No matter what size, every business needs a high-quality phone system to stay in touch with its customers, partners, and suppliers. Having an efficient phone system is essential for any business looking to grow and succeed. There are many different types of phone systems available in today’s market, but the most popular and cost-effective option is VoIP, or voice over internet protocol.

Switching to a VoIP network can be an overwhelming process, but it can be easy and hassle-free with the proper steps. First, formulate a list of all the features you want your phone system to have. VoIP providers often offer enterprise-level functionality like auto-attendants, phone branches, automatic call distribution, faxing, hold music, voicemail to email, call monitoring and recording, and video conferencing.

Once you know what features you are looking for in an internet phone service, now you can look at these five critical steps you should pay close attention to when making the switch.

Migration Process

When making the switch to VoIP, it is crucial to have a clear, precise plan for the migration process. Switching to VoIP has many different factors to consider, such as the number of phones in use, the type of phone system currently in place, and the current bandwidth availability.

In most cases, the migration process will involve upgrading or installing new software, sourcing new phones, transferring numbers to the new system, connecting current phones, and porting your phone number to the new phones.

Ideally, your team should be equipped with basic instructions, manuals, and tutorial videos and have had some formal training before going live.

Are You Using Hosted or Onsite VoIP

Hosted VoIP is a type of VoIP service that is delivered to businesses through the cloud. This means that all of the equipment and software are housed on the provider’s servers, and companies simply need to connect to the internet to start using the service.

Hosted VoIP providers typically offer a wide range of features, such as call forwarding, call waiting, voicemail, caller ID, etc. These services are often bundled together and delivered at a lower monthly price than traditional phone service.

Related: What is Hosted Contact Center?

Onsite VoIP is a type of VoIP that requires businesses to purchase and install their own equipment. This option gives companies more control over their phone system but can be more expensive upfront.

Some businesses may choose to use a hybrid of both hosted and onsite VoIP to get the best of both worlds. For VoIP service contact SE Telecom today.

What Type of Internet Connection Will You Be Using

One of the most important considerations when switching to VoIP is the type of internet connection you will be using. There are two main types of internet connections: wired and wireless.

When making the switch to VoIP, it is vital to have a clear plan for the migration process. Depending on your current system and other needs, you may need to expand your existing system or add a wired connection.

A VoIP phone.

Alternative Powering Plans

When making the switch to VoIP, it is essential to have a backup plan in case of a power outage. A VoIP system should have an alternative powering plan that will keep the phones operational in even during a power outage.

Some businesses may choose to use a battery backup system to keep the phones running in a power outage, and others may choose to use a generator to keep the phones running. Furthermore, some providers offer applications to help you stay connected during these hard times.

Businesses tend to flourish with reliable employees when you have a reliable system. A certain synergy is created when individuals and companies come together and reach peak performance through a trustworthy system. It’s also a good idea to first ask your provider about reliability and redundancy with the system. Questions like, when situations arise like when one server goes down, will there be another available to take its place, to handle the traffic?

Startup Costs

When making the switch to VoIP, some startup costs are typically involved. This includes costs for upgrading or installing new software, sourcing new phones, transferring your phone number to the new system, connecting the phones, and porting your phone number to the new phones.

Related: What is VoIP Number Porting?

In most cases, the startup costs will be significantly lower than the monthly costs of older, more traditional phone services. The possible benefits of installing these advanced systems can become priceless to a company just planting its roots in the industry

Ongoing Costs

The ongoing costs of VoIP are typically lower than the ongoing costs of traditional phone service. This includes the monthly fee of the service and any additional features that you may choose to add on.

Related: 20+ Features of VoIP That You Can’t Live Without

In most cases, the monthly cost of VoIP will be lower than the monthly cost of traditional phone service. This is because VoIP providers often offer discounts for bundling services and other factors. Furthermore, many VoIP services provide affordable, sometimes even free, international calling.

You shouldn’t have to feel trapped in a plan, so finding a VoIP provider is right for your company. If a service doesn’t work out, it isn’t exactly what was expected. Before you choose a network provider, make sure you discuss contracts and other additional termination fees.

A person on the phone while working.

Final Thoughts

Your business communication system is essential to your company’s success. The quality of the connection, the professionalism of the communications, and the ease with which callers can reach you and navigate your menus speak volumes about the quality and care you put into your business and care about your customers and employees. 

Switch to VoIP today the easy way by talking to SE Telecom today.