VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) refers to the capabilities which make communication over the internet a possibility, using cloud-based technologies. In short - a phone system that uses the internet to make and receive calls.

What is VoIP? - A brief summary

VoIP allows users to make calls directly from their desktop, from a standard business phone, mobiles and even landline phones.

There are many features available when you choose a cloud-based phone system, and it doesn’t just benefit the company budget. While there will almost certainly be cost savings associated with the switch - it is estimated to save companies at least 30 per cent on phone bills - your entire company will also benefit from significant productivity gains. No matter what size your business, cloud-based technology is easy to set up, and has all the features you’d expect from a phone line, and more.

Here are four features of VoIP that can make your workers far more connected and better at what they do.

Single network data

With cloud-based phone systems, all communications are run over a single network. This can be extremely helpful for companies currently using multiple platforms and struggling to keep up with all communications. All operations in one place will improve employee productivity.

With VoIP, it’s easy to integrate your phone system with your employee’s email, allowing their inbox to act as a centralised repository for customer and coworker communications. Voicemail-to-email transcription services allow employees to easily catch up on missed calls from your inbox, which will significantly improve your ability to provide accurate and high-quality customer service.

The virtual receptionist

Not only can you forward calls, but you can automate where your incoming calls go. This is helpful for a sales desk or a call centre.

Navigate customers to the correct desk but having a series of questions (e.g. press 1 for customer services). Use this ‘virtual receptionist’ to provide customers with a simple and unique journey.

Remote management

Cloud-based solutions allow employees to seamlessly manage the phone system through a single, web-based portal. This is a huge benefit for organisations with multiple offices (even offices all over the globe). Since VoIP is run from the internet, that’s all you need in order to access it, meaning all your employees working from home, and on the road can access work calls.

Call diversion and forwarding

If there is a disaster and you can’t get into the office, VoIP can also be re-directed to your mobile or home phone, meaning you won’t miss those all important phone calls. By forwarding calls directly to an employee’s mobile device or another selected number, your employees can communicate seamlessly with clients and coworkers, even if they’re working out of the office or travelling.

Conclusion

Your business phone system should never inhibit productivity. If your employees are struggling to manage multiple communication channels without integration or keep up with several phone numbers, it’s likely time to make the switch to a centralised means of phone communication.

With an effective cloud-based phone system implementation, all departments can become more efficient at communicating internally and externally, which can lead to important gains in customer satisfaction, and higher rates of productivity.

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