Method of providing message service for limited access telecommunications

Abstract

The present invention is a method of operating a telecommunication system for providing a limited access message service to a plurality of end users. Existing telecommunication lines with a telecommunication switching network and a computerized central switching station are used to establish a billing system for sponsors and to form an account for each sponsor purchasing subsequent usage relating to one third party telephone number, the usage being based on a predetermined bulk rate for consumption of user time over a preset time period. It also includes distributing a user unit to each of a plurality of end users for calling the one third party telephone number. Each end-user is given the third party telephone number, and at least one unique personal identification number. In connection with the billing system, the computerized central switching station is programmed to permit a call of a preset message limit to be made by each end user to the third party phone number provided, based on the distributed user unit, accessed only by the unique personal identification number provided. In response to an end user calling the third party telephone number, a predetermined message is provided in accordance with a preset limit, and the call is terminated and an appropriate time amount is charged to the account of the sponsor. The message record of each consumed user unit is captured by the system and may be used by the sponsor for data base marketing.