Introduction:
iPlum is a mobile application that provides users with a dedicated second phone number for business calls and texts. Professionals download iPlum to maintain a clear separation between their personal and work communications on a single device. This VoIP solution is designed for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers who require a professional business line without the need for a separate physical handset. The primary value of iPlum lies in its ability to organize communication, project a professional image, and enhance privacy.
Setting Up a Dedicated Business Line
Users begin by downloading the iPlum app and selecting a new phone number from an available pool of area codes. The setup process in iPlum involves verifying your existing mobile number and configuring basic calling preferences. Once completed, your iPlum number is active and ready to receive calls and SMS messages. This entire setup is managed from within the application, eliminating the need for any additional hardware. The user can immediately start distributing their new iPlum contact details to clients and colleagues.
Managing Incoming Calls and Auto-Attendant
When a call comes in to your iPlum number, the app uses Caller ID to display the business line, keeping it distinct from personal calls. Users can answer these calls directly through the iPlum interface. A key feature is the customizable auto-attendant, which greets callers with a professional message and can offer menu options. Users configure these greetings and menus within the app's settings to direct callers to the appropriate department or voicemail, effectively mimicking a small business phone system.
Sending and Receiving Business SMS
Beyond voice calls, iPlum supports full SMS and MMS functionality for its dedicated number. This allows users to send and receive text messages with clients directly through the iPlum application. The workflow is straightforward: users open the iPlum app, navigate to the messages section, and select a contact or number to message. All business-related text communication is contained within iPlum, preventing it from mixing with personal texts in your device's default messaging app and creating an organized record.
Configuring Custom Call Routing Rules
iPlum offers advanced control over how incoming calls are handled through customizable routing rules. Users access the "Call Handling" section within the iPlum settings to define these parameters. For instance, you can set iPlum to route calls to different numbers based on the time of day, sending calls to a colleague during off-hours or to a main office line during a lunch break. This ensures important business calls are never missed and are always directed appropriately.
Utilizing Voicemail Transcription and Recordings
When a caller leaves a voicemail on your iPlum line, the app provides both an audio recording and a text transcription. Users open the iPlum app to see a list of voicemails, each marked with the caller's information and timestamp. Tapping on a voicemail allows you to play the audio or quickly read the automated transcript to grasp the message's content without listening to the entire recording. This iPlum feature saves significant time and allows for triaging important messages while in meetings.
Maintaining a Separate Business Contact List
The application includes a dedicated contact management system specifically for your business communications. Users manually add contacts within iPlum or import them from a file. This creates a segregated address book that is only accessible through the iPlum app, ensuring client details remain separate from your personal contacts. When making a call or sending a text through iPlum, you select from this specific business contact list, reinforcing the separation of professional and personal life.
Key Features
Provides a dedicated second phone number for business use on your existing smartphone.
Includes a customizable auto-attendant with menu options for incoming calls.
Supports full SMS and MMS messaging from your business number.
Offers advanced call routing rules based on time of day or caller ID.
Delivers voicemail recordings with automated text transcription.
Maintains a separate contact list within the app for business associates.
