Automatic Call Distribution (ACD) is a system that efficiently routes incoming calls to a group of agents, placing callers in a queue with hold music or announcements to prevent lost calls. It's especially beneficial in call centers, where it allows multiple agents to assist customers without waiting for specific individuals. Key features include call logging, advanced routing, performance tracking and CRM integration, all designed to enhance customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.
An agent group, also known as automatic call distribution (ACD), is a system that routes incoming calls to a specific group of agents. Before connecting to an agent, callers are placed inside a queue, allowing agents to deal with incoming calls without losing other callers to busy signals or unanswered phones. While waiting, callers hear music and pre-recorded announcements. Agent groups can be monitored using a number of monitoring methods.
Benefits
Agents can be apart of many ACD groups
An agent can use the CID of the ACD when calling customers
SIP Desktop phones buttons can be programmed for agents to log in and out of groups
Managers can track agent performance
Recordings can be reviewed by managers
WebRTC user portal, make and receive inbound calls
Agent groups are often found in offices that handle high-volume customer calls from callers who do not need to speak with a specific person but who require assistance from any of multiple persons, like sales representatives and airline reservation attendants. Agent groups have a wide range of features that improve agent response time and also outputs agent reports.
In 2026, a modern phone system must go well beyond basic calling. Core requirements now include built-in AI for smarter call handling and transcription, real-time analytics dashboards for visibility and control, flexible auto attendants to route calls efficiently, seamless Microsoft Teams integration, and robust mobile apps that support hybrid and remote work. Clear separation between business and personal calls protects work-life balance, while reliable white-glove support ensures these capabilities work smoothly in real-world environments as communication needs evolve.
Legacy phone systems may still work, but they often come with hidden costs, limited scalability, and little support for hybrid work. Aging hardware, ongoing maintenance, and rigid infrastructure can quietly hold businesses back as they grow. Cloud-based VoIP systems remove these constraints by reducing telephony expenses, improving flexibility, and enabling teams to communicate seamlessly from anywhere. For many organizations, modernizing business telephony is no longer optional, it is a practical step toward efficiency and resilience.
A streamlined integration connects the Vodia PBX with the ElevenLabs Voice AI Platform using a lightweight IVR JavaScript script and native SIP REFER for call transfers. Audio and call control are handled entirely through standard SIP signaling, while all conversational logic, prompts, voice selection, and routing rules are configured in the ElevenLabs dashboard. This approach removes the need for webhooks or WebSocket connections and keeps the PBX side intentionally minimal, making the deployment clean and production-ready.