There was once a time when VoIP was considered strictly a personal communication device –and sometimes, not even that. When it was first released to the public, the service was unstable and tended to have questionable call quality. Many calls would drop off unexpectedly, and even the ones that managed to maintain connection sounded quite bad… fuzzy, tinny, and echoing are all accurate adjectives. That time – the time when VoIP was regarded as a novelty rather than a viable business solution – is in the past.
Today, VoIP is a powerful communication tool that can be used by businesses of all sizes. VoIP service providers are able to offer low-cost and high quality services augmented by a rich array of features. More and more professionals are recognizing the incredible communication potential offered by the service, and a recent study from Juniper Research indicates that, by the year 2017, over 1 billion over-the-top users will be using VoIP. Its consumer base is also steadily increasing, and progressed by 30.5 percent in 2013.
With all of the features and convenience that VoIP offers, why isn’t everyone jumping on the VoIP solutions bandwagon? The truth is that there is a bit of a learning curve required to truly take advantage of all that the service can offer. Are you considering making the switch? If so, you’ve come to the right place! Take a moment and read through our list of the most common mistakes that businesses make, and how they can be avoided.
Take the Time to Ensure your Security is Top-Notch
The idea that security is an important part of every business isn’t a new one. Ever since the first viruses were released, people have been discussing the various threats and, correspondingly, the new advances in technology that can help keep data safe. Many people take the time to ensure that their computer systems and other professional service platforms are free from malware and viruses, but far fewer make sure that their VoIP services are held to the same standard.
This is the number one mistake that you should avoid. When improperly secured, VoIP services can be blamed for extensive compromises in security that include denial of service (DOS) attacks and even a form of phishing known as vishing. Vishing includes the use of malicious and duplicitous social engineering techniques in order to hijack important, personal information. It is even possible for conversations taking place over a VoIP systems to be listened to by third-parties. These individuals quietly listen along until the chance comes to steal information like credit card numbers.
Forgetting Fees
One of the main advantages of implementing VoIP phone system is the cost-effective nature of the service. Like all services, however, it’s the small, hidden costs that have the potential to create a huge bill. Make sure that you pay attention to any additional fees that you will be charged in the event of technical support, additional licenses, or the use of extra features.
Don’t Underestimate Bandwidth
VoIP solutions require the use of a decent amount of bandwidth. The exact amount depends upon your needs and uses, of course, but don’t make the mistake of underestimating the bandwidth necessary to successfully implement this kind of communication system. Attempting to run a VoIP solution with inadequate resources will result in poor call quality and dropped calls – both great ways to frustrate customers.
To avoid making this particular mistake, it’s important that you take the time to completely assess your network before implementing VoIP. Make sure to take into account things like traffic congestion, and consider implementing service quality techniques to ensure that traffic remains evenly spread across the network.
No Disaster Recovery Plan
This is an issue that plagues many businesses, regardless of their communication systems. Management continually neglects investing into a proper disaster recovery plan until after the emergencies happen and data is lost. Luckily, VoIP products are uniquely situated to be easily replicated and implemented elsewhere in the event that a storm or other disaster does strike.
Carefully Consider your Needs
VoIP solutions are scalable systems that can be tailored to specific needs – assuming you know what those needs are. Don’t run up your bill with features that sound really interesting, but you probably won’t ever use. Stick to the basics: call forwarding, audio conferencing, and auto attendants are all vital features to consider using.
VoIP is an ever-evolving, stable communications solution that is full of features that can help you create the professional, comprehensive communication experience that you want to give to your customers. Take the time to research your options, your needs, and your current network before making the switch, and reap the benefits of a flexible and cost-effective solution.
