Voice over Protocol consists of innovative telecom solutions to individual consumers, small businesses, multinational corporations, and even governments. An increasing number of small business owners around the globe are turning to VoIP for their telecommunication needs. VoIP is a powerful technology that allows companies to streamline their communications systems while enjoying lower costs and increased capabilities. Using IP networks to handle voice traffic enables businesses to save large amounts of money on international calls. Digital networks also provide productivity-boosting features that traditional networks are unable to offer.
These include click to call which connects online customers to your sales or customer service staff with the click of a button. Web-based voice mail also includes checks and manages voice messages online. Integrated Conferencing uses real-time communication to collaborate with long-distance business partners as well. Call Routing reduces call center staffing. Lastly, auto-attendant covers larger areas with a smaller workforce by redirecting calls from unattended sites to attended sites.
Every IP network is capable of supporting VoIP, however, best results come from T1 lines or other high speed networks. Cable and DSL, while suitable for consumer use, may not give the voice quality and reliability required by businesses. However, there are several options available to businesses that migrate to VoIP. Equipment-based plans offer growing businesses greater flexibility, and in some cases they are easy to manage and maintain.
VoIP technology takes analog voice traffic and turns it into compact, digitized packets that can be sent over the internet, instead of using regular phone lines. Packets can take many different paths to reach their final destination. Once there, they are automatically unpacked and converted to clear audio. This is different from standard phone systems, where one call creates a dedicated connection that is used during the entire conversation. VoIP generates a non-dedicated connection only long enough to send short bursts of information.
Businesses must carefully evaluate their telecom and operational needs before selecting a VoIP solution. As always, look for a solution that has strong customer service support and a commitment to high voice quality. Combining current technology with scalable systems and unbeatable features, VoIP is quickly becoming the preferred choice for business telecommunication.
