Importance

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Abstract

A system and method for providing directory assistance service and information in a multiple service provider and a local number portability environment. An operator services system (OPSS) (15) is functionally connected to a first and a second database (24, 26). Preferably, the first database (24) is a directory assistance database, and the second database (26) is a directory assistance-local number portability (DA-LNP) database. Upon receipt of a request for a directory number associated with the name of a party, the OPSS (15) makes a first query of the first database (24) for first search results relating to the name of the party. Preferably, the OPSS (15) also concurrently makes a second query, but of the second database (26) for second search results relating to the name of the party. The first and second databases are searched based on the name of the party. The first and second search results are provided to the OPSS (15). In response to receipt of the first and second search results, the OPSS (15) consolidates both search results into consolidated search results. Preferably, the OPSS (15) eliminates any duplicative entry between the first and second search results. The OPSS (15) then provides the consolidated search results to a display (21). The consolidated search results are displayed and are used to provide the directory assistance service in response to the request for the name of the party.

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First Claim