VoIP Benefits

VoIP phone systems, or internet-based telephony, is a great choice for small businesses, large companies, even households. Switching to VoIP is a relatively easy process- in most cases, you can download phone system software directly from a provider’s website and implement the new system within a few hours. Here are a few of the most commonly cited benefits of using a VoIP system:

Cost Savings of VoIP

Saving money is the number-one reason most businesses and households make the switch to a VoIP phone system. You can realize cost savings in a few ways: First, your monthly service charges will probably be lower than they would be using a traditional phone line. Why? Because VoIP calls can’t be routed geographically- they use the internet to send call data instead of a traditional phone line- no long distance charges can be added to your bill. VoIP service plans also tend to be less expensive than traditional phone service costs- sometimes as low as $15 a month. You can also save big on equipment, especially if you’re purchasing the system for your business. VoIP systems don’t require a phone cabinet or on-site routing equipment- just phones. No on-site equipment means no need for on-site maintenance, as well. VoIP can save the typical small business thousands of dollars or more in phone bills, equipment charges, and maintenance fees.

Features

VoIP has all of the same features a traditional phone is equipped with: voicemail, caller ID, call waiting, and other standard options. VoIP also allows users to take advantage of advanced features only available on internet-based phone systems. Features like video conferencing, online call monitoring, and online phone system access to add or configure extensions are also available with VoIP systems.

Flexibility

VoIP allows you to answer calls from a designated number anywhere there’s a working internet connection. Small businesses love this feature- it allows for a “mobile office” where employees can be reached at any time, no matter where they are. VoIP also allows find me/follow me features that enable users to configure multiple phones to ring when one number is called. For example, a call to your “office” line can ring to your office phone, your cell phone, or your computer.

Tracking Options

Since VoIP is an internet-based system, you can track and manage your system from your computer. Most VoIP systems allow you to track call volume and call time fairly easily- a feature that can be especially helpful for businesses that bill clients hourly or for time spent on the phone. You can also track calls in order to monitor sales efforts, employee phone time, or call volume by department.

Other important things you should know about VoIP is found here.