What Is BLF?

BLF stands for Busy Lamp Field.

A BLF is a light, a button, or an on-screen icon on an IP phone or softphone app that indicates whether another person, extension or phone line is available, ringing or busy. This is a useful real-time feature for busy office environments, remote workers, or receptionists who need to see when colleagues are available, without the need to physically visit their desk.

BLF On IP Phones

BLF and presence indication features are fully supported by the Yay.com phone system. Some BLF-enabled devices such as some Grandstream or Snom IP phone models, also make it possible to pick up incoming calls for colleagues by pressing the relevant BLF buttons or function keys. Typically this BLF functionality needs to first be enabled on the IP phone, which can be done via the web interface specific to that phone.

BLF On Softphone Apps

The Yay.com softphone app supports presence indication as standard ensuring it is possible to view the availability of colleagues and staff whether located on or off-site.

What Is a Typical BLF Status?

Common Busy Lamp Field (BLF) statuses include the following:

• Green - This person or phone extension is free (idle) and available to receive a phone call.
• Amber - This person or phone extension is busy and is on an active call.
• Flashing Amber - This person's phone or phone extension is ringing.
• Red - This person or phone extension is unavailable or has enabled 'Do Not Disturb'.

What Are Common BLF Uses?

Common uses for BLF statuses include:

• View Availability - See when co-workers are free.
• Pick Up Calls - Pick up inbound calls for colleagues or departments.
• Transfer Calls - Send calls to available colleagues using BLF keys.
• Speed Dials - Quickly call colleagues using BLF keys instead of typing your co-worker's full phone extension number.

Phone system BLF features can be beneficial for improving efficiency both for staff and for callers.

If you have any further questions about Busy Lamp Fields, please don't hesitate to contact our friendly Support Team.