Finding a business phone system or service package that provides all the necessary components to conduct business effectively is an important undertaking for any business. To add to the complexity of the issue, finding a telephone system that meets all of your business’ requirements and remains within a set budget has long been a challenge for many businesses.
One of the main driving factors behind the rapid growth of VoIP telephone systems for businesses is that these systems can be extraordinarily cost effective while providing a wide range of services and extras. Rather than being in the position of having to sacrifice certain elements of a phone system in order to stay under budget, many businesses are finding that they can find a system that fulfills all of their technical and service needs while remaining well within their budgetary restrictions.
Why VoIP?
VoIP utilizes the Internet, and a data connection (either a dedicated line, or your existing connection) to complete calls. These calls are not restricted by factors such as distance and call volume, and are extraordinarily more cost effective because of this. Long distance, international, and toll free charges for businesses are significantly lowered, or even removed altogether, using VoIP technology and service providers.
This means that aside from the cost of your hardware and network, the charges from your VoIP service provider generally do not include the myriad additional service charges for options, long distance, your toll-free business line, and other additional charges that are often found with traditional telephone service providers.
Hardware Options
The basic components needed to utilize a VoIP phone system for your business are a VoIP handset or headset, a data connection (dedicated or shared), and a service provider of some sort. The data connection can take a variety of forms, but can be as simple as the data connection that your business already uses.
Depending on the service that your business chooses to use, many of the handset/headset options are surprisingly inexpensive. One benefit of using a VoIP provider in this regard is also that you are likely able to add additional hardware (handsets, headsets, etc.) as your need expands.
Service Options
Providers for VoIP phone systems range from applications available online to companies that operate in a similar manner to a traditional telephone service provider. The price range for these services can range from free (literally) for calls placed via the Internet, to a more involved on-premise system that requires a bit more in the way of hardware and support. Depending on your company’s needs, you may be able to find a VoIP solution for your business for a much lower price than you anticipate.
