Abstract: An intelligent network architecture is employed to handle calls placed to a network subscriber who has changed telephone numbers from an old telephone number to a new telephone number. In a preferred embodiment two call handling procedures are available: a call forwarding procedure, in which calls to the old number are automatically forwarded to the new number; and a messaging procedure, in which an announcement is played to the caller and the caller is invited to leave a message for the subscriber. Through a phone call the subscriber may switch call handling procedures, change the forwarding number, and/or change the messaging announcement.

Abstract: Messages can be stored in a switched telephone network for later forwarding. A telephone call from a calling party telephone station being directed to a destination party telephone number is switched to a service switching point. The telephone call is monitored to determine a busy or unanswered condition at the destination party telephone number. A network database is queried to retrieve message recording instructions for the calling party. A message from the calling party is stored within the network database. The stored message is forwarded at a later date and time to one or more destination party telephone numbers. A destination party can access the message if authorized, and can record a comment onto the message. A destination party can forward the message and added comment back to the calling party or to one or more third parties.