Do you VoIP?
VoIP is a generic, umbrella term covering a hobbyist’s need to place calls and communicate over the Internet all the way to full-fledged, PSTN replacement networks. Transportation of voice is expensive over most traditional communication networks and that’s where VoIP comes in to reduce these costs dramatically. According to a research release from the Multi-switching Forum[1], VoIP typically carries voice over the Internet Protocol – to keep it simple. However, that’s underestimating the true function and the benefits VoIP brings to an organization, especially where efficiency of voice transportation and cost reduction is concerned. Here are the key benefits of VoIP:
It makes convergence happen: Conventional PSTN networks cannot bring about convergence in voice and data and allow end users to enjoy these benefits simultaneously. However, VoIP networks use IP as a networking technology and help to deploy a vast range of services based on voice and data or both together cost effectively, simply and effectively. For instance, IP based services such as email and Internet Messaging can be integrated into voice applications seamlessly.
VoIP Lends more than its voice: VoIP networks don’t stop delivering just at data and voice convergence. That data translates into a plethora of other services such as multimedia support, cost effective video conferencing, streaming video, gaming and many other applications for almost no cost. IP applications and equipment is lighting fast which makes using the above mentioned applications even more pleasurable and exciting.
VoIP props existing infrastructures by several notches up: Network operators, Infrastructure managers, IT hardware executives in small and medium enterprises can use IP Centrex services, for instance, and help bring in cost effective replacements for their incumbent PBX infrastructure. Further, VoIP leverages network capacity for carrying data across while it’s typically quicker and much more efficient than ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) or TDM-based equipment which is fast and efficient by itself.
Third-party API Integration: VoIP products usually encourage third-party developers to develop applications and can support service creation environments on structured open source networks. This encourages innovation, stiff competition, and a range of services and applications hitherto unheard of over legacy TDM or other telephony systems.
VoIP networks can truly be a blessing for your business operations. As an aside, here is more about the benefits of a VoIP network, from cio.com [2]. However, it doesn’t come without its own problems (another post, perhaps?). Have you used VoIP for your business? Do you see discernable advantages while using it?
[1] Multi-switching Forum: Next Generation VoIP Network Architecture
[2] Is It Time To Connect VoIP Into Your IT/Business Strategy?
714-333-9620