IT and Society: Information on govt services will get available via phone calls

“Open communications”, a subsidiary of “Central Telegraph” company is ready to introduce a technology which is said to enable citizens to make inquiries on the list of documents necessary for getting a public service and receive information on the status of inquiries via phone calls, even without Internet connection. Its Director General Alexei Shcheglov informs that the possibility of this technology introduction is being discussed with developers of govt services portal and other concerned parties, while positive feedback has been already received.

This innovation employs speech recognition and synthesis technologies and voice authorization which allow citizens to get information and enter web personal office. This is conducted automatically without switching to the operator. “Thus, it will take you 10-15 seconds to solve the problem or receive a response to your question”, Alexei Sheglov said.

“Open communications” staff is sure that the innovation will make electronic govt services more accessible for the Russians, especially those who don’t have Internet access, and relieve call centers, whose operators in conditions of portal’s growing popularity will fail to cope with inquiries. Alexei Shcheglov says it may take just half a year to implement the technology.