Doing business in the 21st century means companies need to be smarter, more agile, and open to flexibility – especially when it comes to communication. Over 52% of businesses still consider phone systems to be their primary communication tool.1 But for many companies that have embraced remote and hybrid work models, traditional PBX systems just can’t keep up.
The good news is that VoIP phone systems make communicating easier than ever, no matter where your employees are located.
Many of our customers have asked if they can use their laptops to take advantage of VoIP phone systems. It’s a great question, one that’s important to understand so you can always be “just a phone call away” for your clients. In this blog, we’ll discuss how VoIP enables voice calling from anywhere, the benefits of switching to a cloud phone solution, and best practices when using a VoIP phone system to make calls.
Can I Use My Laptop for Calling With a VoIP Phone System?
The short answer is: Yes!
You can use virtually any device, including your laptop, desktop, tablet, or Mac, to make and receive phone calls using a VoIP phone system.
It’s actually pretty simple. You just download software called a softphone, which uses VoIP phone technology to facilitate voice calls over the internet. Softphones provide an interface that mimics a traditional desk phone, so all you have to do is speak into your phone or headset for it to work.
Most computers can easily handle the software, which provides all the features of landline phones and more, such as video calls, SMS/MMS, and instant messaging.
However, your cloud phone system might not include both Windows and Mac-based software. If you use all Mac products, you might want to look into this ahead of time. Generally, the software will always be available for Windows computers, but it may not include Mac-based software.
The other thing to consider is that softphones may be an additional charge above and beyond your VoIP setup. Some providers may charge a monthly fee for an extension on your computer, while others build it into the cost of the system. Again, always ask up front if you think softphones will be important for your business.
Benefits of Using a VoIP Phone System
Remote and hybrid work environments have become the standard for businesses across the world. But as more SMBs embrace flexible working models, it’s clear that outdated PBX phone systems don’t cut it anymore.
VoIP technology allows more companies to leverage the benefits of cloud phone solutions. A few of the top benefits include:
Remote Work Support
VoIP phone systems are essential for businesses looking to support the new way of remote and hybrid work . The ability to perform work remotely is the most important VoIP benefit according to 57% of businesses , 2 and it’s easy to see why. These systems are easy to set up and use right away with softphone technology, enabling employees to connect from any device, anywhere.
Cost-Savings
Businesses save an average of 30% to 50% after switching to a VoIP phone system.3 Cloud phone solutions don’t require a costly infrastructure or ongoing hardware maintenance like on-premise PBX systems. Plus, many providers offer subscription-based plans so that you only pay for what you use. However, it’s important to remember that the savings each company will see depends on several factors, including business size and the previous system.
Scalability
With on-premise PBX systems, adding lines for new employees or locations is time-consuming and expensive. Since cloud phone systems are software-based, businesses can easily scale their communications up or down depending on their needs without having to invest in additional hardware or infrastructure modifications.
Advanced Features
Thanks to VoIP, voice calling over the internet is simple. However, one of the biggest advantages of cloud phone systems is the number of features they offer.Advanced features like business texting, video conferencing, and CRM integrations help businesses improve communication and collaboration beyond calling, and they often come standard in cloud phone solutions.
Productivity
With all the features offered through the cloud, VoIP phone systems can improve business productivity by up to 77%.1 The range of communication tools included allows employees to communicate more effectively, ultimately simplifying operations and improving efficiency.
Best Practices for Calling on a VoIP Phone System
Just because you can use your computer for VoIP calls doesn’t always mean you should.
We always recommend using a high-quality headset to ensure you get the best possible sound. If you’re planning on using the laptop's built-in microphone and speakers, you – and the person you’re calling – might not have the best experience.
Another issue we see customers running into is call quality. Call quality is directly related to the quality of your network and internet connection. You should be fine if you’re using a decent, private internet connection. However, your internet connection may be limited if you’re sitting at a coffee shop, which can cause poor audio quality. Similarly, 4G LTE with full service should be okay, while 3G or 1X might not cut it.
When in doubt, test it out. Try calling your office or cell to ensure your audio quality is good before placing an important call. We all know how crucial it is to have a crystal-clear phone call when talking to customers.
Upgrade Your Communications With a Cloud Phone System
TeleCloud’s comprehensive, flexible cloud phone systems are custom-built to provide businesses with fully integrated solutions. We help you work smarter, not harder, with communication tools that improve your business performance and processes.
Our cloud phone solutions offer:
- Improved mobility with our app-based communication technology that allows your employees to connect from anywhere, anytime.
- Optimized agent performance with a suite of call center functionality that automatically manages and distributes customer service calls.
- Simplified management with a state-of-the-art central hub that allows you to optimize employee efficiencies from anywhere.
- CRM integration to easily exchange data between platforms – such as Salesforce, Microsoft Teams, and others – and gain new insights.
- Enhanced collaboration with tools that keep your teams and clients connected, including HD video, audio, file sharing, messaging, and more.
To learn more about using a VoIP phone system to improve your business communications, shoot our vice president an e-mail at vin@telecloud.net , give him a call on his direct line at 908-378-1218 , or contact our team using the button below.
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