1 Introduction

  • Article

The Microsoft Telephony Application Programming Interface (TAPI) enables implementation of communications applications ranging from voice mail to call centers with multiple agents and switches. The Microsoft Telephony programming model abstracts communications control from device control, freeing end-user applications and device manufacturers from the need to conform to the others' requirements. Using this model, an end-user or server application does not require detailed information about device control and the device does not need to be tailored to the application. Applications and devices can undergo innovation and change independently. Possible TAPI applications can include:

  • Basic voice calls on the public switched telephone network (PSTN).

  • Call center applications for tracking multiple agents.

  • Private branch exchange (PBX) control.

  • Interactive voice response (IVR) computing systems.

  • Voice mail.

  • Detailed phone device control.

Sections 1.5, 1.8, 1.9, 2, and 3 of this specification are normative. All other sections and examples in this specification are informative.