VoIP (voice-over-IP) providers are quite useful for startups and small businesses. This is especially the case in modern times since we need to comply with the use of SIP (shelter-in-place) protocols so that social distancing is ensured after the effects of the pandemic.
You surely want to choose a very good VoIP service but how do you do this when there are so many providers on the market? The services of one might be great for a small business but not really useful for you.
Plans And Pricing
We should talk about costs first because this is what counts the most for most businesses. Obviously, plans will cost different amounts based on what is included and who offers the service. This means you need to choose something that is appropriate for your circumstances.
The trick to figuring out what a good package is for you is to look at much more than just the price. Consider the features that you need. When you blindly focus on price, the natural wish to save leads to bad choices.
Collaboration Tools
Different collaboration tools are available. Employees use them to work together online, interact, and meet. Basic packages include things like SMS texting or online meeting collaboration. They are very good when you operate a small business. However, as the business grows, extra capabilities might be needed.
For instance, with video conferencing, you can easily share a screen for a presentation. With newer technology, the attendee can annotate shared documents. There are countless advanced capabilities available and you can even use third-party tools.
Call Management
VoIP platforms keep improving, with new features being tailored for various audiences. You will not necessarily find the call management features you expect in different packages. What is important is to find those options that are really good for you.
As an example, when you need to handle several calls at the same time, there is a pretty good possibility you will need call queuing. In other cases, you need features like extension management, which assigns extensions and manages name directories, together with others.
Third-Party Integration
Adding VoIP to a system you already have is not as easy as you might think. The VoIP provider you choose needs to offer some pre-built integrations that are suitable for you. This practically means that you have to see if the apps you now use can be integrated with what you get from the VoIP provider.
As an example, it is common for VoIP to now work with Google Drive, Dropbox, and Desk.com. But you might need something else.
Support
Last but not least, the service you are given is going to be crucial to the functioning of all services. You should be able to contact the customer support department at any point of day or night, preferably via phone. Email support tickets should always be in place and you might want to also be given 24/7 live support through a chat system.
Obviously, when your business is larger, you need more support.
The trick is to locate VoIP service providers that guarantee queries are answered as fast as possible. When this is not offered, you need to look for what you need somewhere else. This is especially the case in the event that the phone system used is your main way of getting in touch with your clients.
Conclusions
Always think about the features that were highlighted above when you choose your VoIP provider. At the same time, make a list of everything else you need and see if it is offered or not. Remember that your needs are surely unique. Never choose a service provider simply because someone else recommended it. Do your research!
