Citation
(1999), "Where? When? How?", Work Study, Vol. 48 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/ws.1999.07948bab.005
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 1999, MCB UP Limited
Where? When? How?
Where? When? How?
A revolutionary information service which will solve problems as diverse as, finding the times of high tide in Acapulco, to suggesting birthday gifts for your mother, has been launched by 24-hour direct bank, First Direct. The service, "Octopus", which has been extensively piloted over the last year, promises to answer virtually any query or request put to it by customers over the phone or by e-mail, fax and post. A specialist team of researchers can sort information, edit the choices and present imaginative solutions to fit the precise requirements of customers. Rob Waddell, a researcher for First Direct Octopus comments:
In trials of the service we have helped customers do things they always dreamt of, like chartering a yacht for a weekend hen party, to finding aircraft landing lights for someone's garden. We also serve as a reminder service for everything from prompting someone to arrange an eye test, to when Pavarotti is next performing in the UK.
Initially, to ensure the highest levels of service, First Direct Octopus will be available to a limited number of customers but the service will gradually be rolled out, allowing both customers and non-customers of First Direct to join. In time, the service will be offered through different delivery channels such as a messaging service on mobile phones and pagers. And although Octopus is only available to UK residents, it will address international tasks too. The service and all information Octopus offers is totally unbiased and suppliers cannot pay to have their products or services recommended to customers. "We are not another Yellow Pages or Scoot. All our information is independent and individually tailored, which is why people pay for the service", says Peter Simpson, First Direct's commercial director. "We also give more than just phone numbers; for example, if we suggest someone to tarmac your driveway, we will also provide details of where you can see some local examples of recently completed work". First Direct Octopus is available seven days a week, 365 days a year, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. For further information call 08456 088 088.