Written by Craig Lansing

Communication is key in business, yet so many company owners are still using outdated systems to keep in touch with clients, colleagues and partners. If you’re not familiar with cutting-edge VOIP systems, and you’ve never heard of SIP trunks before, you may be eager to discover the incredible benefits of upgrading and updating your telephone system. Here’s a handy guide to help you decipher the acronyms, bust the jargon and explore the advantages of VOIP technology.

What is VOIP?

Running a business involves spinning a series of plates, and with technology advancing so quickly, it can be difficult to keep up with inventions and innovations. If you’re not already familiar with VOIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), this is a phone system that is run through the Internet, rather than via traditional phone lines. In the past, we depended on analog lines, but more and more businesses and organizations are switching to VOIP. 

What are SIP trunks?

SIP trunks are a protocol, which is used for VOIP technology. SIP stands for Session Initiation Protocol. This type of technology provides a modern alternative to ISDN lines and it can offer a raft of benefits for businesses across several sectors. With SIP trunks, a PBX (private branch exchange) is used to make and receive calls delivered through the Internet. In basic terms, the Internet replaces the phone lines of old, and voice calls and messages are converted to VOIP and run through the SIP trunks. 

The benefits of SIP trunking for businesses

Competition is fierce across all industries, and modern business owners are always on the hunt for ways to improve customer experience, to increase efficiency and to compete. In a world where technology is evolving constantly, it pays to be aware of the benefits of innovative upgrades, and SIP trunking is an excellent example. If you’re using outdated phone systems, and you’re searching for a means of reducing spending and improving customer experience, here are some key benefits to consider:

• Cost reduction: VOIP is a cost-effective alternative to conventional phone lines. With this form of technology, you can save on monthly fees, as well as reducing call charges. Each SIP trunk costs less than $20 per channel, and this includes unlimited local and national calls. Some providers also offer heavily-discounted international calling. According to a study carried out by PC World, the average company with 30 users can save around $1,200 per month by switching to VOIP. 

• Flexibility: SIP trunking provides greater flexibility, making it an ideal investment for businesses with offices in different locations and companies that deal with clients or suppliers overseas. With modern systems, you can move without changing your number, which helps to maintain continuity.

• Scalability: many small business and hotel owners have ambitions to grow and expand. With SIP trunking, you can scale your systems up as you grow. There is no need to worry about a sudden surge in orders or paying for services that you won’t use. You can increase capacity as and when you need to. 

• Cohesive communication: communication plays a critical role in ensuring the cogs keep turning in the right direction. If you have multiple teams, departments, offices, outlets or branches, it’s vital to have a communications system that promotes collaboration and clarity. SIP trunks are advantageous because they handle several different communication methods. You can make and receive video calls, but your system will also facilitate video conferencing, instant messages, voicemail, emails and text messages. 

• Simplicity: with SIP trunking, you don’t have to replace your existing phone system. SIP trunks work with your PBX and hardware systems. 

Making life easy: updating your current telephone system

Business owners have a lot on their plates. If you’re new to SIP trunks and VOIP, you might assume that upgrading your phone system is a hassle that you don’t have the time or energy to consider at the moment. The acronyms may seem complex, but in reality, it couldn’t be simpler to move from traditional systems to VOIP. There is no need to replace your existing PBX or hardware devices, as SIP trunking works with your current system. The integration and setup process is seamless, and your small business will start reaping the rewards instantly. In 2017, there were 1 billion VOIP users, and this figure is set to rise to 3 billion by 2021. 

Summary

If you’re not au fait with the latest in technological gadgetry and communications wizardry, it can be difficult to keep up with innovations and new systems. VOIP enables you to manage communications via the Internet, and it is an increasingly popular medium for businesses across the world. SIP trunking offers an efficient, seamless, cost-effective alternative to traditional telephone systems for hotels and small businesses looking to reduce spending, maximize profits and enhance employee and customer experience.

https://www.motionvoip.com/blog/what-are-sip-trunks