Communications hub for a Walk-a-thon?

) February 6th, 2012

I run the logistics for a large Walk-a-thon that maintains a communications hub during the event. For years, we set up 4 four phones which were given a hunt line (meaning, a call would come into the 1st phone and then bounce to the second if the first phone was busy.) The problem with this is that it’s a temporary location. Last year, we introduced a Skype call center that greatly upgraded the operation but we had difficulty with dropped calls and crashing computers. Any suggestions about other call center programs or any other communication options where volunteers can call in all along the route and receive instruction?

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4 Answers

I’d think any of the big mobile carriers would have an off the shelf solution for you – something involving using the cell phones people own perhaps. It’s a pretty basic function of switching – if this line is busy, call this one.

6rant6 (13700

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With a Google Voice number, you could have incoming calls ring four phones simultaneously.

You get a free number from Google. It’s not attached to any phone. You bring your existing phones. In the Voice settings, you tell it what actual phone(s) to ring.

jaytkay (25810

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Don’t know if you’re still looking but grasshopper could probably pull off what you’re looking at. And it’s cheap.

funkdaddy (17777

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Depending on the exact nature of the program, you may want to call in your local chapter of the ARRL. They like any opportunity to field their radios.

Nullo (22009

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