Let’s face it. As a business owner, you’re always looking for ways to increase operating efficiencies and save money. And, technology is a great tool in which to accomplish those undertakings.
But, how do you go about getting it done?
An increasingly popular and effective approach is implementing Voice-over-Internet Protocol, or more commonly called VoIP. Basically, this system moves your business phone communications to your network connection. Consequently, it allows you and your team to access communication services from anywhere.
Yet, despite its growing use, many business owners are still unsure whether VoIP is the right choice. Does knowing you can reduce your telecom costs by as much as 30% help make the decision easier? Thought so.
Let’s take a look at some primary benefits of VoIP and see how well it fits your business needs.
Bye-Bye Ma Bell
Overwhelmingly, operating costs for the majority of VoIP service providers are significantly lower than traditional phone companies. This allows VoIP providers, such as your local managed services provider (MSP), charge you much less, both in calling rates and monthly fees.
With VoIP, your business no longer needs to maintain separate networks: one for phones; another for data. This saves you a bundle to reinvest in other business disciplines, or simply gain in profit.
And, while some businesses do pay their current phone company extra for features like call holding, call display and call forwarding, most VoIP providers automatically include those features in their product offering. That means you don’t have to pay extra.
Easy as 1, 2, 3
With most VoIP connections, there’s no need to install switching boards or phone connections. Some systems are easily installed by downloading an app to your computer. Others might require you install an adaptor that converts voice signals into digital signals using your existing phones. However, these adaptors are small. And, in most cases, all you have to do is plug in the phone’s cable before plugging the adaptor into an Internet connection socket.
More than Voice
Many VoIP programs also allow for:
• Chat capabilities
• Video calls
• Video conferencing
• Screen sharing
What’s more, you can identify employee availability using presence technology. And, you give your team more ways to stay connected.
Increase Productivity
Many VoIP phone numbers are configured to simultaneously ring on multiple devices, like your cell and landline. This eliminates time-consuming phone tag.
According to a recent survey conducted by Sage Research, the increased productivity enabled by Internet telephony added up to 3.9 hours per week, per employee. Now, that’s simple math adding up to savings across the board.
No matter what industry you operate in, VoIP is a flexible, affordable and continuously evolving technology. If you’re interested in reducing your costs and elevating your efficiency, consider implementing a VoIP system at your company.
Contact us today to sign up for a free Telecom Assessment. See what we have to offer and how we can help.