Councils commended for using Telephonetics

July 13, 2017

Three UK local authorities have been commended for using Telephonetics VIP speech automation at this year’s Good Communication Awards.

Wandsworth, Swale and Hertfordshire councils were commended at the awards, which seek to recognise excellence in public sector communications.

Wandsworth Borough Council was recognised for using speech automation to set up direct debit council tax payments.

Since the system was set up, Wandsworth has seen a 40% increase in customers opting to pay by direct debit.

Swale Borough Council was commended for setting up a similar system, which has freed up staff resources and received positive feedback from local residents.

Hertfordshire County Council, meanwhile, was recognised for using speech automation to aid workforce flexibility and promote hot desking.

Using speech automation allows HCC staff who are frequently visiting clients or out on meetings to better communicate whilst away from their desk.

Anthony McKay, Telephonetics VIP chief executive, said: “We pride ourselves on our ability to place our customers at the forefront of all we do.

“We take time to listen to and understand their challenges, before developing a cost effective solution to meet their needs.

“Although our customers didn’t win the Telecoms Innovation award this time round, the fact they were all recognised for their innovative telecoms solutions, highlights the core benefits of automated telephony in a local authority environment.”