Netting the benefit of cheap calls
Published:
MANY people view the widespread adoption of session initiation protocol (SIP) by the business world as the next logical step in the ongoing evolution of voice communications. In simple terms, SIP is a signalling and delivery method for phone lines which enables voice calls to be routed over the internet.
And when you consider the benefits of this technology, it is easy to see why it is becoming increasingly popular in the business world.
SIP can be used as either a primary method of delivering phone lines or as a back-up in the event of a failure of traditional, analogue or ISDN lines. It is available to anyone with an internet connection and a SIP compatible device, meaning businesses of all sizes, and operating in a wide variety of sectors, can use the technology. Businesses deciding to embrace SIP technology can expect to enjoy a number of benefits, including reduced costs – both in terms of calls and line rental – increased flexibility and speed of provision. SIP also enables easier remote or home working as staff can simply connect to the office phone system or directly to a SIP provider and make free or low-cost calls. Businesses with multiple offices can also make free calls between these locations.
However, perhaps the two biggest benefits to businesses of moving away from traditional telephony services and embracing SIP technology are number portability and its disaster recovery capabilities.
Ron McGregor is managing director of Aberdeen-based Emerge Communications
