Why VoIP Telephone Systems Are Ideal for SMEs

 

Voice Over Internet Protocol, popularly known as VoIP or internet telephony, is a private telephone network operated via an internet service and not the traditional copper lines. Originally available only to large businesses, small and medium enterprises are now discovering the benefits of VoIP. As the internet is already in place and operational, this type of system offers them a cost effective and efficient business solution for video, voice and data conferencing. The more limited systems work in-house, registered to specific VoIP users, but more extensive ones are enabled for all the call requirements that an enterprise might have.

VoIP works at the almost infinite number of internet hotspots, so calls are easy to make or receive in public places like stations, airports and hotels. This makes the technology perfect if the small or medium business uses staff in the field, often has personnel who travel internationally, as well as nationally, for work and attend conferences and functions. Between cities there is the benefit of three digit dialling, saving time and money for the user. Staff can also opt to work from home while connected via the system to the office, so they can collect voicemail messages and answer calls promptly, which ultimately improves customer satisfaction and retention.

Cloud based VoIP systems are growing in number, especially for expanding businesses with a set budget, and additional lines can be added if required.

VoIP is secure and it often exceeds the standards of performance that traditional telephone networks offer. The expense of a circuit technology telephone system is being increasingly eschewed in favour of a system in which free telephone calls can be made utilising computer-to-computer technology, which in today’s profit and loss conscious environment is a huge bonus.

No one needs or wants additional expenditure when there’s a viable alternative. Every penny counts, especially in a small enterprise. For some, it makes sense to own the system outright, but for others, renting or provider hosted systems work out much more cost-effective and hassle-free.

VoIP systems are easy to set up, so if you don’t have an internet or technology expert in your staff it doesn’t matter. It only needs to be online for the system to work, normal phones can be used via an analogue telephone adaptor (A.T.A.) and the VoIP telephone system sends a voice message (analogue data) by converting it into digital signals so that the data is transferred via packets using the IP (internet protocol.)

For a call made to a standard telephone, the system alters the signals back to voice (analogue) before it reaches the call destination. Specialised phones that resemble normal phones are available. These connect to the Ethernet via a router and they have the required programming, PBX (private branch exchange) hardware and software installed for immediate usage.

VoIP telephone systems are seen as the future of communication for small and medium enterprises, so we recommend that you investigate further.

If you would like more information on VoIP telephone systems for businesses in Birmingham and the surrounding areas, contact Midland Networks today on 0800 849 8585. We are your local VoIP specialists, offering unrivalled expertise and value for money.