VoIP is an interesting concept. Lets see - we can make calls pc to pc or phone to pc for free or at a minimal cost. Vontage, Skype, and a host of other carriers are making it simplier and cheaper to impliment with less pain and more gain. So lets make the move, why wait?
1. What about our phone system that we have already purchased and invested money in?
2. How do we integrate exsisting software and technolgy with VoIP?
3. Security issues? Network bandwidth? etc. etc.
There are so many questions, but the risk is minimal.
Why?
Since VoIP transfers information over the network it is easier to integrate with other applications that are based on the network. Plus its cheaper to make phone calls.
How?
Cisco and Avaya have installed hundreds if not thousands of systems in 2005 and industry experts expect huge growth over the next 6 years. So there are many experts on VoIP already, consulting firms, individuals etc, whom can be hired to help you implement VoIP. It is no longer a mystery, the man behind the curtain has been exposed.
The greatest advantage to a small business when converting to VoIP may not be just the price but all the applications that they can pile onto their network for 1/4 of the price: voice recording, crm, even your phone applications can be easily integrated with your voice stream that is produced by incoming calls.
Bruce Kaskey is a founder of OrecX, has 20 years experience in the software and technology sectors. http://www.orecx.com