 |
| Flickr image by Afrizalnet |
More and more companies are choosing to incorporate VoIP terminationand originationinto their business communications, which is easily explained by the convenience and affordability of this technology. Few, however, manage to avoid certain related pitfalls.
We want you to gain the most from your VoIP solution, so we've decided to warn you of some of the largest mistakes you could make in the process. Take a minute to read through the list to be sure you keep your VoIP experience trouble-free.
Not doing your homework
By ‘doing your homework’ we mean understanding the functions offered, and how they correlate with the needs of your business. After all, VoIP serves to fix the flaws of your existing telephony system. To remedy them effectively, you need to successfully identify them first. What are the main issues of your system? What is the current/expected traffic? What functions does VoIP offer and which of them should be used in your case? The one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for all users in your network, so you’ll have to define which of them need more functions than others.
No preliminary assessment and low-quality hardware
VoIP can’t be implemented successfully in a low-quality network. First, you have to make sure that your security protection, bandwidth and hardware are of the appropriate level. VoIP is rather demanding in terms of bandwidth, so it’s possible that you’ll have to upgrade your existing connection. An old router won’t do either. Make sure to choose one that is business-grade with a QoS (quality of service) feature. Also note, some systems (faxes and alarms) still rely on the analogue technology so you will have to provide a solution for them, too.
No deployment or emergency plans
Like any new technology, VoIP needs a deployment plan, and like any Internet technology, it needs an emergency protocol defining what to do in cases of power outages and connection failures. The system should be implemented gradually, preferably overlapping the regular telephone network to give time for adjustment.
Lack of training
Even if your company has only five employees, they’ll need time and guidance to master the use of VoIP. What if you have hundreds? Schedule a few training sessions and don’t pressure them – people aren’t always friendly to new technologies and sometimes reject them on a subconscious level.
Doing it on your own
Implementing VoIP is not that difficult, but a few consults from your provider will definitely help you out. We are ready to provide you with all the assistance you need, and can advise you on the most efficient VoIP implementation. Feel free to contact us at any time.
Take measures to avoid these stumbling stones, and your business will enjoy a powerful boost in terms of cost efficiency and flexibility of your telephony system.