Abstract: A communication system includes a network switch coupled through a telephone line uniquely associated with each customer for budgeted telephone calling time and amount, either pre-paid or post-paid, the budgeted amount being recorded in the system for calling purposes. A server is coupled to the switch for automated control of the budgeted telephone calls and costs. The server includes a control processor having access to databases for recorded budgeted amounts and call routing. A voice response unit is coupled to the processor and sends messages to the calling customer at the beginning of each budget telephone call indicating remaining budgeted telephone calling time and amount available to the calling purposes. The processor debits the customer account by an amount reflecting the call costs as the call proceeds. A voice message advises the calling customer when the available time and costs for the budgeted telephone call will terminate.

Abstract: Intelligent call forwarding is implemented through an intelligent network. The intelligent network includes a Service Switching Point (SSP), a Service Control Point (SCP), and a Service Management System (SMS). A call to a network subscriber is routed to the SSP which is used to detect Call Forwarding "triggers"--conditions which require the SSP to initiate selective Call Forwarding service. When a Call Forwarding trigger is detected the SSP passes the calling party's number to the SCP and requests call handling instructions from the SCP. The SCP provides the call handling instructions, as provisioned by the subscriber, to the SSP, and the SSP then forwards the call in accordance with the instructions. The SMS formulates and sends commands to the SCP for such purposes as changing the stored subscriber instructions or updating service features.

Abstract: A Call Message Delivery system (CDS) enables an attendant to control the delivery of a recorded call message from a caller to a specified party at a called station. The CDS alerts the attendant at a delivery time, selected by either the caller or the system. When the attendant determines that the specified party has answered the call at the called station, the caller's recorded call message is outputted to the specified party. If the specified party is not available, the attendant may schedule the call for a later delivery or may forward the call to another station specified by the answering party at the called station.