The next concept we’re going to cover in the 101 series is VoiceXML. Essentially VoiceXML (also known as VXML) is the coding language that allows us to create IVR applications. What HTML enables in a visual browser, VoiceXML enables in an IVR application: users can navigate the system using their phone instead of a computer.
This is the programming language that we here at Plum support, and here’s why: just about anyone with a web development skill set can get started creating voice applications right away. Here’s another reason it’s great: VoiceXML is an open standard programming language. That means that a developer can create an IVR application that isn’t tied to just one vendor. Before VoiceXML became the ubiquitous open standard for developing IVR applications, vendors used proprietary programming languages to create IVR call flows. This was a bad deal for the company that implemented IVR because vendors charged a fortune for changes to the application and you were stuck with their hardware unless you wanted to build the application from scratch again. VoiceXML gives you more control – that’s why Plum is a VoiceXML Certified Vendor.
If that wasn’t enough good news about VoiceXML, here’s more: as a VXML developer you have many resources at your fingertips. VoiceXML Forum is a very comprehensive source. And if you have a question about a Plum application, you can join our support forum for free and speak directly to the experts.
There you have it. VoiceXML – the critical element to creating an effective IVR application. If you’re still unclear about this topic take a look in the forum, or even better contact us and we’ll be happy to answer all your questions.
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