The Benefits of Cloud-Based VoIP for Small Businesses
Get on cloud nine! Nearly 70% of companies used VoIP phone systems in 2019. The market is worth more than $85 billion, and it’s expected to reach more than $100 billion soon.
More companies are finding VoIP phone systems to be more beneficial and cost-effective than landlines. If you’re looking to upgrade your phones, you need to understand how cloud-based VoIP can transform your business. Here are the benefits of cloud-based VoIP for small businesses.
What Is Cloud-Based VoIP?
Cloud-based Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems let you make calls over the internet instead of using a landline. An off-site data center hosts your cloud services, so you don’t need to maintain any hardware in your office.
You can connect your system to any device, including a traditional phone, computer, or smartphone. The cloud keeps your information and data private, protecting it from thieves and hackers.
Related: How to Set Up VoIP
Benefits of Cloud-Based VoIP
The benefits of VoIP are extensive, especially if you compare VoIP systems to landlines. Here are just some of the most significant benefits you can expect as soon as you switch to VoIP.
Low Cost
82% of companies have reported saving money after switching to VoIP systems. You only need to pay for your internet connection when you are using a cloud-based system. You do not need to pay for call minutes, phone service, or features like voicemail.
Less Equipment
Cloud phones require less equipment than landline phones. You can use your mobile devices and computers to complete your calls. Any additional hardware is optional, and you can purchase it affordably.
More Services
Landline phones are becoming increasingly out-of-date. They lack essential VoIP features like voicemail, customizable hold messages, and automated assistants. You can get these features in your cloud-based VoIP system cheaply. Companies will walk you through how to set these services up, letting you make calls to clients sooner.
Need help setting up your VoIP system and enabling features? Contact the VoIP team at SE Telecom now!
Scalability
You can add new lines and extensions to your VoIP system whenever you want. This makes hiring new employees and acquiring new clients much more straightforward than with your landline system. If you need to remove someone’s line, you can disable their connection with your computer.
Your provider can carry out maintenance and updates automatically. You do not need to hire someone to come over and install your updates. Many providers will update your cloud when you are not working, so updates will not interfere with your business.
Remote Flexibility
Alt text: someone working at home
39% of jobs in Canada can be done at home. To appeal to workers who want to stay home, you need to have remote flexibility. A cloud-based system works in homes and remote spaces as well as office spaces. You can set up a primary number, and your system will route calls from your customers to employees in their homes.
To be fully flexible, your employees must have strong home internet connections. You may need to buy premium packages so calls at home stay high in quality.
Related: VoIP Troubleshooting
Better Than On-Premises VoIP
On-premises VoIP systems use equipment and hardware inside your office building. After you sign a contract with your provider, you buy the hardware upfront. You then need to maintain the hardware using in-house professionals, though you are independent of the provider for support.
On-premises systems have higher upfront costs than cloud-based systems. You also need to spend more time and money maintaining your system. The only real advantage is that you do not need to rely on your phone provider for maintenance. But many providers provide timely care and customer service, so this is not a significant advantage.
Want to see for yourself what high-quality VoIP systems are like? Book a demo with SE Telecom’s VoIP professionals today!
How to Enhance Your Cloud-Based VoIP System
To receive the full benefits of your system, you must make a few improvements. Here’s how you can enhance your system so it lasts for years to come.
Purchase Headsets
Headsets let you hear your customers better and speak clearly into microphones. Ask your employees to wear headsets whenever they are conducting calls. Find ones with noise-canceling foam so exterior noise doesn’t distract them.
Headsets with USB cords have better sound quality than wireless headsets. If you’re worried about your headset reducing your mobility, find one with a long cord. You can also use a SIP-compliant phone with your headset. The device contains speakerphones that connect to your headset’s microphone, letting you stand up and enjoy a high-quality connection.
Update Your Routers
Alt text: a router with wires connected to it
Buy routers that have just been introduced and contain wireless features. Your router should prioritize VoIP traffic and calls over all other types of data so you can have smooth conversations with your clients. Ask an IT professional to set up your router for you so VoIP traffic comes first.
You should also ask the IT professional to walk you through your router. Learn about how to make repairs or manage the data passing through it.
Reduce Your Bandwidth
The more bandwidth you use, the less quality you will have during phone conversations. Turn off idling programs on your computer. When you need to look up something during a call, open a browser, find what you are looking for, and then turn off your browser. The program will continue to idle if you exit the window, so don’t stop there.
Your phone can interfere with your VoIP connection, especially if your phone operates at a high frequency. Turn your device to a lower spectrum and keep your phone powered down. Check what frequency your phone and electronic devices are regularly to avoid any problems.