Call Center Operations Management Handbook and Study Guide

Call center operations is a specialized management field with its own theories and terminology. The fundamental dynamics of the randomly arriving call center workload create multiple challenges in the areas of forecasting, staffing, technology and facilities management. A firm understanding of these challenges is required for a call center leader to accomplish the objectives of the organization and satisfy customers.

The Call Center Operations Management Handbook and Study Guide provides this solid foundation through an examination of key performance indicators, call center planning and management processes, call center technology and facilities management. The guide begins with an explanation of service level and response time — key objectives that measure the accessibility of the center. A detailed examination of other key performance indicators follows. The third section of the guide provides an in-depth discussion of the planning and management processes upon which call center operations depend, including forecasting, staffing and scheduling. The guide then transitions from processes to technology with an integrated look at the technologies present in the best of today’s centers. The guide closes with site selection, call center design, health and safety issues, and disaster recovery principles.

Brad Cleveland is President and CEO of Incoming Calls Management Institute (ICMI), based in Annapolis, Maryland. Recognized for his pioneering work in call center management methodologies, he has delivered keynotes, seminars and consulting services in over 25 countries. Brad is co-author of the industry’s best-selling book, Call Center Management on Fast Forward: Succeeding in Today’s Dynamic Inbound Environment.

Debbie Harne is Director of Educational Services for ICMI, and spearheaded the launch of ICMI Membership, a network of management professionals from over 40 countries. With a background in training and education, Debbie has been instrumental in developing ICMI’s technology-based educational services, and has responsibilities