Resolution #35: Transition to VoIP

With the new year under way, many executives are resolving to get organized, reflect on the smart business decisions of 2006, and take a fresh look at improvements to make in 2007, including the investment in telecom equipment and services. 

More and more businesses are realizing the benefits of VoIP, which uses the Internet as the means of connectivity for applications such as Web and audio conferencing, and inexpensive long-distance and international phone calls.  If you are one of the many professionals planning to transition to VoIP in the near future, it is essential to first understand your business’ needs and the benefits and costs associated with deployment, before tackling the timing question.

Each business has different starting and ending points in the VoIP-transition process. While some companies may need to begin fresh with all new equipment, others may be able to upgrade their legacy systems to VoIP, without incurring the costs involved in a complete system replacement.  So, before you consider existing equipment as useless, consult a service provider to discuss how to leverage your assets.

Once you have partnered with a trusted service provider, evaluate your options to fit your company’s specific interests.  A standard VoIP package doesn’t exist, so you can select exactly what you need, including the level of flexibility in a plan.  As your business adjusts to the new technology, you will become more familiar with your needs and capabilities.  Having a flexible plan will allow you to make the necessary adjustments and maintain quality VoIP service on an ongoing basis.
           
With varying network capabilities, it is difficult to predict how your network will react to VoIP.  So, while you may know your business inside and out, an objective network assessment should be executed by professionals, prior to deployment.  Partner with a service provider that will assist you throughout the process, beginning with pre-implementation testing to determine how VoIP will impact the bottom line and quality of service.  The best service providers will invest the time and manpower to understand your business – from communication needs to overarching business drivers – to successfully launch VoIP services and make key recommendations and adjustments along the way to benefit your bottom line.  

Armed with the necessary knowledge and a trusted provider’s help, 2007 can be a year of achieved resolutions and return on investment for your company’s telecom system.

Effectively implementing IP-based solutions requires design, planning, engineering and execution by experienced, certified personnel.  Remember, the key is to first determine if VoIP is right for your business.  If the transition makes sense from a business perspective, seek professional help to determine the best mix of old and new equipment to optimize the positive impact on your balance sheet.  Insist on a reputable partner that can not only help your company to increase productivity and revenue as quickly as possible, but also one that will be there along the way to improve your VoIP services as you grow.