Enterprise VoIP is revolutionizing the way businesses communicate, offering a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional phone systems.
Small to medium-sized businesses are requiring dependable and adjustable communication solutions that can conform to their increasing needs in this digital era.
Embracing VoIP technology allows companies to stay ahead of the curve while streamlining their operations.
A recent study found that 41% of small businesses have already switched to VoIP, with many more planning to make the transition soon. This highlights the growing importance of enterprise-level solutions in today’s competitive market.
So, what makes Enterprise VoIP so appealing?
In this blog post, we’ll explore why Enterprise VoIP is an appealing choice for IT leaders looking to move away from on-premises communications equipment.
I will also list out the 5 best enterprise VoIP providers and compare their features for you to choose from.
“Switching from landlines to VoIP can save up to 40% on local calls and up to 90% on international calls.” – Tech.co
What is Enterprise VoIP?
Enterprise VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol, is a modern business communication solution that allows organizations to make and receive calls using an internet connection instead of traditional phone lines.
This technology has revolutionized the way businesses communicate by offering increased flexibility, cost savings, and advanced features.
By encoding voice signals into digital data packets, enterprise VoIP transmits them over the internet to provide businesses with a more flexible, cost-effective communication solution.
When leveraging your existing broadband connection, you can make calls without relying on expensive phone lines.
What is the Best Enterprise VoIP Provider?
1. Nextiva
In short, our best enterprise VoIP provider is Nextiva because they provide an all-in-one solution that includes voice calls, instant messaging, video conferences, and customer relationship management (CRM) integration.
Nextiva provides scalable VoIP solutions that cater to businesses of all sizes, ensuring efficient and reliable communication.
With features such as call forwarding, voicemail, conference calling, and more, it’s no wonder why many companies are embracing VoIP technology.
Nextiva offers a comprehensive VoIP solution that adapts with your growing business.
You’ll experience increased efficiency and improved customer satisfaction while reducing costs associated with traditional phone lines by implementing this technology into your company’s communication strategy.
Features:
- Add phone lines quickly: As your business grows or you need additional resources during peak times, adding new phone lines becomes an effortless task with Nextiva’s enterprise VoIP system.
- User-friendly Interface: The platform is designed for ease-of-use so users can easily manage their account settings online or through the mobile app available on both iOS and Android devices.
- Seamless integration: Integrating other communications functions such as instant messaging and video conferences allows employees to stay connected on multiple platforms using just one solution – saving time and streamlining processes.
Pricing:
- Essential – $18.95/user/month
- Professional – $22.95/user/month
- Enterprise – $32.95/user/month
2. RingCentral
Embracing VoIP technology means having access to advanced call management features that can significantly improve your business communications.
RingCentral’s system includes options like call routing, interactive voice response (IVR), instant messaging, and more.
RingCentral offers a comprehensive suite of VoIP solutions designed to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes. It provides features such as call forwarding, voicemail, conference calling, and more.
The platform allows you to integrate your enterprise VoIP phone system with other applications like CRM software or productivity tools for improved efficiency in managing customer interactions and internal processes.
RingCentral also allows you to save on costs by replacing traditional phone lines with a broadband internet connection.
While RingCentral can be an expensive VoIP provider, some of its substitutes offer a similar service at a lower cost.
Features:
- Software integration: The platform allows you to integrate your enterprise VoIP phone system with other applications like CRM software or productivity tools for improved efficiency in managing customer interactions and internal processes.
- Cross-platform: You’re not limited by location when making calls via RingCentral – access this powerful tool from any device, including desk phones, mobile phones, and personal computers.
- Scalability: Add phone lines or expand your services easily without worrying about traditional phone line limitations.
Pricing:
- Core – $20/user/month
- Advanced – $25/user/month
- Ultra – $35/user/month
3. 8×8
The key to an efficient VoIP service lies in its ability to provide a full suite of communications functions.
With 8×8, you can enjoy features such as call routing, voicemail, auto attendant, interactive voice response (IVR), instant messaging, video conferences, and more – all through one platform.
Their intuitive user interface ensures that even those who are new to using VoIP phones can easily navigate the system without any hassle.
This allows your team members to focus on delivering exceptional customer service instead of struggling with complicated phone systems.
Your business needs may change over time; hence it’s crucial that your chosen hosted VoIP provider offers scalability options like adding or removing phone lines as needed.
With 8×8’s flexible plans and scalable solutions, you can adapt your business communications seamlessly according to changing requirements.
