Why the FCC's Autodialer Ban Will Be Great for Innovation

Source: 
Author: 
Coverage Type: 

[Commentary] For you and me, the end of autodialing means more peaceful mealtimes. For telemarketers and market researchers determined to stick to outdated models, it will likely mean the end of their businesses. But for those who innovate instead of digging in their heels, it's a blessing. Because here's the thing: Federal Communications Commission autodialer ban or not, the kind of scattershot, mass phone-calling approach was a terrible way to sell products and conduct market research. People hate those calls.

Ultimately, the FCC's ruling reflects how, with a world of shopping options and information available online, today's customers are smart and savvy, and they have a powerful voice. People today feel swamped by demands on their time, requests for their opinions, and "special offers" they never asked for in the first place. The FCC's ruling sends the unambiguous message that today, if you don't change, the law will force you to change.

[Andrew Reid is founder and president of Vision Critical, a customer intelligence software company]


Why the FCC's Autodialer Ban Will Be Great for Innovation