IMDispatch is a Perl script that closely emulates
the paradigm of telephone support over the AOL
Instant Messenger service. Using the Net::OSCAR
module to connect to the popular service, the
program signs on as a specified user, queues
queries sent to the screen name, and uses
forwarding to facilitate a conversation with one
of any number of available, designated
representatives. An administrator can instantly
send commands to the program, over the AIM
service, to add and delete screen names from the
list of representatives and monitor the number
available or engaged in a support conversation.
End users no longer have to be tied to their
phones, listening closely for their opportunity to
ask a question, and small organizations no longer
have to pay for an expensive multi-line, toll-free
number.
