Abstract: A remote access system between a remote client and an office telephone via a packet network on a point-to-point basis is provided. The office center includes a web server having a web page stored thereon and a PBX system. During a remote session, incoming communications to the PBX continue to flow to the office telephone and then are routed to the remote client. The remote client is able to view, manage and control the events as if the worker was at the office. Alternatively, the office telephone may establish a remote session with the remote client on a point-to-point basis such that all communications to the remote client flow to the office workstation. Additionally, the office telephone and remote client may have connectivity devices coupled to them so data from the connectivity devices can be viewed, managed and controlled at a remote location.

Abstract: A communication device for visually impaired persons assists the user to determine the function of each key and input on the modern-day device. The communication device includes a plurality of surface sensors that when activated, guide the user in call placement, routing, control options and general communications. The device may include a vibration feature that causes an area on the device to vibrate. A whisper audio feature may audibly coach the user when sensed areas are touched. Additionally, a networked device may provide third party assistance to the user. The techniques of the various embodiments provide effective guidance without disrupting the user, the called party or others in proximity to the user, such as in an office-type environment.

Abstract: The methods for handling a communication request received for a former user of a communication system include sending updated address book information for the former user to an initiator's address book, redirecting the communication request to the forwarding address for the former user, redirecting the communication request to an assigned replacement of the former user, or any combination of the above. Additionally, the replacement's address book information may be sent to the initiator's address book for updating. In one embodiment, a replication of the former user's address book is retained to assist in determining how to handle the received communication request.

Abstract: A communication device for visually impaired persons assists the user to determine the function of each key and input on the modern-day device. The communication device includes a plurality of surface sensors that when activated, guide the user in call placement, routing, control options and general communications. The device may include a vibration feature that causes an area on the device to vibrate. A whisper audio feature may audibly coach the user when sensed areas are touched. Additionally, a networked device may provide third party assistance to the user. The techniques of the various embodiments provide effective guidance without disrupting the user, the called party or others in proximity to the user, such as in an office-type environment.

Abstract: A feature server, e.g., a stored program controller, processes calls to a subscriber's main directory number in a packet network by submitting a subscriber-administered questionnaire to callers. The information in the questionnaire, when completed by the calling party, can be used to automatically route the call or to reposition the call in the incoming call queue. Alternatively, the completed, or even partially completed questionnaire may be displayed in a “pop up” window to a subscriber's operator who can then use the information to assist the caller or, without need of answering the call, to reposition the call within the queue or to divert the call to another directory number. In addition, information previously provided in a questionnaire completed by a caller is stored so that when the caller calls again, the stored information may be employed to more efficiently process the call.

Abstract: A feature server, e.g., a stored program controller, processes calls to a subscriber's main directory number in a packet network by submitting a subscriber-administered questionnaire to callers. The information in the questionnaire, when completed by the calling party, can be used to automatically route the call or to reposition the call in the incoming call queue. Alternatively, the completed, or even partially completed questionnaire may be displayed in a “pop up” window to a subscriber's operator who can then use the information to assist the caller or, without-need of answering the call, to reposition the call within the queue or to divert the call to another directory number. In addition, information previously provided in a questionnaire completed by a caller is stored so that when the caller calls again, the stored information may be employed to more efficiently process the call.

Abstract: In processing of VoIP calls, a called facility, prior to the cut through of ringing that would alert personnel to the presence of an incoming call, transmits previously stored information that identifies the persons at the called facility that are authorized to handle particular types of calls. In response to the receipt of caller-ID information, the called facility queries a database to determine whether (a) the caller is known and, if so, whether there are particular call handling instructions stored for this caller; and (b) whether the called facility is classified as blocked from participating in called party identification service. If the database response indicates that the called facility participates in called party identification service, the data base sends to the caller, before the call is answered, a list of persons at the called facility who are authorized to answer the call and, advantageously, some indication of what that persons area of responsibility may be.

Abstract: A backplane slot configuration and a bridge card for expanding the expansion slots of one system to include the expansion slots of an adjacent electrically separate system within the same cabinet, and bridging the expansion buses with minimal change of electrical characteristics, particularly impedance, across the bridge. Adjacent end slots are spaced apart according to the relevant specification, and each slot set is configured so that the backplane expansion buses span contiguous slots and the expansion buses include the adjacent end slot.