The way we think about making a phone call has evolved with the technology we use to communicate. Yet, when we think about phones for businesses, we may not look past the trusty old landline as the safest and cheapest option, when the reality is that landlines are being overtaken by VoIP.
What is VoIP?
VoIP stands for Voice Over Internet Protocol. Put simply, it uses an internet connection to make phone calls by transmitting your voice as data across a network. It’s a cloud-based phone system that works like a traditional landline, only with all the bonuses that come with internet-based technology such as clarity, efficiency, and security.
VoIP vs Landline
So why the shift? Let’s compare the two:
Landlines are reliable, but they’re also…
- Fixed to one location
- Costly and time-consuming setup
- Require multiple sets of hardware (bases, cable, installation etc.)
- Additional features such as call waiting often costs extra
VoIP is…
- Typically, half the price of a landline plan
- Can be used on mobile devices such as your tablet, smart phone etc. making it portable
- Features such as call waiting, voicemail etc. come standard
- Features top notch security options
- Flexible to suit the needs of your business
What to look for when setting up VoIP for your business
Unlike landline providers with a monopoly on the market of phone systems for businesses, VoIP has enough providers to drive competitive pricing and plans with value for money.
Navigating these providers can be tricky, so here’s a list of things to consider when making your choice.
They can backup their claims
The internet is a great tool for calling out fake or exaggerated claims from providers about their quality of product and service. All it takes is a quick look at some research or reviews on a provider’s performance.
They provide tools to monitor and report on quality
Any self-respecting provider will have tools in place to monitor and report on call quality trends across all locations of your business where VoIP is used. Monitoring, analysing and reporting on trends means they can flag potential problems and provide solutions efficiently to avoid any downtime. It also provides you with a good snapshot of how your systems are performing and whether any adjustments need to be made.
Their call quality has a proven track record
Ever received one of those calls where there’s a 3-4 second delay on the caller’s voice? How about being on hold with a Mozart symphony that sounds like it’s inside a blender? Worst of all, having a call drop out before exchanging any other contact details? VoIP call quality is essential for businesses that want their communication to run smoothly and successfully. There should be no excuse for poor call quality, so ensure you do your research on providers with a proven track record.
They have excellent customer service and support staff
Running a business can be challenging enough without having to sit on hold or wait up to weeks to receive an email updating you on a solution to your problem. Even though VoIP is tech-based, it still requires a lot of other elements to function well for your business. Providers with dedicated teams who know their stuff to support you in the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting and diagnostics of your systems should be a big box that needs ticking when selecting a service provider.
Need help?
If you’re ready to make the move to VoIP or need more information on whether VoIP is right for your business and how it all works, we’re here to give you some help.
