BellSouth recently announced that it is trialing an enhanced business category search service as part of its Operator Services portfolio. BellSouth?? EasyBusinessFinder(SM) service allows landline callers to initiate detailed, keyword searches for local businesses with the convenience of dialing 411.
The trial will run in the Atlanta 678 area code for 90 days and will allow detailed searches similar to the yellow pages via a live operator. For example, a customer who is looking for a pizza parlor that delivers, a tire dealer that sells a certain brand of tires or a florist that specializes in orchids can now search over the phone using these specific criteria. BellSouth EasyBusinessFinder service will deliver the business phone number to the customer based on his or her request.
"BellSouth EasyBusinessFinder takes directory assistance to the next level by combining the power of an Internet-type search with the clarity of a live operator," said Gloria Reese, president - Operator Services, BellSouth. "Customers can now search by business category over the phone, providing a fast, easy and convenient way to connect with the businesses they seek."
When customers dial 411 for Directory Assistance, BellSouth EasyBusinessFinder service will be listed as an optional feature on the system. After selecting BellSouth EasyBusinessFinder service, a live operator will greet the caller and assist in finding the name and phone number of the specific business type requested.
The service will be available 24/7 during the trial. BellSouth will evaluate customer feedback and statistics collected during the trial to determine future deployment plans for BellSouth EasyBusinessFinder service.
