Look to the latest in contact center technology

When you've assembled your call center space with workstations for each agent, you'll need comprehensive software to help run your calls. Online vendors offer VoIP software, database and overall call management solutions; browse their types of programs to see what you need.

I recommend: Managers can find VoIP tools and call data handlers at Stratasoft. Interactive Intelligence sells an all-in-one platform for your call center.

Get call center equipment in the form of hardware

In addition to all of your computer tools, you'll want decent hardware like dialers and headsets. Although some of your people might get a kick out of the old 1960s units you've got stored in the closet, it might be better to go with all-new models for better functionality. You can buy new headsets online with connectivity features that will streamline your call center operation.

I recommend: Phone Merchant offers a variety of headsets and call center supplies. Call center equipment providers include communications companies like Ironton Telephone, which offers call center terminals. Call center phone equipment including headsets and dialers can also be found from Call Center Consulting and the Call Center Store.

Find monitoring solutions

This step is different for each business manager. Companies offer high-tech call recording software to evaluate agent calls, but a big disclaimer goes along with these packages: recording calls can be a sticky issue due to ambiguous legality of call recording in general. Call center managers can choose to do "spot-checks" on open lines instead of the call recording option.

I recommend: Call Recording Solutions (CRS) page offers professional call recording equipment and information on the legality of call recording. Accurate Always sells digital Voxida products for handy quality assurance in a call center.