The National Broadband Network (NBN) is due to be introduced in the next 12 to 36 months (or so depending on what you read and where your business is located) and this will have significant implications for businesses and individuals.
As well as making the internet faster and more accessible, the NBN is likely to transform traditional and internet telephone systems and if you are considering upgrading or changing your system it may be worth waiting to see what becomes available.
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a technology that has been around for a while and enables users to save money by using their existing internet connection to make and receive calls. The introduction of the NBN is likely to transform VoIP and provide a big boost to internet phone technology, making internet phone services faster and more reliable and enabling businesses to save money and enjoy a range of features which aren’t available on current phone systems.
Whether you are looking for a new phone system or are planning to upgrade in the future, there are a number of factors you should look for in a phone system which can help your business run more smoothly both now and adapt to future developments in technology.
No contracts
Flexibility is essential for most businesses and the last thing you want is to be locked in to a long term commitment for a plan which doesn’t work for your business. You can’t always predict changes to your organisation so make sure you choose a phone system which gives you freedom to change if and when you need to.
Mobile handsets
Rather than being confined to your desk to make and receive calls, a system with a mobile handset facility means that you can receive calls even when you are away from your desk. No more running across the office floor to answer that ringing phone and no more missed calls means smoother and more efficient business processes for everyone.
Virtual
Many businesses rely on virtual technologies such as videoconferencing for their day to day operations. There are a number of phone systems available which have a virtual capacity and allow you to make video calls, access your phone system and contacts from remote locations and perform regular backups so no information is lost.
Compatible with multiple providers
Unlike traditional phone systems, with VoIP there is no need to be locked in to using one provider. If you are choosing a phone system, make sure you get one that is compatible with a number of different providers – there should be no reason to have to purchase specific hardware if you change providers. This flexibility means that you can actively seek the best value deals for your business.
Locally designed and manufactured
You don’t want to be constantly upgrading your phone system hardware so make sure you choose something that is good quality and if possible locally manufactured.
If you are reconsidering your phone system make sure that whatever system you use in the near future has the ability to keep up with technology and make use of the likely changes to VoIP in the future.
