Cloud telephony is on the grow, with more and more small businesses taking it up – not least because it makes remote working much easier.
With a cloud-based VoIP phone system, you make and receive phone calls over the Internet instead of via traditional copper landlines. There are lots of additional features that come with VoIP too, and with the landline switch-off coming there’s no better time to make the jump.
What Is a Cloud-Based VoIP Phone System, Exactly?
A cloud-based VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) system, sometimes called a hosted PBX or cloud PBX, converts your voice into digital data and sends it over your internet connection rather than a copper telephone line. Instead of housing the technology that powers your phone lines on-site, your provider hosts it in secure, off-site data centres and delivers it to you as a service- much like Netflix delivers video or Gmail delivers email.
In practice, this means you can make and take business calls through:
- A physical VoIP handset plugged into your router or network
- A softphone app on your desktop
- A mobile app on your smartphone, using your business number over Wi-Fi or mobile data
Because the “phone system” is really just software running in the cloud, it can be reconfigured, scaled or moved in minutes rather than requiring an engineer visit.
VoIP Is More Flexible
VoIP phone systems are very flexible as they aren’t tied to a specific location. The Cloud-based technology allows users to have quick access to their phone systems from anywhere they have internet access. So you can take calls from your smartphone or tablet too. It also means you can travel or move locations without the stress of missing important calls or meetings, even out of hours.
VoIP Is More Cost-Effective
VoIP phone systems can also save your business money. The fact you’re signing up to a monthly package, like you do with your mobile phone, helps you keep track of your spending. Without physical hardware, VoIP phone systems also remove any installation fees associated with a more traditional phone system.
Predictable Monthly Billing
Signing up to a monthly package, much like a mobile phone contract, makes it far easier to track and forecast spending than the mix of line rental, call charges and maintenance fees that come with traditional phone lines.
No Hardware Investment
Without physical PBX cabinets and cabling, cloud VoIP removes the large upfront installation costs associated with a traditional phone system- where hardware alone can run into thousands of pounds.
Cheaper Calls, Especially Long-distance
Calls routed over the internet, particularly to other VoIP users or international numbers, are typically far cheaper than the equivalent call over a traditional network.
Lower Maintenance Overhead
There’s no on-site hardware to service, so you’re not paying an engineer every time something needs updating.
VoIP Is More Dynamic
The digital work world is always evolving. With a cloud-based VoIP phone system, the technology can evolve with you. These systems can grow alongside your company, especially if you’re looking to take on more staff or move premises. Due to the digital nature of the product, updates, upgrades, and plan expansions are easily accessible.
VoIP Phone Systems Come With Lots of Business-Friendly Features
As we’ve already touched on, cloud-based VoIP systems also provide customers with more call features than a traditional phone system. These features include call menus, call queues, hold music, video meetings and much more. VoIP systems also contain features that reveal call analytics and trends through call reports, allowing companies to better understand their business and customers.
VoIP Is Easy To Set Up
Setting up a VoIP phone system can be done fully remotely and requires no extra cost. It is as simple as signing up online and letting the calls flow in. All you need is a stable internet connection (preferably fibre) and a VoIP provider that makes this process easy, and efficient.
What to Look for When Choosing a Cloud VoIP Provider
Not all cloud VoIP providers are equal, so it’s worth checking a few things before you commit:
- Network reliability and uptime: ask what uptime the provider guarantees and how they handle outages.
- UK-based support: when a call system goes down, you want a real person to speak to quickly.
- Transparent pricing: check what’s included as standard versus what’s a paid add-on.
- Contract flexibility: look for providers who won’t lock you into a long contract you can’t get out of if your needs change.
- Integration with your existing tools: particularly your CRM, helpdesk or e-commerce platform.
Ready To Try Out VoIP For Free?
We understand that choosing the right provider isn’t always the easiest decision.
That’s why bOnline offers a free 7-day trial, allowing you to test out all the cutting-edge VoIP features on offer without the commitment. You’ve got nothing to lose.
Don’t forget, you’re also welcome to call our friendly expert team if you need us, on 0203 617 9950.
