Using VoIP to Save on IT Costs

Using VoIP to Save on IT Costs

VoIP has truly come a long way since its inception. In fact, continuous improvements and new features have made VoIP superior to traditional phone systems. Probably the great advantage of utilizing these applications is reduction in IT costs. These savings are seen across several areas in businesses.

Reduced Infrastructure Setup Costs

VoIP technologies can definitely lower infrastructure costs. In fact, legacy phone systems are extremely expensive for companies – especially new startups. The same is also true for existing organizations that move into new buildings and have to restructure their existing infrastructure. If planning to switch over from legacy to VoIP, the following information will help make the transition smoother:

• Most VoIP systems run under $200 and are easily compatible with your existing infrastructure.
• VoIP applications offer more features – including file transfers, call-forwarding, video conferencing and more.
• VoIP phones are truly the cost-effective alternative to pricey land-based business lines.

Reduced IT Costs

Traditional phone systems are expensive to set up for most businesses. However, the continual need for IT support costs even more. In fact, the average company spends around $1,500 a year per employee on IT costs. The average small business spends over $2,700 per employee on IT expenses as well. 

VoIP can drastically lower these figures across the board. While legacy systems require onsite IT professionals to manage hardware and software – VoIP services are hosted. This means businesses can depend on outsourced vendors to tackle all upgrades from remote locations. In addition, there is little to no downtime with VoIP, while traditional phone systems can be impacted by harsh weather and other elements.

Better Scalability

One of the biggest mistakes startups neglect is considering scalability. From VoIP and CRM to ERP, it is important for businesses to understand the costs behind expanding infrastructure. No truer is this than when new companies grow, which requires more money to facilitate IT services and costs. With this in mind, here are few benefits of deploying VoIP for scalability purposes:

• VoIP exists on the Internet and requires no additional hardware to facilitate scalability.
• Vendors simply need to increase data to meet client or company needs.
• Legacy systems will see IT costs rise when adding new components – VoIP keeps IT costs low at every turn.

Better Telecommuting Options

Many businesses invest in VoIP to secure better telecommuting options. In fact, hosted phone services allow employees to access documents via wireless, remote and digital devices. This means they do not have to physically be in the office to meet company directives and objectives. Since employees will be using their own devices – IT expenditures for repairing work-related devices significantly drops. Other benefits of VoIP for businesses include:

• Telecommuters will be responsible for maintaining their own devices (anti-virus software, OS updates, etc.)
• Employers only need to ensure their VoIP platforms are current and up to date for all workers.
• Businesses can determine VoIP access eligibility and restrictions for departments – this helps ensure maximum security and confidentiality.