The two-second telephone directory

The consumer simply dials 08 6111 6111, says the name of the company they wish to contact, and if that company is a subscriber to the service, is put through. This single number and speech-recognition technology is designed to speed communication between you and your customers.

A number of companies such as Pick 'n Pay, Momentum and Budget Car Hire are already using the service, while others have expressed interest. Only companies that subscribe can be supported by the system.

Advantages of the system include the fact that because it is based on name recognition, consumers will find it easier to contact you, and your existing number/s remain in place, as does your current telecommunications equipment, including handsets, switchboards, IVR and so on.

Suppliers of Telkom and ICASA-approved equipment only are used and the service is offered by Company Call of Johannesburg and MOLO Africa Speech Technologies of Pretoria.