Live From London: TPS/FPS Compliance Software Debuts

Birmingham-based U.K. Data IT Ltd. has introduced Datagard and Callgard, software designed to automate compliance with the U.K.’s mandatory Fax and Telephone Preference Service regulations.

Richard Melling, sales and marketing director for UK Data IT, said yesterday the service–which went live March 1–has been approved by the U.K. Direct Marketing Association, which maintains the country’s TPS/FPS files.

The software, which has been in development for a year, combines database and call center technology. Calls and faxes from subscribing call centers go through a switch on the Datagard/Callgard system, which houses a copy of the TPS/FPS database. Listed numbers are barred when recognized, while non-listed numbers are connected.

There is no time delay on the call center end, which does not need to give reps extra training to implement the system. If a number is listed on TPS, the call is disconnected and the rep hears a 10-second message: “The number you have dialed (number dialed) does not wish to receive direct marketing calls.”

The system is hardwired by U.K. Data at each subscribing call center location, and calls are routed as they would normally be through the British Telecom network.

The U.K. TPS file currently has over one million names, while FPS has over 200,000. Since compliance became mandatory by law last May, TPS has received over 20,000 complaints from consumers and businesses who are listed but still receiving unsolicited calls or faxes, said Melling.

Prelaunch, 30 organizations tested the system, which has been implemented at 300 call centers, accounting for 5,000 phone lines. Both large–1,000-plus seats–and small call centers tested the software, which is maintained by the company. Subscribers pay a fee of 10 to 50 pounds per line per month, with the rate based on the total number of lines at the center.

The TPS file is updated daily. Melling said his firm’s file is currently updated at least every 28 days, moving towards daily updates when TPS begins providing its internal updates online.

While the company has not yet discussed the possibility of a U.S. launch with U.S. teleservices providers, Melling said he has talked to U.S. DMA representatives, who are interested in the service.

The next step, he said, will be to connect its larger clients’ internal “do not call” files, in addition to TPS, to the system. The possibility also exists for the E-Mail Preference Service to be connected to Datagard.