Many businesses are looking for ways to reduce costs, and a great place to start looking is by switching to IP telephony. Traditional PBX systems are isolated from the data network, which means the PBX hardware in the server room is directly connected to the user’s desk phone. At a basic level, PBX systems require separate wiring from the data network, which can turn simple repairs and maintenance a juggling act between your telephony and IT providers.
IP telephony, on the other hand, uses the same cabling as the data network, and combines voice and data on a common infrastructure. It also enables integration between your voice and data networks as well. IP telephony also adapts the client/server approach. That means that desk phones, softphones and telephony gateways all connect to an IP telephony server. Much like data servers, this allows for features such as remote administration and centralized architecture.
If your business has multiple locations, IP telephony could help reduce the amount of hardware and administration involved at each location. Your telephony server could be housed in your data center while each satellite location would only require a remote gateway to connect to the telephone network.
Probably the most compelling reason to switch to IP telephony besides the potential cost savings is the ability to integrate voice communications with enterprise applications and services. For example, a customer relationship management (CRM) program could integrate with the IP telephony system enabling automatic call logging when a customer service rep speaks to a client.
If your company is looking to reduce telephony costs, IP telephony be the right choice for you. Minneapolis-based OAC Technology has been helping small- to medium-sized businesses save on telephony bills for 10 years. We can help your technology meet your business needs while maximizing your IT dollars at the same time. Contact us today for a free consultation. We will review your telephone bills and make recommendations on ways to save without sacrificing reliability or function.
