Without an effective means of communication, a message can be easily misunderstood, which gives way to frustration, or even disaster. For businesses, it's imperative to have an efficient and reliable communications system for talking with customers, reaching remote employees, and collaborating with partners.
Enter VoiP. Short for Voice over Internet Protocol, it refers to a group of technologies that convert voice sounds into digital signals, which are translated into Internet Protocol (IP) packets. This provides businesses with several advantages, a few of which include:
Reduced cost
The affordability that comes with VoIP is what makes it so attractive. Once you switch from public-switched telephone networks, long-distance calls become cheaper. Instead of calls being processed across conventional telecommunication subscriptions, they are routed through the Internet or through private data lines. Expect to enjoy other financial benefits such as:
- Cost per phone call: Per-minute fees add up quickly especially when long-distance or international calls are made using landlines or mobile phones. VoIP applications make it possible to make calls between devices connected to the internet, eliminating the cost of long-distance phone calls. You can also pay a low, flat monthly fee and make unlimited calls, including international calls.
- Operational costs: Because everything can be done using the data network, there is no need for separate networks for data and voice communications. Phones with VoIP technology can be managed from desktops, eliminating the monthly cost associated with traditional phone lines.
- Infrastructure cost: VoIP greatly reduces infrastructure expenditure. For example, while traditional PBX and key systems would require you to pay more for telephone extensions, with VoIP you can run these extensions on your computers instead.
Efficient conferencing
If you regularly correspond with people in various locations, this system is ideal for conferencing. VoIP is more efficient than conventional phones because it utilizes packet switching that helps data travel over the Internet more efficiently, thus enhancing better connectivity and overall call quality. Furthermore, you’ll be able to check participant status, mute certain individuals, and use "hand raises" when participants ask questions.
Use it anywhere
Portability is another key feature that companies find appealing. VoIP is perfect for workers who are constantly on-the-go. As long as you have broadband Internet connection, you can log into your VoIP phone from anywhere around the world. You won’t even have to give out your cell phone number since VoIP gives you number mobility, meaning that you can bring your VoIP phones/smartphones with you when traveling and use the same number everywhere.
Increased productivity
VoIP increases the overall productivity of an organization by allowing its employees to multi-task without interruption. It also allows the organization to allocate funds usually spent on traditional phone bills to other aspects of the business. VoIP allows you to sync all your devices so they ring at the same time. Your landline and cell phone will ring simultaneously before either go to voicemail, allowing you to take calls wherever and whenever. This helps you respond quickly to important calls even when you are out of the office. Users will also be able to attach documents, conduct virtual meetings, and share data via video conferencing.
Preparing for VoIP
Keep in mind that adding VoIP to the company’s network on top of everything else will definitely strain IT resources. So before installing your VoIP system, consider conducting a call volume study. This determines what additional stress will be placed on the network and what, if any, upgrades need to made.
Don’t forget to assess how capable your current IT staff will be in supporting the VoIP system, as well as what technical support you’ll need from the VoIP vendor. Failing to assess current network capabilities is one of the biggest mistakes companies make when implementing a VoIP system.
VoIP has revolutionized the way small- and medium-sized businesses communicate. From affordability to portability, the numerous benefits of utilizing VoIP make it an attractive option for businesses looking to gain a competitive edge. Let Founders Technology Group help you implement a suitable VoIP solution based on your business’s needs. Get in touch with us via phone or email today!