Features:
- Mobile Services: The platform allows you to integrate your enterprise VoIP phone system with other applications like CRM software or productivity tools for improved efficiency in managing customer interactions and internal processes.
- No More Dropped Calls: 8×8 replaces traditional phone lines with internet protocol to minimize the risk of dropped calls.
Pricing:
- X2 – $24/user/month
- X4 – $44/user/month
4. Vonage
Vonage is a popular choice among businesses of all sizes looking for affordable VoIP solutions. It offers an extensive range of features such as call forwarding, voicemail, conference calling, and more.
They have been in the industry for over 20 years so you can expect them to have perfected all their features to stay in business!
With its easy-to-use interface and compatibility with most devices, Vonage ensures seamless communication within your organization.
Vonage’s competitive pricing allows small businesses to enjoy enterprise-level VoIP services without breaking the bank.
Vonage’s plans offer limitless calling in the US and Canada, which makes it a great choice for businesses that need to make lots of long-distance calls.
Additionally, international rates are reasonable so you can stay connected with clients or partners abroad.
Features:
- Interactive Voice Response (IVR): Vonage’s IVR system allows you to set up custom menus and greetings so customers can easily navigate through your phone system.
- Add Phone Lines Instantly: With Vonage, adding new phone lines is quick and easy. This feature makes scaling your business simple as you grow without any hassle or delay.
- Broadband Connection: The quality of calls on Vonage’s platform depends largely on the speed and reliability of the internet connection available at your location. They recommend having broadband with at least 90 kbps upload/download speeds per line for high-quality voice transmission across their network.
Pricing:
- Mobile – $19.99/line/month
- Premium – $29.99/line/month
- Advanced – $39.99/line/month
5. GoTo Connect
If you’re a small to medium business owner looking for software to operate your business more efficiently, GoTo Connect offers cloud-based VoIP solutions that cater to businesses of all sizes.
GoTo Connect provides advanced call routing and auto attendant capabilities, ensuring your customers are directed to the right department or employee quickly and efficiently.
Furthermore, GoTo Connect supports both audio conference calling as well as video conferencing, allowing teams to collaborate effectively regardless of their location. Setting up meetings is a snap with the user-friendly interface of GoTo Connect.
GoTo Connect also offers all the standard functions you would expect from an enterprise VoIP provider such as call recording, call forwarding, caller ID, voicemail-to-email transcription services among others.
The reason GoTo Connect has placed on the bottom of our list is simply because we found other enterprise VoIP phone systems to be more comprehensive.
Features:
- Customizable Call Routing: With GoTo Connects customizable call routing feature, businesses can ensure that calls are directed to the right person or department every time. This helps reduce wait times and ensures that customers get the help they need quickly.
- In-Depth Reporting: GoTo Connect offers detailed reporting tools that allow businesses to track important metrics like call volume and average hold time. This data can be used to identify areas where improvements can be made and optimize business operations accordingly.
- Simplified Conference Calls: Hosting conference calls with remote team members or clients is easy with GoTo Connect’s intuitive conferencing system. Users can set up virtual meeting rooms in just a few clicks, making collaboration more efficient than ever before.
Pricing:
- Basic – $27/user/month
- Standard – $32/user/month
Benefits of Using an Enterprise VoIP
Embracing enterprise VoIP technology can bring a multitude of benefits to your business, here are some benefits you get from using VoIP phone systems:
Cost Savings:
Moving away from traditional phone lines and business phone systems, you’ll experience significant cost reductions with an enterprise VoIP system.
Scalability and Flexibility:
Add or remove phone lines with ease, allowing your business communications infrastructure to grow alongside your company. With hosted VoIP solutions, scaling up is often as simple as contacting your provider.
Productivity Tools:
A good enterprise VoIP system offers a full suite of advanced features such as call forwarding, call recording, instant messaging, interactive voice response (IVR), and video conferences on mobile devices or personal computers.
Improved Customer Service Experience:
Your customers will appreciate the improved customer support offered by an enterprise-level VoIP solution.
Virtual receptionists can route incoming calls more efficiently while features like caller ID ensure that every interaction is personalized and professional.
Mobility & Remote Work Capabilities:
No longer tethered to their desk phones, employees can now use their mobile phones or laptops for making and receiving calls through the internet.
This increased mobility allows your team to work remotely, providing flexibility and improving overall productivity.
Seamless Integration with Other Business Tools:
Enterprise VoIP systems can easily integrate with other business applications like CRM software or email platforms.
This streamlined approach ensures that all communications functions are centralized and accessible from a single platform, further boosting efficiency within the organization.
