Cloud based phone systems are becoming exceptionally popular, especially as remote working is taking over.

Cloud phone systems, also called cloud VoIP or hosted VoIP, work in a different way to traditional phone systems. They are also different to on-premise VoIP systems which run over an onsite IP network.

VoIP transmits voice calls as data packets over the internet, rather than as voice communication via copper wires or optical fibres. As a cloud based service, there is no longer any need for an onsite network, which means your whole communications system is set free to be accessed anytime, anywhere. Ideal for remote working and seamless business operation.

If you are still using an IDSN or PSTN phone system, it’s time to look at alternatives, because these will be phased out by 2025. Cloud phone systems are future-proof and can also provide your business with a disaster recovery and business continuity safety blanket.

Cloud VoIP telephone systems provide everything you get from a regular phone system, and so much more. They are also a whole lot cheaper, because there is no hardware requirement, and so capital outlay and maintenance costs are reduced.

Here’s an at-a-glance summary of the benefits of cloud phone systems.

Low cost

Cloud VoIP is much more cost-effective than a traditional telephone system in numerous ways. For example:

• Lower installation costs
• Cheaper line rental
• No handsets required
• Low capital outlay

Line costs are cheaper because with calls being made over the internet you won’t need a separate line for your phone. Cutting down to a single line for your internet will net you considerable savings.

Calls can be answered using a PC with a wireless headset, or via your smartphone. This means you won’t need handsets, although if you wish you can use your own. The flexibility involved in cloud VoIP really is a major advantage.

The system is based on a low monthly subscription that includes support and maintenance, so no large upfront investment is needed.

Better flexibility

Cloud phone systems are so much more flexible than traditional phone systems. Make and receive calls on any device, and use it anywhere you have an internet connection. This really is the ideal way to switch between office and home working, without any hassle. Simply login to your cloud VoIP system and you’re ready to start communicating through your business phone system, wherever you are.

Improved scalability

A VoIP telecoms solution allows you to scale your comms system without incurring charges every time things change. Whether you’re scaling up or down, you have total flexibility.

Adding licenses is easy if you take on new staff, and if you find you need to downsize, there’s no penalty for reducing your license quota.

Enterprise-grade features

There’s a whole host of productivity-enriching features included when you opt for cloud VoIP. Features you won’t have enjoyed with a traditional phone system, and features designed to make remote working a whole lot more streamlined.

With a cloud phone system, you can enjoy:

• Call forwarding
• Call transfer
• Auto attendant
• Voicemail
• Group voicemail
• Message to email
• Fax to email
• Call recording
• Do not disturb
• Call queuing
• Multi-line conferencing

And all this from any location where an internet connection is available!

Being able to see who’s available via the main operator portal means you’ll never waste time again on false transfers when someone’s engaged, and auto-attendant helps cut workloads by directing calls to the right places. Multi-line conferencing is another feature that’s particularly useful for remote working.

With cloud VoIP, it really is all about improving operational efficiency, automating tasks and presenting a seamless front to your customers, wherever your staff happens to be working from.

Important considerations

It’s important when considering switching to a cloud phone system that you think about the fact that it’s internet-based, which means you’re going to need a fast and reliable connection.

If you don’t have confidence in your internet connection, then you may wish to upgrade to a high speed broadband alternative that will deliver the reliability you need. If your phone system forms the lifeblood of your business, then it may be wise to consider a dedicated leased line. This will see your communications running at the highest quality, without compromise.

The good news is that cloud VoIP is not a bandwidth drainer, so it won’t affect your productivity in other areas when your phone system is in use.

Cloud VoIP phone systems from AK Telecom Solutions

With cloud VoIP from AK Telecom, you can bring your existing telephone numbers with you if you wish. Otherwise, you can choose a new number from an extensive range of UK numbers with a 90% UK coverage and fee-free monthly management. International numbers covering major worldwide cities are also offered.

We offer a low-cost setup service on all cloud phone systems, plus flexible monthly packages that will see you enjoy considerable savings on your telecommunications costs.

To learn more, and for a tailored quotation based on your individual needs, you are welcome to get in touch. Our helpful experts are ready to be of assistance.