We can’t seem to ditch our business phone systems as much we would like to. They continue to play a critical role that cellular phones just can’t replace.
Although we can’t get rid of our business phones, we can implement systems that are more efficient and productive than ever before. They also can be cost effective if done properly.
Voice over Internet Protocol finally has come of age.
Traditionally, small businesses couldn’t afford to have all of the bells and whistles on their phone systems that big companies could. All of that changes when you go digital.
Instead of purchasing behemoth systems with a separate card for every feature, today’s VoIP systems have everything at hand – you decide what you features you need and simply switch them on.
Upping the ante
An advanced phone system creates a better image for small companies to potential and existing customers.
When customers encounter a well-designed interface, it not only saves their time, it saves yours. You can program your system to make initial transfers and screening to reduce or eliminate the need for a dedicated phone receptionist.
Making the decision to use a VoIP system is just the beginning. As with all things tech, there are a multitude of choices when it comes to providers. Some familiar names in the industry that offer proprietary systems include Vonage, Comcast Digital Voice and Skype.
Zap telemarketers
One of the largest sources of lost productivity in telecommunication is the dreaded telemarketer. Although the government offers the National Do Not Call Registry, it is only available to residences.
Businesses are harassed daily with recorded messages and telemarketers. A VoIP system such as Asterisk – the world’s leading open source system – can save you money and frustration by stopping these calls before they ring your phone.
The Asterisk system offers an application called Zapateller, which plays a special information tone at the beginning of a call, causing auto-dialers to think the line has been disconnected. Not only will they hang up, their systems will flag your number as out of service, helping you avoid future telemarketing calls.
This is just a simple example of some tricks when programming a VoIP system. The options are extensive and with a little time, you can customize a system to do exactly what you want, guaranteeing the best service to your customers, vendors and employees.
What to keep in mind
As with all systems, there are some caveats. Important considerations include the following:
Number portability: This is important if you need to keep your existing phone number.
911 service: Discuss it with your provider.
Faxing: Most VoIP systems do not support it, but there are other digital options.
You need a strong provider with adequate redundancy of power and transmission. It is not a good idea to base your corporate phone system out of a friend’s garage (although technically it could be done).
Business phone systems continue to be a necessary evil. Luckily, you have some new digital options that can help your company grow and present a more professional image to callers. If you do it right, you can increase your options and save some money.
Lori Griffiths is chief finance officer of Wild Web Works, which specializes in application design and programming. Call 360-882-9005 or visit www.wildwebworks.com for more information.
