Indirect Access Calls

Indirect Access (IDA) is a method of making an outbound call through a third-party provider, without directly dialling the target number. Such calls will be priced according to the billing settings of the provider, instead of the normal rate for calling the destination directly from the caller's location. Typically, this is done to reduce the overall cost of international calls and other typically expensive types of call, when made in sufficient volume.

There are two methods available for making indirect access calls:

• Single-stage IDA: Requires the caller to be using a network that supports IDA Codes, which are 4- or 5-digit numbers keyed in before the regular phone number. If the CLI of the person making the call has been registered, their call will be directed through a provider (such as TelXL) associated with the code, with the cost of the call based on that provider's tariff.
• Two-stage IDA: Requires the caller to dial a number associated with an IDA-enabled service. When the call reaches the IDA part of the service, the following occurs:
  • If the caller is an operator, the system will check that they have been authorised to make outdialler calls by the associated customer. If so they will hear a dial tone, prompting them to enter the intended phone number. The resulting outdialler call will be charged according to the default IDA tariff associated with that customer.
  • If the caller is external, their phone number will be checked against a list of registered CLIs belonging to the customer responsible. If their number is registered, they will hear a dial tone prompting them to enter the intended phone number. The resulting outbound call will be charged according to the tariff assigned to their CLI.