SIP trunking (short for Session Initiation Protocol trunking) allows you to send and receive phone calls over the internet. This is possible through the use of a Voice over Internet Protocol and streaming media service based on the SIP which allows Internet Telephony Service Providers to gain a stable connection.
Is it right for my business?
If you’re operating a small business that needs to adhere to a strict budget, you may be wary of adopting any new kind of technology in the fear it could mean having to replace your current communications system. Not only does this sound like an added expense you don’t want to deal with, but it could also cause disruptions to your business.
However, unlike traditional solutions which can take several days or more to properly install, SIP trunks can be created on the day ready for use almost immediately. Provided you have the sufficient bandwidth required, the quality of calls you can expect should be equal to your previous solution but it will be cheaper than traditional telephony services. This is because SIP-based systems make use of your internet connection, which you’re likely already paying for. Now, though, you’ll no longer need to pay for additional line rental from your telephony company as well as this. And the best thing is, your customers won’t know that anything has changed on their end.
What are the other benefits of SIP Trunking?
Businesses adopting SIP trunking aren’t only adopting the technology to lower overheads either. You’ll also be able to take advantage of several useful features such as:
Less restrictions – After proper set-up, you’ll no longer be constrained by your local exchange area and the numbers it provides. Instead, a service provider like PackNet could give you access to numbers from London, Birmingham, or Manchester all sent to your office no matter where it’s located in the country. Customer surveys have shown that having a recognisable or local area code can make a big difference to businesses by making them appear more professional and appealing to consumers.
More possibilities – SIP trunking is limited to only phone calls. With the right software applications in place you can also incorporate video calls and other streaming media applications such as desktop sharing, web conferencing, and a shared whiteboard. This makes it much easier for employees based in different locations to collaborate on projects, improving productivity and creating a more efficient workflow.
Overall, SIP trunking is a highly lucrative business technology that many SMEs seem to overlook. With competition higher than ever, there’s all the more reason to switch to this low-cost and feature-pack alternative. Has your businesses considered making the switch? Let us know about your experience in the comments below.
