Unique Original Articles » Small Business VoIP - Does it Make Sense to Switch?

VoIP phone systems are flexible, multifunctional systems that reduce telecommunication budgets without compromising on voice quality or features. In fact, traditional phone systems cannot match the capabilities of VoIP with features such as virtual phone numbers, voice mail and fax forwarding to email, fixed mobile convergence, and more.

In spite of the strides in VoIP technology, many small businesses are wary of replacing traditional phone systems with VoIP. Their concerns are poor voice quality, insecure network, dependence on internet connectivity, costs and complexity of implementation. Let us discuss how the advantages of VoIP overshadow the drawbacks, and how to get the most out of your VoIP system.

What makes VoIP the best choice?

VoIP will undoubtedly improve the productivity of your business and drastically cut telecommunication expenses. Here is how it does it:

Progressing VoIP technology

Previously, VoIP restricted users to computer systems and bad voice quality. Today's regular phones (using VoIP adapters) and IP phones assure consistent voice clarity, freedom to travel with your VoIP phone, and a variety of useful features. Existing data networks are utilized by businesses for intra-office calls, leading to significant savings and improved employee productivity.

VoIP brings down telecommunication costs

Conventional phone systems need constant administration and upkeep of costly infrastructure as per industry regulations. VoIP cuts down installation and maintenance overheads by using one network for voice and data. Moving the phone with the employees that incurs a charge of about $100 per head is now as straightforward as plugging an IP phone into a new broadband network jack. For similar services, VoIP service vendors charge lesser too than traditional phone system vendors.

Use VoIP services wherever you are

An IP phone can be used wherever there is a high speed internet connection. You can take calls from clients and associates at the office, your home, a hotel or even a friend's place. This cuts down your cell phone expenses. Many VoIP systems include software that allows you to make and receive calls on your laptop by plugging in a headphone and a microphone.

Simple VoIP configuration

Faxes and voice mails can be forwarded to your email inbox by configuring the VoIP phone system. Emails can also be recorded and delivered as voice mail. It lets you manage your messages and mails at one place.

Virtual phone number

You may want your business to have an area code of another region if you are targeting customers there. With VoIP, you can display a number with the desired area code to customers.

VoIP improves productivity

Studies show that VoIP systems improve productivity by almost 4 hours per employee per week. VoIP phone system features cut down on the time wasted in managing calls. Your VoIP phone number can ring simultaneously on your landline and mobile phone before reaching voice mail, making sure you never miss an important call.

Making the most of VoIP phone systems

As you can see, VoIP has much to offer. If you still have doubts, these tips will help you stay on top of them.

1. Use professional VoIP services

Though a typical VoIP phone system can be installed effortlessly, hire a VoIP service provider for bigger projects. Some network providers manage installation and configuration of VoIP solutions for small businesses.

2. Run a pilot project

Have a small group of people use the VoIP system and verify its usefulness to your business. Once you're satisfied, roll it out across the office. Hold on to your traditional phone system as a backup during this phase.

3. No missed calls with call forwarding

Set your VoIP phone system to forward unanswered calls to a cell phone or a landline or both. If there's ever an electricity outage, you won't miss any calls till an alternative power source gets going.

4. Secure your network

Networks are always in danger of getting hacked. Protect your network from denial-of-service attacks and digital hackers. Make it a priority to update network security and to check it thoroughly at regular intervals.

VoIP phone systems are an affordable option with all the advantages of a technologically evolved telecommunications system. Small businesses can reduce travel costs with high quality videoconferencing in real time, use VoIP integrated call center applications, and other cost effective benefits of VoIP. With modern wireless phones offering seamless switching between cellular and Wi-Fi networks, VoIP users have a lot to look forward to in terms of great service at compelling savings.
Daljeet Sidhu. Join B2B Portal. Small Business VoIP advice. VoIP Services quotes.
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