It seems as though everyone is talking about IP Telephony and VoIP. But what are they exactly, and what is everyone so excited about?
Essentially IP Telephony is a technology that allows you to make telephone calls over a broadband internet connection. Voice is sent over the internet, and forms a call – Voice over Internet Protocol or VoIP.
The basic technology is fairly straightforward
It involves sending data from one computer to another via the internet, in this case the data (your voice) is translated into a digital stream, given a destination address (another computer) and converted back into speech.
The main advantage of this is that the call is essentially free as long as there is an internet connection. And it doesn’t matter how far the call has to travel; a call to New York costs the same as a call to York. You can call any telephone in the world and any telephone can call you – whatever equipment or network the person you are calling uses.
As well as the fantastic money-saving potential of VoIP systems there are other key benefits.
Scalability
It’s easy to add new phone numbers or extensions
For instance, adding new employees to a VoIP system can be done in minutes, instead of waiting for new lines to be installed. If your business operates from several locations, they can all be connected to the same system, meaning calls can be easily transferred from office to office.
No more telling the customer, “I’m sorry you’ll have to phone another number”.
Portability
Any phone can be your office phone.
Being internet based, any internet-enabled device with communication functionality can be used to send and receive calls via your VoIP network.
It simplifies collaboration with remote workers and increases productivity by reducing or eliminating the need to travel.
Feature-rich
Standard features with a business VoIP system bring a whole host of additional benefits, which improve communication and customer service, making businesses more effective.
Caller ID, call waiting and call forwarding all ensure that you won’t miss an important call. Conference calling and voice to email features make efficient use of time.
Reporting Systems
A VoIP systems provider can provide a platform allowing you to monitor and analyse how your system is used. Who’s picking up the phone? Who’s making the most number of sales calls? How long are they on the phone for? Are we missing incoming calls – and who were they from?
This management information can be used to implement improvements in the way you work, enhancing customer service and increasing your ability to respond to and convert new opportunities.
So how important is it to you to be able to control costs ?
be flexible and responsive, nurture existing customers and develop new business?
Does your telephone system support you in your drive for efficiency and growth?
To choose the right VoIP telephone system for your business please call the Direct Voice and Data team on free phone 0808 165 86 86 now.
