IT Industry Today

VoIP market growth sees SMEs save on costs

Small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) are being encouraged to reassess their telecom systems and adopt Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) communication systems to save money, enhance business communications and in preparation of BT switching off traditional phone lines.
Published 04 July 2018
VoIP is an alternative form of communication that utilises an internet connection to make calls rather than through traditional phone lines. VoIP is adaptable to any PC equipped with a VoIP phone or mobile with an internet connection. The technology can provide growth opportunities as it can be integrated within any existing IT infrastructure for greater efficiency, while helping save money for SMEs.

According to Statista, in 2017, the European mobile VoIP market was predicted to reach a size of 14 billion US dollars, and is estimated to reach 23.5 billion in 2020. The OFCOM Communications Market Report 2017 shows the number of fixed business lines decreased in 2016, mainly due to the increasing use of managed VoIP services. It was also found that in 2017 approximately 30 per cent of adults used the internet to make voice or video calls using a VoIP service.

Using calls via the internet is especially useful for businesses with global branches or those that frequently make international calls, as these are often unlimited and free with VoIP.

Simon Ahearne, managing director of Swansea-based telecoms firm SA1 Telecoms, commented:

“VoIP has been around for many years but we are now seeing the VoIP market growing at a much faster rate with the increase in SMEs opting to switch to VoIP services because of its many benefits. The money that can be saved by switching to VoIP makes the investment in a new system a no-brainer for SMEs.

“By making the switch, businesses are not only keeping up-to-date with the telecoms changes that will ensue over the next few years with BT terminating PSTN and ISDN, but the funds that are saved can help level the competitive playing field.

“The obvious advantage of switching to this system is that the money saved from using VoIP can be allocated elsewhere. The system is also very efficient, which can increase business productivity. Traditional phone systems are becoming obsolete, so it’s better to be ahead of the curve by making the switch than having to play catch up to the detriment of your business and customers.”  
 

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