Top Five VoIP Upgrade Opportunities
What’s the best time for a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) upgrade? To some IT managers, anytime is the right time to update the IP communications system. But some situations are especially ideal for a business telephone system upgrade. Budget-minded managers want to bear in mind these top five scenarios for a VoIP services upgrade.
1. Office Move
An office move or expansion invites reevaluation of the business telephone infrastructure. IT staff are already reconfiguring user workstations--it makes sense to reconfigure network system components at the same time. Workers are also likely to be in the right state of mind for an upgrade, as they transform old habits into more efficient work practices. Intellicom Analytics’ Mark Ricca comments: “A physical move is a great time to evaluate your current communications needs. You are already in the midst of rewiring and replugging, and there is a good chance you are in a growth mode.”
2. Merger & Acquisition
Integrating the IP communications infrastructure is one of the many logistical challenges of merging two businesses. A VoIP telephone system upgrade offers an easy way to reconcile the two networks under a single unified VoIP infrastructure. Or move to a hosted VoIP service, taking the issue of legacy phone systems off the table altogether.
3. Obsolete Equipment
Today’s VoIP business phone systems offer sophisticated solutions for integrating legacy equipment into a next-generation IP communications architecture. But at a certain point, obsolete telephone equipment inhibits worker productivity--either because of technical incompatibility or because of opportunity costs. Even if the old equipment still functions, its inability to support next-generation functionality could inhibit worker productivity. In other words, some companies lose their competitive advantage if they do not take advantage of the new systems.
4. Business Performance Problems
Managers who see red flags in key performance indicators--an increase in contact center wait times, a longer sales cycle, less repeat business--may have a communications bottleneck on their hands. A leading business VoIP provider explains, “Any issues that are caused by the challenge of coordinating activities or bringing resources to bear on a problem are common indicators your current system is failing.” A well-timed VoIP phone system upgrade can resolve the bottleneck and restore business performance.
5. Upgrade to the Data System
If your company plans to upgrade the data communications system, it makes sense to upgrade the VoIP communications system at the same time. Aligning both systems allows businesses to unleash the full capability of the technology. For example, a customer relationship management database relies on advanced IP communications for much of its advanced functionality.
Timing is everything when it comes to an IP communications upgrade. Make the most of your VoIP investment by updating your technology at these key transitional moments.
Sources
1 to 1 Media (PDF)