With the advent of internet-based voice communication software, more and more companies have been asking whether or not they should get rid of their desk phones and replace them with softphones. A softphone is a piece of software that allows a user to place phone calls using the internet. Popular softphones include Skype, Google Talk and MagicJack. In order to make a telephone call using a softphone, you will need a computer running the softphone software equipped with a speaker and microphone (or a traditional phone hooked up to a USB adapter) and a high-speed internet connection.
One of the advantages of using softphones is that they are typically much less expensive than traditional phone service and VoIP service. On top of that, headsets are much less expensive than a desk phone. Another reason why companies entertain the idea of switching to softphones is that they are highly portable. Installing a softphone on a laptop or smartphone enables a user to stay connected to the home office with little effort.
If your company has been considering softphones or if a trusted vendor of yours is recommending you make the switch, you may want to consider why so many companies are not making the switch even though portability and cost savings are significant benefits.
It is important to realize that softphones are not VoIP phones. VoIP is more like traditional PBX systems with the exception of using the internet to transfer voice data instead of hardlines. So with a VoIP service, your users are still using a traditional desk phone. And after 150 years of history, the telephone is still the easiest way to make and receive calls–your users are comfortable using them. With a softphone, your users must have their computer booted up and running in order to make and receive calls, and never mind the loss of service should their computer lock up unexpectedly.
If your company is looking for a way to reduce telephone costs, softphones may or may not be the right choice for you. Minneapolis-based OAC Technology has been helping small- to medium-sized businesses save on telephone 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.
