Working from home or telecommuting has been a popular option among companies. Businesses are beginning to realize that their employees are happier and productive with this new setup. Aside from happy workers, employers are also enjoying the benefits of allowing their workers to telecommute. Some of these perks include savings from overhead costs and attracting the best talent for their workforce. It’s a viable option, especially given today’s “new normal.”
However, one of the biggest challenges for telecommuting is communication. Email and other digital forms of communication are available, but businesses need a stable and reliable tool to communicate. Enter Voice over Internet Protocol or VoIP. What is it, and how can it help SMEs?
VoIP Basics
Voice over Internet Protocol utilizes packets of data to communicate with other connected devices. It was used solely to make overseas voice calls possible. But today, VoIP can now send a variety of file types (documents, audio, video, and photos). Apps such as Zoom, FaceTime, Messenger, and Skype were based on VoIP technology. Some companies still use OpenVox PBX for their telephony needs as it can support GSM technologies for their businesses.
Why VoIP?
Aside from allowing two-way communication over the Internet, VoIP is scalable and allows for future expansion. Everything can be stored online through cloud storage. It’s cheaper because it requires less hardware since VoIP already cloud-compliant. Another benefit of using this technology is mobility. Wherever employers and their employees are, they can communicate with each other in real time—no need to be at the office to hold meetings. Virtual meetings are more convenient.
VoIP helped change how employers, employees, and clients communicate with each other. It’s cost-effective, scalable, and ideal for off-site work arrangements. Since working from home has become today’s “new normal,” here are the reasons why companies and SMEs should invest in VoIP:
Security – one of the biggest concerns of both employers and workers is online security. Some documents and data are sensitive and sharing them over the Internet can open doors for hackers to intrude. VoIP can be secured through a virtual private network or VPN. It only allows users with verified credentials to join an online conference. The meeting and transfer of data between users can be monitored remotely by an IT security specialist. Suspicious activities can be easily identified and kicked from the network.
Virtual Collaborations – in a typical on-site setting, face-to-face meetings were critical for decision-making and generating new business ideas. With VoIP, virtual collaborations are possible, thanks to real-time video conferencing. Remote workers can hold meetings at any time and from the comforts of their home offices. They can talk to customers and clients to ensure that deals are closed without the fear of disruptions. Everyone benefits from flexibility and convenience.
Compatible with Mobile Applications – the best thing about VoIP is that it isn’t tied to one device (e.g., desktops and laptops). It can be used with most mobile applications to allow more natural communication—no need to stay in one place just to join a teleconference or virtual meeting. Anyone can be anywhere and still perform their tasks for the day.
VoIP’s advantages don’t end with these. It can be tweaked and adjusted based on a company’s needs and help its employees become more productive.
VoIP has evolved from its Internet telephony roots to a useful digital communication tool. It helped empower businesses to adapt to the changing times while still providing work for their employees. Embracing this technology means embracing a secure future.
