Did you know that global telecommunication spending exceeded $1,553 billion in 2020? Part of the reason for this staggering figure is the transition from analog to digital communication. At the center of this transition is the switch to VoIP.
But what exactly is VoIP? And what potential benefits could it bring to your business? You’re in the perfect place for those wishing to discover the answer to these questions and more.
This guide will go over everything you need to know about VoIP. That way, you can decide whether it’s the right call for your business.
What Is VoIP?
In the past, to make a phone call, you would need to be hooked up to a landline. However, that changed with the introduction of VoIP, also known as Voice Over IP. VoIP made it possible to both send and receive calls from the internet.
That means that businesses no longer need to set up a phone line. Instead, they can use their internet connections. So how does it work? Any audio or digital images you send out are converted into a digital signal.
This signal then travels to the receiver. If the receiver is digital, the movement remains digital upon arrival. Or, if they’re using a landline, the signal is converted back to audio.
Some common VoIP platforms you’ve likely heard of include WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Skype. You can explore this helpful guide here to learn more about how VoIP works.
How Can Your Business Benefit From VoIP?
We’ve already mentioned that you can save money as a business by only paying for an internet connection instead of a landline. But what are some other ways your business can benefit from VoIP?
In this section, we’ll be discussing some of the other advantages that come with it. And make sure to take a look at this resource for a complete guide on the pros and cons of VoIP systems.
Related: PBX vs. VoIP: What to Know Before Buying
1. Flexibility In Tool Selection
With VoIP, you get to pick what tools and services you need. Landlines often require you to pay for things that you don’t use. But with VoIP, you only purchase the things you need. Conference calls scheduling? No problem! Call waiting? Add it to the list.
2. Remote Work
Simply put, VoIP systems are much better for remote work. When you have a landline, you need to be at your desk to access any chat messages or voicemails you might have.
However, with a VoIP system, you can access these things whenever you need them for wherever you’re currently located.
3. Better Security
We know that online VoIP services might sound scary when you hear news stories of hackers. However, it’s important to remember that credible VoIP providers will ensure that your phone calls and data remain safe.
Digital signals are often more secure than landlines because they can be encrypted.
Related: What Is VoIP QoS? (& How to Set it Up)
4. Scalability
If you wanted to expand with a landline, you would need to add more cables or jacks every time you want to add a new number. VoIP does away with this nightmare.
It makes scalability easy when you want to add new employees and numbers. Contact your VoIP provider and ask them to create a unique number for you. It’s that easy!
Do you need to improve your VoIP call quality? Explore this guide to find some ways to improve your call quality.
What Businesses Can Benefit From VoIP
The truth is that almost any business that needs to make phone calls can benefit from VoIP services. However, for some, the features that come with it can be more helpful for them than others. Here are some of the industries we’ve worked with here at SE Telecom:
- Education
- Financial Services
- Government
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing & Logistics
- Nonprofits
- Professional Services
- Real Estate & Construction
- Hospitality
- Retail
- Sports & Entertainment
- Technology
So if your business falls in one of these industries, it’s worth considering transitioning to a hosted cloud phone system.
Related: VoIP vs. Landlines: How To Find the Best Phone System
How to Find a Good VoIP Provider
When looking for a good VoIP provider, there are three main things that you want to look for. First, you want to ensure they’re compliant with regulations in Canada. For example, here’s a list of some of the obligations for local VoIP in regard to emergency calls.
When a VoIP call can sometimes mean the difference between life and death, you want someone that your provider is following regulations. Next, you want to ensure that the VoIP provider can scale with your company.
It can be quite a pain to change VoIP providers when you need to expand your services. So make sure that the provider can grow with you. Lastly, you want to ensure that the VoIP system they offer has the features that your business needs.
The difference between an adequate VoIP service and an exceptional one is the features that come with all of them. Ideally, your provider will have a wide range of features you can utilize.
Do you want to learn how SE Telecom provides the support you need when you need it? Read about our company here to know why we’re an exceptional VoIP provider.
The Importance of VoIP for Businesses
There’s no denying that the world is becoming more online every day. Because of this fact, we need a telecommunications system that allows us to communicate verbally without relying on outdated land lands. VoIPs represent this change for many businesses.
Not only does it represent a step in the future with better efficiency, flexibility, and service, but it’s also more cost-effective. Because of this, you should always consider making the switch if you run a business.
Or, if you aren’t sure, consult with a professional that can advise you on the best course of action.