Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a technology that allows users to make and receive voice calls using an Internet connection instead of an analog phone line. Now that high-speed Internet is readily available, VoIP is becoming the top choice for businesses that want to improve their responsiveness and connectivity. Here are some of the main advantages of implementing a business VoIP system.
Cost-Effective
A quality VoIP system is considerably more cost-effective than a conventional analog telephone system. Businesses can save on telephone company connection charges and do not necessarily have to invest in additional telecommunications hardware. If your staff members are operating from mobile, they do not need any additional hardware. They only need a headset to utilize VoIP if they use computer workstations. For those who want to purchase or rent VoIP phones, they are available at very competitive rates.
Another way that VoIP helps you to cut costs is that you can conveniently hold conference calls and video conferences through your VoIP system without having to purchase any additional services, software, or hardware. VoIP allows you to make thousands of minutes of calls to national and international numbers for free. You can also set up a toll-free number for your clients to call at a fraction of the cost of a toll-free number from a traditional telephone company.
Easy to Install
One of the biggest headaches of analog telephone systems is the need to run telecommunication cables. In a busy office with multiple workstations, having to call in the technicians to add an extra phone line can cause unnecessary distraction and disruption. VoIP telephone systems negate the use of complex cabling. VoIP phones can be connected to existing networks straight out of the box and managed easily from your browser.
Furthermore, many modern VoIP phone models feature PoE (Power over Ethernet) which enables your phone to draw power from the Ethernet line without requiring a separate power source. PoE not only offers more stability than relying on mains power but also allows you to position your devices exactly where you need them without having to worry about cables and wires cluttering up your workstation.
Enables Mobility
The last thing you want is to miss important calls from potential or existing customers. VoIP numbers allow your team members to be contactable even when they are out and about. Users can switch between their computer and mobile apps seamlessly, allowing them to take calls and continue message conversations with clients even when they are away from their desks. In addition, VoIP voicemails will ensure that every message is captured.
VoIP is also perfect for hot desking. Hot desking is the practice of allowing team members to take any free workstation as they require instead of being assigned a fixed desk. Hot desking enables businesses to maximize their workspace and lower their operational costs. VoIP works well with hot-desking arrangements because users can quickly log in to their VoIP accounts from any workstation at hand and continue to make and receive calls at their previous contact number.
Exceptional Versatility
Adopting a VoIP system does not mean that you have to do away with the old modes of communication. Sometimes you may need to touch base with clients who still use legacy equipment such as fax machines. With VoIP, you can use virtual faxing to send unlimited faxes without having to endure the awful dial tones that come with legacy machines. You can also convert your analog phones into VoIP phones with the help of adapters.
And that is not all. VoIP systems typically come with a myriad of useful functions such as a free toll-free number, call recording, call forwarding, number porting, and instant automated greetings. You can get advanced call routing to ensure that incoming calls are automatically sent to the correct department, get faxes and voicemails sent to your email inbox, and transfer phone conversations across multiple devices.
Customer Satisfaction
Ultimately, VoIP enhances customer satisfaction because it makes communication so much more efficient. Your team members may be moving between desks and even states but they can continue to provide the best possible service to your clients. Quality VoIP providers include free number porting with your services, so your clients can continue to use your old contact numbers. The only thing that changes is your responsiveness.
With a VoIP system, customers can choose from a variety of communication methods such as email, text messages, or phone calls to connect with your business. Because all communications are integrated, team members can easily pick up where others left off and effectively handle customer concerns. Transcripts, records, and reports can help you to analyze your service proficiency and address key areas for improvement.
VoIP systems are more cost-effective than traditional analog phone systems and are a breeze to install. They enhance mobility and versatility in your workplace, allowing your employees to adopt the agile approach required to keep pace with the fast-changing business landscape. By installing a VoIP system, you can improve the entire customer journey from the first point of contact to after-sales support.