Voice over Internet Protocol, also known as VoIP, allows businesses to send and receive voice communications over Internet Protocol networks. The easiest way to describe VoIP is to compare it to the legacy phone system. To use a traditional phone, you need to connect it to the phone line. To use VoIP communications, you’ll connect to your network, which then connects to the Internet.
This is a simplification of all that VoIP can offer a small business. While traditional phones were used almost exclusively for one on one communication, VoIP is able to integrate with a variety of applications, helping you take your business to the next level.
Small Businesses and VoIP
Different businesses have different needs. VoIP systems allow your business to tailor each system to fit their needs. Rather than being forced to use something that doesn't scale well, VoIP is completely customizable – no matter how many employees you have or will be adding in the future. It's easy for you to accommodate growth simply.
The Benefits of Using a VoIP Service
The business world is competitive – especially when it comes to small business. For most businesses there are constant efforts in place to remain relevant, up-to-date and competitive within their industry. Here are some of the advantages you'll see when you switch to a VoIP service:
Lower Cost
When you use a legacy phone system, you have to pay for both Internet and traditional phone lines. When you switch to VoIP technology, your broadband handles all of your voice and Internet traffic, eliminating the need for separate phone lines and bills.
Since you'll be using your own network to communicate, you'll also have more control over the quality of communication you and your clients receive. The next time you're assessing your technology budget, think about what would change if you were able to cut the cost of using a legacy phone system entirely.
System Management
VoIP systems come with a user control interface which allows you and your staff to easily manage your communications. With these systems you can easily reallocate your bandwidth to meet your voice and Internet traffic needs, as they change, in a few simple, virtual steps. This also means that if employees switch workstations, you can handle that switch in a few minutes. These systems eliminate the wait for service technicians, and the additional costs associated with adding phone lines.
The benefit of VoIP allows you to get better service without waiting and while keeping the cost low. You're the one in control.
Application Collaboration
Because VoIP works through your Internet connection, it's also able to communicate with a variety of applications, providing synergy to your small business.
These applications include your web browser, instant messenger and email accounts. For example, if someone sends you a voice mail, you can have an application automatically transcribe the voice mail and email it to you.
Let's say a client calls with the details of an important order. Rather than spending the extra time to transcribe the order and risk making a mistake, the application can handle the transcription for you, and you can forward the resulting email to those who will fulfill the order.
Small Business VoIP Phone System
Ultimately, only you can decide whether you want to stay with the traditional phone system, or move onto a VoIP system. While the decision might not be easy, for most businesses the benefits of using VoIP far outweigh the reasons to remain rooted to the legacy system.
Request a phone system assessment to discuss your customization options and potential savings opportunities with a specialist.
