For decades, plain old telephone service (POTS) has been the standard for business communications, but this legacy technology can hold your business back today. This is why many organizations are switching to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) — the modern, efficient, and cost-effective solution that’s changing the game.
POTS vs. VoIP: What to know before you switch
POTS is your traditional landline phone system. While still reliable, it simply cannot meet the needs of modern businesses. From high costs to limited scalability, the shortcomings of POTS are becoming increasingly apparent, especially as organizations grow and evolve.
In contrast, VoIP ditches the copper wires and analog signals that POTS rely on, powering voice calls with broadband internet connection. This not only reduces costs but also offers better sound quality and additional features such as video calls, voicemail-to-email, and more.
When should you make the switch to VoIP?
If you’re thinking about whether or not your business should invest in VoIP, look for these signs:
Increasing phone bills
POTS can be more expensive than VoIP. Hidden fees and per-minute charges for long-distance and international calls can quickly inflate your phone bill. The upkeep of aging phone lines and outdated equipment also requires ongoing investment, diverting resources from core business functions.
Conversely, VoIP can offer substantial savings. It leverages the internet for communication, often providing unlimited calls at a fraction of the cost. Plus, with features such as call recording and analytics, it gives you valuable insights into your communication patterns, enabling you to make better spending decisions.
Read also: Important VoIP costs to consider
Limited scalability
Your communication needs will inevitably change when your business grows. This could be a problem if you’re still relying on POTS systems, which are notoriously rigid and challenging to scale. Adding new lines alone will require significant investment in infrastructure and hardware.
On the other hand, VoIP systems are flexible and scalable by design. Whether you’re adding a single user or opening a new office, you can easily expand your communication network by requesting your provider to scale up your VoIP plan.
Outdated technology
Because technology is advancing at a rapid pace, supporting your systems with outdated systems can put your business at a competitive disadvantage. POTS only offers basic voice communication, but VoIP provides a suite of advanced features. VoIP can be used for instant messaging and video conferencing, and it also seamlessly integrates with other business applications. If your current phone system feels like it’s stuck in the past, switching to VoIP can bring your business communications into the modern era.
Remote work challenges
POTS is tied to physical locations, making it difficult for remote employees to stay connected on the go. VoIP solutions, on the other hand, offer unparalleled mobility. With just an internet connection, employees can make and receive calls from anywhere using their laptops, smartphones, or VoIP-enabled devices. This offers the flexibility necessary for maintaining productivity and collaboration in a hybrid/remote work setting.
Poor call quality
Recurring call quality issues can be a hindrance to effective business communication. Traditional POTS systems are susceptible to a variety of problems that can disrupt your workflow, including:
- Static and interference: These issues can lead to a degraded listening experience and frustration for both you and your clients.
- Dropped calls: Unexpected call drops can disrupt important conversations and damage professional relationships.
- Limited bandwidth: POTS systems lack the bandwidth to handle complex voice data, leading to a decline in sound quality during peak usage times.
Fortunately, VoIP technology has come a long way. It leverages the internet to deliver crystal-clear audio, guaranteeing smooth and professional conversations. Its advanced systems also boast robust reliability, minimizing dropped calls and ensuring uninterrupted communication.
Don't wait until your outdated phone system starts costing you more than just money. If you see any of the signs mentioned above, it’s time to make the transition to VoIP and set your business up for success.
Ready to switch to VoIP? At outsourceIT, our team of IT experts is ready to help you unlock the full potential of VoIP for your business. We’ll be with you every step of the way, from migration to implementation to maintenance. Book your free consultation today.
