I have started to use Skype, but found the plug-in that it installs for the Address Book application was not so good. For instance, it did not fix numbers that start with 0, which Skype did not like, as well as numbers that started with a leading number like 1 or 2.
I found this thread on the forus, which helped, but realised it needed to be updated for use in the UK -- most numbers are more than 10 digits, including the leading 0. 99% of my land-line numbers in Address Book start with a leading 0, and the rest with a plus sign; 25% of my mobile numbers start with a leading 0, and the rest with a plus sign.
So I fixed the script (view new script) to deal with all of these. If any number has a leading 0, then it will be dialled with a +44. If it has the +44, then it will be dialled with a +44. To get the script running, follow the instructions in the thread. Also, you can change the 44 to your own code.
So now the extra bit. I wanted to be able to also call the contact's computer using their
Skype name (ie, Petersmac). The script now takes care of that. To get this function to work, here's what you need to do.
Go to Address Book and edit a card or template. Add a new phone number, but instead of calling it work or home, go down the list to custom. Now enter as a new label, the case sensitive name Skype. Enter the contact's Skype name where the number would normally go, and save. The next time you need to add a Skype name, the label should be there.
Now all you have to do is click the contact number/Skype name label, and go to the Skype dialler.
[robg adds: I haven't tested this one...]
Mac OS X Hints
http://hints.macworld.com/article.php?story=20051221143702865