What is VoIP and Why It’s Crucial for Any Business Big or Small?
You may have started hearing the acronym VoIP being bandied about. But what does it mean? And why is everyone talking about it? VoIP stands for Voice-over-Internet Protocol, and below are the reasons why VoIP is so important to incorporate it into your business model as soon as possible.
What Does VoIP Do?
VoIP allows users to make voice calls over a broadband connection. The technology works by converting the user’s voice into a digital signal that is then relayed via the internet. Unite.ca offering best VoIP services: there are options for making these types of calls directly from a computer, using a special VoIP phone, or a regular phone that’s connected to a VoIP adaptor. Wireless hotspots are also available, which facilitate VoIP calls.
The cost of incorporating VoIP into your business will depend on your requirements and the provider you choose. When looking at the options, you should consider factors such as the ease of set-up and maintenance, the customer service provision, and scalability; read more here about other elements to weigh up, and for an example of a VoIP provider, to get an idea of what you can expect to get for your money.
In terms of the equipment, your business will need to get started using VoIP technology, a high-speed broadband internet connection is required, along with a computer, adaptor, or special VoIP phone set.
Why Does My Business Need VoIP?
So now we’ve covered what exactly VoIP is, what are the benefits it can deliver to your business? Great question. Here’s everything you need to know.
Mobility
Wherever you are, if you can get online, you can access the full functionality of your regular phone service. This means that, from home, from the airport, or while traveling on the train, you can, for example, redirect phone numbers, access your messages, or download call data.
VoIP technology means that, even if you have staff based in multiple countries across the globe, everyone can share a single communication system.
Less Expensive
In most cases, a VoIP service will work out as substantially cheaper for your business than regular telephone provision. The lack of hardware, and the subsequent maintenance requirement for equipment, drive down the overall cost still further, meaning ongoing savings. Many VoIP providers offer pay-as-you-go pricing, which allows you to pay only for the minutes you use, and also makes this a low-risk option if you wish to consider trialing it for an initial period before committing to long-term use.
Research your options when it comes to the various packages available – many have introductory offers which can save you even more money, although be sure to read up on the full terms and conditions.
Saves on Staff Costs
Not only can VoIP negate the need for maintenance and upgrade visits, but it can also fulfill the functions of a receptionist by greeting customers and routing them to the correct department or team member as required.
Conference and Video Calling Made Easy
Remote conference calls are becoming an increasingly standard mode of meeting in many businesses. VoIP technology makes this easy; most providers include synching features which allow users to link their VoIP to their calendars for simple scheduling. If you would like to invite an individual from outside of your business through the international calls, then the system will automatically generate and send an invitation to this person with the details and the link they will need to use to join the meeting.
If your device has a camera, then VoIP supports video calls, too.
Better Security
Most VoIP services are more secure than landlines; this is due to the fact that data shared over an internet connection can be encrypted, making it inaccessible to hackers. Online security programs can be installed and run on your business’ devices to ensure that all data and communication is secure.
All communication made using VoIP is not only secure but is backed up, so there is no risk of losing information or reaching the limit regarding the number of messages your voicemail can store at any one time.
Range of Features And Tools
As well as allowing users to make voice calls over the internet, VoIP services typically also provide a range of additional features. These include call waiting and forwarding, customizable voice mail, the facility to share files and data, and chat services. The aim of a VoIP service is to provide better and more effective communication between team members, customers, and potential new clients, and using the full range of features that this service offers can help your business boost productivity and take the next step in its growth.
The Takeaway
VoIPs are already the standard mode of communication for many businesses, and their use is set to grow. Using a VoIP service can save you money, allow you access to your communication system anywhere there’s an internet connection, and drive up efficiency by facilitating an easier connection between team members and clients. The low-risk, low set-up element of the provision makes, at the very least, trialing this service a great move.
Internet of Things and Streaming Expert
