Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services are revolutionizing the way businesses communicate by providing organizations with effective and consistent in-office communication for their value. But before you switch to VoIP, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:
What are your network needs?
When contemplating whether or not to get VoIP, it’s vital to determine how much control you need over your network. Depending on the answer to that question, you will choose between two primary approaches:
Managed VoIP
- Your company manages and maintains an on-site VoIP system.
- Initial costs can be higher due to hardware and maintenance expenses.
- Offers greater versatility and control over your network.
Hosted VoIP
- An outsourced third party handles the costs for new hardware and telecom network maintenance.
- Your company is relieved of the burden of monitoring and updating telecom technologies.
- This setup is often favored by small businesses because they pay only for the services used, with lower upfront fees.
If you are comfortable sharing control of your VoIP infrastructure for convenience, then you should consider the hosted approach. If you are uncomfortable with such an arrangement and want full control, then the managed approach might suit you better.
What will be your technical involvement?
The choice between managed and hosted VoIP depends on your comfort level with managing and maintaining your VoIP setup. If you have limited IT knowledge, opt for hosted VoIP. An onsite managed VoIP is more suited to companies with more resources and a need for more customized telecom networks.
Should you choose to go mobile?
With VoIP, telephony is no longer confined to a specific phone network. The cloud makes it possible for modern employees to have access to various communication tools securely, anytime, anywhere. You may need or prefer VoIP systems with mobile integration so your team can answer calls and join video conferences from their mobile devices while working from home.
How quickly is your business growing?
When selecting the right VoIP system, make sure that your service provider aligns with your company’s growth plans. Your VoIP solution should easily scale up and add or remove lines as needed without you having to invest in new hardware or infrastructure. Your VoIP system should withstand demanding call volumes, especially during peak season or sudden increases of your customer base.
What is the quality of your internet connection?
Regardless of your VoIP provider choice, a robust and stable internet connection is essential to support and make the most out of your communications network. Check if your company has dedicated broadband or leased lines. The former offers higher internet speeds which allows you to handle greater quantities of data quickly. While the latter provides better voice quality, which translates into better and clearer voice communication within the office and outside it.
What is your budget?
Your budget drastically narrows down your VoIP provider choices. Calculate hardware and installation costs, alongside ongoing management expenses. Examine the provider’s fees for managing, updating, and maintaining your telecom system. Additionally, always read the fine print of your contract to ensure that you’re only paying for the services that you need.
Choosing and integrating a VoIP system can be overwhelming. But, by considering these factors and asking yourself the right questions, you can make an informed choice. If you need more help with VoIP, our experts are here to assist you every step of the way.