Once the decision to switch to VoIP communications has been made, there are still some important things to be considered. This includes determining what specific services to install and how those services can be deployed to enhance business operations.

What to consider when planning VoIP:

1. Business Demands – It is important that the solutions selected today will still be effective in the future. Choosing a system that can be scaled up or down is one concern. Another is the capability of expanding the service into other locations. Understanding the long-term goals of the company is crucial to establishing the most effective VoIP systems.

2. Calling Features – The list of features available through VoIP phone systems is more extensive than those available through traditional phone systems. In addition to the traditional features like caller ID or call waiting, businesses can also choose from services such as email-to-voicemail and automatic call rerouting. For small companies, choosing the right features can mean the difference between affordable VoIP deployment and excessive costs.

3. Cost Considerations – Consider the cost associated with the type of VoIP system being considered. For most businesses, a hosted VoIP installation will result in reduced costs. Hosted services free businesses from costs including maintaining the system, managing equipment life cycles, and deployment expenses.

4. Integration – Make certain the the VoIP system being deployed is compatible with company applications or utilities. This includes direct integration with CRM and ERP apps as well as compatibility with APIs already in use by the organization. Where specific services are not compatible, find out whether there are existing work-arounds that address the problem in a satisfactory manner.

5. Mobility – One of the popular aspects of a hosted VoIP system is the ability to transparently reroute calls to any phone, anywhere. From voice communications to total task collaboration, including mobile capability has huge potential for many businesses.

6. Service Expectations – Service Level Agreements, or SLAs, define the precise services the company will be entitled to. This includes such items as speed, quality, and dependability of the VoIP system. Having the most affordable phone system is only a benefit if services are available when needed.

VoIP offers many advantages over traditional phone systems. However, VoIP must be carefully implemented to receive the most value from use. The considerations listed here are not the only concerns for deploying VoIP, but they will solve common problems that may occur.