Phone Solutions for Small Business

Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP)

• VoIP is changing the way the world communicates. It allows you to talk via a computer or smartphone by converting analog audio signals (what you hear on landline phones) into digital data that transmits over the Internet. Traditional landline systems make phone calls, have voice mail, fax and conference calling. VoIP allows your business to do everything a traditional landline does plus video calling, conference video calling, file transfers (unlimited size), screen sharing and instant messaging.

Popular VoIP Providers

• The VoIP market is highly competitive, which means more options for your business. Each VoIP provider has slightly different offerings, so make sure you analyze each carefully before committing. The most popular VoIP providers geared toward small businesses are Skype, Vonage, Google Talk, iChat, Jajah, and Packet 8.

Cell Phones

• Constantly improving cellular phone technology is eliminating the need for landlines. For many businesses just starting out or with few employees, using cell phones in lieu of landline systems has several benefits. Many businesses like the practicality of having a single number as well as the mobility that cell phones provide. However, cell phones do have a drawback in terms of reliability. Make sure your cell phone provider has adequate coverage in your area.

IP PBX

• A private branch exchange (PBX) is a mini telephone network within a company that organizes several telephone lines instead of having a single phone line for every desk or cubicle. Internet protocol PBX (IP PBX) is a PBX infused with VoIP support. Some of the benefits include cost reductions over traditional PBX systems, scalability and the capability of handling data as well as phone calls. Some IP PBX systems can synchronize with MS Outlook.