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After-Call Work (ACW)

Glossary

What is After-Call Work (ACW)

After Call Work (ACW) is a totality of actions agent has to accomplish after the call, includign putting customer data into the customer card, updating system, changing status and setting follow-up conditions.

After call work is one of the most important call center metrics, as it points to how much time agent is unable to take further calls as he is working with the data from the previous one. After Call Work is measured both for certain agent and as average for the team.

Synonyms for definition After-Call Work (ACW)

  • Post-call processing
  • Call wrap-up
  • Call documentation
  • Call follow-up
  • Call notes/notation
  • Call logging
  • Call dispositions
  • Post-call activities
  • Call summarization
  • After-call tasks
  • Call data entry
  • Call coding
  • Call closeout
  • Follow-up actions
  • Subsequent call work

The key idea is that ACW refers to any work agents need to complete immediately after a customer call, such as updating records, logging notes, scheduling follow-ups, etc. The synonyms capture the concept of tasks performed after the live call interaction.

FAQ about After-Call Work (ACW)

Why is ACW time important?

ACW time is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it allows agents to document the interaction accurately, ensuring that customer information and requests are captured correctly. Secondly, it enables agents to complete any necessary post-call tasks, such as updating customer records, scheduling follow-ups, or escalating issues to the appropriate departments. By dedicating time to ACW, agents can provide a better overall customer experience and improve service quality.

What activities are typically performed during ACW?

Common ACW activities include updating customer relationship management (CRM) systems with call notes and details, sending follow-up emails or documentation to customers, processing orders or requests, scheduling appointments or callbacks, and conducting any research or investigation required to resolve outstanding issues.

How long should ACW time last?

The ideal ACW time can vary depending on the complexity of the customer interaction and the specific tasks required. Generally, it should be long enough for the agent to complete all necessary follow-up actions efficiently, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. However, excessive ACW time can impact productivity and overall operational efficiency, so it’s essential to strike a balance.

Can ACW time be tracked and monitored?

Yes, most contact center software and workforce management tools have features that allow for tracking and monitoring ACW time. This data can provide valuable insights into agent productivity, workload distribution, and areas for process improvement. Supervisors can use this information to identify opportunities for agent coaching, training, or workflow optimization.

What are some best practices for effective ACW management?

To optimize ACW time and improve efficiency, consider implementing the following best practices:

Provide clear guidelines and training on ACW procedures and expectations

Encourage agents to take concise and accurate notes during interactions

Integrate CRM systems and workflow automation tools to streamline post-call tasks

Monitor ACW time regularly and provide feedback to agents

Identify and address any recurring issues or bottlenecks that may be causing excessive ACW time

Promote a culture of continuous improvement and encourage agents to share feedback and suggestions

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