5 Things To Consider Before Switching To VoIP

What are your expected benefits from switching to a VoIP service?

Before you start your migration to a VoIP service you have to be totally clear on what you want from the move. Set targets for what you want from VoIP and move towards those targets. If you are rolling out VoIP within a large organization then survey your employees who will have to use the new VoIP phones. The feedback that you get from your new VoIP users is golden because it will give you increased direction on what you need to protect.

Do you have the available resources and inhouse expertise to implement VoIP?

VoIP is still a relatively new technology, so before you start to roll it out you should canvas your current IT department for expertise with regards VoIP. If you find that you already have VoIP experience within your current employees, then you should be able to progress relatively easily without having to bring in outside help. However, because of the nature of VoIP many small and medium businesses may not have the inhouse expertise required to setup a merged voice and data VoIP network themselves. If you find yourselves in this situation then it would be best to hire a specialist network consulting company who can either guide your installation or manage it from start to finish.

Planning is essential while you implement VoIP. Make sure you have plans laid for when your VoIP network is first phased in. If you encounter problems will your company still be able to communicate effectively both internally and externally?

Is your existing infrastructure ready for VoIP?

Are you sure that your existing network infrastructure is capable for the large increase in network traffic as your whole organization moves over to a merged voice and data service? Also, take into consideration your security measures. If your network came under attack or was exposed to a virus you could lose all communications from email to voice. Plan for the worst case scenario so that in the event of attack, you can deal with it. Just like data, voice communications will be susceptible to breaches of network security.

Are your staff rady for the change?

While everybody currently knows how to use a traditional landline phone, most are still not au-fait with VoIP. Have you trained your staff to use your new system so that when it is implemented they can continue their work? Also consider whether it will be necessary to hire new tech support staff who can help with your staff through the transition.

What will happen to your business if communications are disrupted?

Are you prepared for when your network encounters a problem and calls are interrupted? When you migrate to a VoIP solution you must be prepared to deal with a voice outage because of network problems. Plan for the future so that in the event of emergency, your company knows exactly what to do.