Dial-by-Name Directories

Dial-by-Name Directories

What Is a Dial-by-Name Directory?


A Dial-by-Name Directory allows callers to search for and connect with users by entering the first few letters of their name using a phone keypad. This is especially useful in larger organizations where remembering extensions is impractical.

Example: A caller reaches a company’s main line, selects the option to use the directory, and dials “527” to reach someone named “Jared.”


Creating a New Directory

1. From the main menu on the left, go to: "UC Admin" → "Call Control Apps" → "Dial-by-Name Directories"



2. Select “+ Add Directory” in the upper right corner.



3. Complete the form with the following required information:
  1. Assigned Account: Select the account this directory belongs to. This field only appears if you have not already selected an account from the main dropdown at the top right of the page.
  2. Label: Enter a name used for internal identification (e.g., "Main Office Directory").



4. Select “Add” in the lower-right to create the directory.

5. Once the directory is created, you’ll be redirected to a page where you can further customize it (refer to Step 3 in the Management section below).


Managing Existing Directories

1. From the main menu on the left, go to: "UC Admin" → "Call Control Apps" → "Dial-by-Name Directories"



2. From the list of existing directories, select the name of the directory you wish to edit to open it's settings.



3. You'll have access to several configuration tabs:
  1. Edit
    1. Label, Description, and Notes
    2. Extension Number and Dialing Address (the unique number that can be dialed from anywhere in the platform by any phone or extension)
    3. Directory Entries – Add or remove individuals from the directory and define their searchable names
    4. Exit Destination – Where the call is sent if the caller doesn’t select a name (e.g., main menu or receptionist)
    5. CDR Tags – apply metadata tags to help with reporting and analytics
    6. Webhooks – For integrating call events with external systems (e.g., CRM)
  2. Dependency Tree
    1. View how and where the directory is used in the overall call flow.
    2. Helpful for troubleshooting and understanding its impact on routing.

Alert
Important Reminder:
  1. Be sure to click "Update"  at the bottom of the screen to save your changes before navigating away.
  2. Once you are done making changes, click the "Apply Changes"  button on the left to make sure the system updates properly.
    1. Note: You can either apply changes immediately or schedule a date/time for the system to update to avoid interfering with business hours.