Features to Look for in an Enterprise VoIP System
User-friendly interface:
A user-friendly interface is vital when embracing VoIP technology. Ensure the provider offers a simple-to-use platform that allows easy management of calls, instant messaging, video conferences, and other communications functions.
Call quality and reliability:
Your enterprise VoIP phone system should deliver high-quality audio without dropped calls or delays. Opt for providers with a proven track record of reliable connections over broadband internet connection or mobile devices.
Advanced call handling features:
Look for advanced options like call forwarding, call recording, interactive voice response (IVR), virtual receptionists, and more to streamline your business communications.
Mobility support:
With many employees working remotely or on-the-go using their mobile phones or personal computers, ensure your chosen enterprise VoIP solution supports making and receiving calls from multiple devices seamlessly.
Contact center integration:
If you have a dedicated customer support team, ensure your VoIP system can integrate with contact center software to provide better customer service and streamline operations.
Security:
As a business owner, you need to prioritize the security of your communications. Ensure the provider offers robust encryption and protection against potential threats like hacking or data breaches.
Customization options:
Your enterprise VoIP solution should offer customization options that suit your specific needs, such as personalized caller ID, custom hold music, or tailored call routing plans.
Cost-effectiveness:
Finally, consider the overall costs associated with using an enterprise VoIP system. Look for providers offering competitive pricing without compromising on quality and features. This includes setup fees, monthly fees, and any additional charges related to their services.
Cost Considerations for Enterprise VoIP Systems
In this section, we’ll discuss setup fees, monthly fees, and other expenses associated with using a particular provider’s services.
The Initial Investment: Setup Fees
An initial investment may be required in the form of a one-time setup fee for establishing an enterprise VoIP system, although some providers offer free installation or waive these fees during promotional periods. This cost can vary depending on the complexity of your business’ needs and the specific VoIP provider.
Ongoing Costs: Monthly Fees & Call Charges
Your primary ongoing expense will be the monthly service fee charged by your chosen provider. These charges often depend on factors such as the number of users, features included in your plan (e.g., call recording, virtual receptionists), and whether you opt for a metered or unlimited calling plan.
Some providers may also charge per-minute rates for calls made outside of their network or international calls.
Make sure to compare different plans carefully before committing to ensure that you’re getting the best value based on your company’s calling habits.
Add-On Features & Services:
Most enterprise VoIP solutions come with a full suite of features like instant messaging and video conferencing capabilities built-in at no extra cost, although there are instances where additional functionality may incur added expenses.
Examples include premium customer support options or integration with third-party applications like CRM software.
Tips for Reducing Enterprise VoIP Costs
1. Shop Around and Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to compare multiple providers, request quotes, and even haggle for better pricing. Some companies may offer discounts for long-term contracts or larger user bases.
2. Optimize Your Plan: Regularly review your company’s usage patterns to ensure you’re on the most cost-effective plan. For example, if you find that international calls are a significant expense, consider switching to a provider with more competitive rates in this area.
3. Leverage BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Policies: Allowing employees to use their personal mobile phones or computers can help reduce costs associated with purchasing new hardware like desk phones or headsets.
FAQs
What’s the top benefit of VoIP for businesses?
VoIP saves businesses money by using internet protocol to make and receive calls, reducing communication expenses compared to traditional phone lines.
How does VoIP work for businesses?
VoIP converts voice signals into digital data packets transmitted over an internet connection, allowing seamless communication across multiple locations without separate phone lines.
What’s the future of the VoIP industry?
The VoIP industry will continue to grow as businesses worldwide adopt its cost-effective and feature-rich offerings, with innovations in technology leading to improved call quality, enhanced security measures, and expanded capabilities.
Why is VoIP considered a disruptive technology?
VoIP has transformed how businesses communicate by replacing traditional landlines with more efficient internet-based systems, offering lower costs, greater flexibility, and access to advanced features that enhance productivity.
Conclusion
Enterprise VoIP is a game-changing technology that allows businesses to communicate more efficiently and cost-effectively than ever before.
With VoIP systems, businesses can enjoy a full suite of communications functions, including instant messaging, call recording, and video conferences, all while adding phone lines and making and receiving calls using their internet connection.
By embracing VoIP technology, small to medium business owners can say goodbye to traditional phone lines and dropped calls, and hello to a reliable and flexible phone system that can be accessed from anywhere with a broadband internet connection.
Whether you’re looking for hosted VoIP services or a VoIP phone system for your office, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs and budget.
I recommend Nextiva to be the best enterprise VoIP solution because they have proven to deliver a broad range of excellent features to ensure that every business owners’ needs are met.