Guide to VoIP

    Table of Contents

    1. Introduction to Voice over Internet Protocol
    2. VoIP Terms to Know
    3. What you Need to Know Before Switching
    4. VoIP Benefits
    5. Costs of VoIP Services for Businesses
    6. What does a Vendor Provide?
    7. What to Know Before you Buy
    8. Quick Negotiation Advice for Buyers

     

     

    1.  What is Voice over Internet Protocol?

    Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, is a type of phone system that uses computer-telephony integration (CTI) to make calls.  VoIP technology is also used in hosted phone systems, a type of system where phone equipment is housed at a provider location instead of at your office.

    In regular English, a VoIP phone uses an internet connection instead of a phone line to make calls.

    Think of VoIP like a cell phone- though the method used to make calls is different, VoIP operates just like a traditional phone.  A VoIP call sounds the same as a regular telephone call and can be placed to any type of phone.  In terms of features, VoIP phones offer quite a bit that regular “landline” setups, such as PBX or KSU systems, cannot.  Switching to VoIP is easy, fast, and can end up saving you a ton of money.

    Here are a few of the most commonly cited reasons companies switch to VoIP service providers:

    • Cost: Phone bills are lower, equipment and maintenance costs are virtually zero- you don’t even need to buy new phones.
    • Convenience:  VoIP lets you take calls from anywhere with an internet connection, a huge bonus for those who travel frequently or have telecommuting employees.
    • Easy to use: Calls can be transferred more easily, opening up communication between employees, vendors, and customers.  One major company saw productivity increase between 134 and 500% across departments after switching to Voice over IP.

    As with any technology purchase, shopping for phone systems can get a little overwhelming.  You have so many options to consider, so many features- how do you decide what you really need?

    This guide outlines the basics of implementing a VoIP system.  Whether you’re purchasing an office phone system for the first time, or switching to VoIP from a traditional landline-based model, you’ll need to know a few basics before you start to look for providers.  Brush up on common terminology, research the features you need, and then compare costs- pretty soon your business will be on the fast track to improved communications and great cost savings.

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