Communications always poses a thorny issue to any business. The plethora of potential telecoms models now available has, if anything, muddied the issue, rather than given a solution.
Obviously, Hosted VoIP is available, offering a variety of features, and a functional upgrade from the traditional copper wire. It also allows companies to make better use of resources, maximising the use of an internet connection whilst potentially reducing the number of analogue lines needed. Many companies have been able to massively increase their Return On Investment using VoIP, enjoying the benefits and maximising their communications.
Another solution is that of an on-site system, where a specifically designed piece of equipment is bought to function on-site delivering telephony. This solution generally appeals to companies who have IT or dedicated communications staff available. Equipment can be complicated, requiring trained staff to set up and issue fix properly.
However, there is a third way!
A further solution can be found by diving into the world of hybrid solutions.
This is where a mixture of VoIP and on-site equipment is used, combining telephony over the internet with on-site equipment. Calls are made and delivered using SIP trunks, and continue onward to the end user via the hardware just mentioned.
This offers a number of advantages:
1) It can be supported by a VoIP Provider. A reputable SIP trunk Provider should be able to provide ongoing support and assistance with setting up. Removing the burden of this from company staff means freeing up resources and minimising the chance of future issues
2) It utilises the best of VoIP. Using SIP trunking means the best cost for local calls, and allows for lower rate international calls as well
3) It uses the best features of the on-site system. Having your own equipment close by gives the flexibility of making changes whenever needed. A link in the supply chain has effectively been removed. Any staff with suitable training and/or experience can make changes, create call flows or alter settings.
As you can see, there is more than one way to tackle the problem.
The question ultimately has to come down to preferences, the issues faced, and resource availability.
Whereas no one can answer all these questions for you, we can certainly discuss things to help you clarify your current situation. Our Technical Team live and breathe telecoms. If you are stuck, why not ask?