Understandably, it is in our nature to promote the use of cloud phones since it is our primary product. But in this article we hope to offer you an objective look at the benefits that you can get when making the switch.

Before anything else, what is a cloud phone?

Cloud Phone technology: a definition

The technical definition of a cloud phone requires an explanation of how traditional phone lines work. Back in the day, businesses deployed physical keyphone systems. Also known as private branch exchanges (PBX), these hardware relied on Public Switched Telephone Networks (PSTN) that were run by traditional telephone companies. On top of paying for the maintenance of these lines, companies also shouldered the high costs of installation and configuration.

With the introduction of Private Automated Branch Exchanges in the early 1960s, the way we communicate was forever changed and made easier. PBX systems also came with voicemail, fax, and call routing features — features which would eventually grow and set the template for the future.

A cloud phone essentially connects these switches by running them through a VoIP service provider. Numbers that you dial are routed by your provider and converts your voice into data packets that travel through your internet connection, and is transmitted to the person on the other line. Often times these calls are placed on a softphone, a software that is programmed on your computer.

The benefits of using a cloud phone today

With the status of work today and the prevalence of hybrid working, having an untethered phone system sounds very intriguing. Let’s look at some ways a cloud phone can greatly enhance your business processes.

1. There’s the clear benefit of savings. The average per minute charge of a phone call varies per region, but it’s a definitely more noticeable difference. Where the savings really start to stack is when you consider the absence of a physical hardware, one that might require installation and maintenance fees. So that’s two fees that you can simply cross out!
2. Scalability is one thing you don’t hear of a lot, but it is a benefit of a cloud phone system. With it being a cloud-based architecture, you can simply choose the plan that works for you at any given time. You can add or remove extensions based on the growth of your company.
3. A cloud phone system allows you to connect to your loved ones and your customers anywhere, anytime. Since it practically runs on a browser (ideally Google Chrome), that means you can use the cloud phone anywhere as long as there’s internet connection. This mobility is perfect for this work-from-home revolution that we’re all going through.
4. A cloud phone is a lot easier to learn and master than a physical phone system. And there’s the fact that if an on-premise phone system breaks down, you need to schedule an appointment for a technician to come and do repairs. You lose precious hours in the process! A cloud phone, on the other hand, can be remotely fixed by a team of IT specialists easily. So its ease of use and reliability are major selling points!
5. If you’re worried about the safety and accessibility of your call recordings, worry not! A cloud phone system means that your calls are all recorded on the cloud, which you can use for whichever purpose. This is perfect for businesses who require that level of security and accountability.

Why your business should invest in a cloud phone today