Direct Dial in Android

To add a direct dial shortcut on a device running Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich):

1. Press the main app drawer icon (middle icon in system tray)
2. Scroll to “Widgets” folder (on the right) until you reach the “Direct Dial” widget
3. Press and hold the “Direct dial” widget until you see the home screen grid
4. Release the direct dial widget wherever you’d like your widget (shortcut) to appear on the home screen
5. Once you release the widget (shortcut) it will pull up your Contacts list
6. Select Contact you wish to have as a direct dial

From How To: Add A Direct Dial Shortcut To Your Android Homescreen at CultOfAndroid.com