VoIP: The Future of Business Communications
Have you ever had a problem with business communications? If you have, you’re not alone. No matter their size or industry, many businesses are struggling to find the right phone system that will help them streamline communication and customer service and save them money in the long run. One option that can help your business has been around for over 25 years—VoIP (voice over IP). Used by governments and Fortune 500 companies alike, VoIP (voice over IP) may be the right solution for your business’s phone system needs as well.
What Is VoIP?
VoIP is a voice-over Internet Protocol technology that allows users to use their internet connection for voice communication. You can utilize this technology on a wide range of devices, including desktop computers, mobile phones, smartphones, and tablets. VoIP services typically offer lower rates and greater functionality than traditional phone services.
Before opting for a VoIP service, it is important to consider how it works and if you can use its features, both now and in the future. For example, many VoIP UcaaS providers will not work on mobile phones or other devices which are not Wi-Fi enabled.
How Does VoIP Work?
Voice over IP (VoIP) works by converting voice signals into digital data. VoIP technology then moves that data from one place to another using an internet connection instead of a traditional landline connection. VoIP also typically allows businesses to use a single number for making and receiving calls, which is important for customers who want an easy way to contact a business.
Examples of VoIP:
- Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology transmits voice communications over the Internet Protocol network, typically for telephony.
- VoIP is perfect for telephony needs in business or residential applications such as home security systems, intercoms, and baby monitors.
- VoIP can also refer to the end-user devices that terminate the VoIP signaling protocol and pass the media stream onto the communications network.
From calling customers to scheduling appointments to arranging for repairs, there are plenty of instances where using a business VoIP system can make life much easier. For example, small businesses often utilize smartphone apps as their primary method of communication.
Using VoIP can also save you money in many cases because some carriers charge low or flat-rate fees instead of per-minute charges. However, if you have a high call volume, it may not be more cost-effective. Research your options and make sure that VoIP will work for your business before investing in it as a communication solution.
VoIP for Home
You may have read about businesses saving money with VoIP, but did you know you can save too? Many home phone service providers charge anywhere from $20 to $40 per month for basic features like voicemail and caller ID. But with a VOIP plan for your home, you could get unlimited calling, voicemail, and caller ID for as little as $20 a month. Most VoIP providers even give away free handsets or add them to your package for an additional fee.
VoIP for Work
VoIP is more than just a way to save money on business phone bills. It’s also a way to improve communication across your organization and give employees access to new collaboration tools that improve workflows and enhance productivity. At its core, VoIP is about improving productivity and increasing engagement.
VoIP vs. Old Circuit-Switched Networks
VoIP offers cost savings compared to legacy communications systems. For example, there is no longer a need for additional hardware or telephones; you can use existing phones to make and receive calls over a VoIP system. And most cloud-based VoIP providers come with bring your own device options, so you don’t have to pay for additional handsets. These features lead to significant savings over legacy systems that need additional equipment, in addition to long-term costs.
Key Reasons Why Your Business Should Make VoIP Its Top Priority
With hundreds of options available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed when deciding which business communications solution is right for your company.
With that in mind, here are the key reasons why every business should consider a VoIP phone system:
Scalability:
One of today’s greatest advantages of using VoIP over traditional phone systems is its scalability — the flexibility you have to grow with your company. For example, if you start off with two lines and three people on staff, you can upgrade to eight lines and seven employees without upgrading your hardware or purchasing new phones.
The advanced nature of today’s technologies demands that businesses stay on top of current trends and continually seek new means to upgrade their technology platforms. In addition, organizations want to avoid becoming obsolete, and one way to do that is by upgrading their communications systems.
Newer forms of communication such as mobile devices, tablets, Internet-based services, and social media have made it possible for all employees to be in constant contact with both clients and colleagues. Unfortunately, this can create a huge amount of stress on existing IT infrastructures.
One way to help alleviate these issues is through Voice over IP (VoIP) technology, which seamlessly integrates into existing infrastructure while helping cut down costs significantly over time.
