ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Computer telephony integration

Computer telephony integration (CTI) is when a computer and a phone work together like good friends. Just like you and your best friend might work together to do something, a computer and a phone can work together to help you talk to people more easily.

The computer and phone talk to each other using special software, like a secret language that only they understand. This software helps the computer know when someone is calling the phone so it can do different things to help you answer the call.

For example, the software might make your computer screen pop up with the person's name and phone number when they call you. This way, you know who is calling before you answer the phone.

The software can also help you make phone calls directly from your computer, without even needing to pick up the phone. You can just click a button on your screen and the computer and phone will work together to make the call.

Another really cool thing the software can do is keep track of when you talk to people on the phone. This helps you remember who you talked to, when you talked to them, and what you talked about. It's like having a super smart logger that remembers everything for you.

Overall, computer telephony integration is a fancy way of saying that a computer and a phone are working together to help you talk to people. It makes it easier, faster, and more organized.