How to set PI caps & day-parting

The fastest way to waste PI budget is buying more transfers than you can answer. Caps + day-parting are the controls that protect intake and keep performance stable.

Start with seats, not spend

If you have 2 seats, don’t buy volume sized for 8. Your cap should be based on answer rate and average call time, not “how many you want.”

Seat count

How many intake staff can answer transfers in real time?

Answer rate

If answer rate is low, fix staffing/hours before you scale volume.

Call handling time

Longer calls mean fewer transfers per hour without overflow.

Caps: a simple ramp plan

A typical ramp is conservative on purpose. Example (adjust to your team):

  • Week 1: daily cap = 3–5 transfers
  • Week 2: increase only if answer rate + intake quality stays stable
  • Week 3+: scale in small steps, not jumps

Day-parting: run when intake is strongest

“All day” delivery windows often reduce quality because staffing varies. Run transfers only during predictable, well-staffed blocks.

If you must add hours, add them one block at a time and re-check performance each time you expand.

Buffer time reduces disputes

Many firms set a connected-call buffer time (often 30–120 seconds) to reduce instant hangups and misroutes. This should be part of your billable definition.

Match caps to case type

Some case types are naturally lower volume and more selective. If you want stricter programs (truck/commercial, medical malpractice), expect lower flow and tighter screening.

Request PI routing setup

Send states, intake hours (time zone), seats, and a starting cap. We’ll confirm availability and recommended controls.