In today’s fast-paced business world, providing exceptional customer service is essential to stay ahead of the competition. Customers expect immediate and efficient assistance, and businesses must be able to meet those expectations to remain competitive. One way to improve customer service is by using a cloud-based phone system.

A cloud-based phone system is a communication tool that operates over the internet rather than traditional phone lines. It offers numerous benefits for businesses of all sizes, including cost savings, scalability, and flexibility. But perhaps the most significant benefit of a cloud-based phone system is its ability to improve customer service.

Here are some ways that cloud-based phone systems can improve customer service:

Improved call routing and handling

Cloud-based phone systems use advanced call routing and handling features that can automatically direct calls to the right person or department. This ensures that customers are quickly connected to the right person who can assist them with their inquiries. Additionally, cloud-based phone systems can provide call queuing, which allows customers to hold until an agent is available, reducing the chances of missed calls or customers hanging up.

Efficient call management

Cloud-based phone systems offer real-time analytics and call reporting, enabling managers to monitor and analyze call volumes, wait times, and agent performance. This information can help businesses identify areas for improvement and ensure that their agents are providing excellent customer service.

Mobility and flexibility

Cloud-based phone systems allow employees to work remotely or from different locations while still being connected to the office phone system. This ensures that customer calls are answered, even if the agent is not physically in the office. The ability to work remotely also provides businesses with the flexibility to scale up or down their operations quickly, depending on their business needs.

Integration with other tools

Cloud-based phone systems can integrate with other customer service tools, such as customer relationship management (CRM) systems, ticketing systems, and chatbots. This integration allows agents to access customer information quickly and provide personalized assistance, improving the overall customer experience.

Cloud-based phone systems are an excellent tool for businesses looking to improve their customer service. They offer advanced call routing and handling, real-time analytics and reporting, mobility and flexibility, and integration with other customer service tools. With a cloud-based phone system, businesses can ensure that their customers receive the highest level of service, which can lead to increased customer loyalty and revenue.

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a modern telecommunication technology that allows businesses to make phone calls using the internet instead of traditional phone lines. This innovative system has been growing in popularity due to its cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and advanced features. Here, we will explore three types of businesses that can benefit from using VoIP and why it can be a game-changer for their operations.

1. Small to Medium-Sized Businesses (SMBs)

For SMBs, every dollar counts. Implementing a VoIP system can help these businesses save on communication expenses, providing them with a competitive edge in the market. The benefits of VoIP for SMBs include:

1. Cost Savings: VoIP services are generally more affordable than traditional phone lines, as they do not require additional hardware or expensive installation fees. Additionally, businesses can save on international calls, as VoIP providers often offer lower rates.
2. Scalability: As small businesses grow, their communication needs expand. VoIP systems can easily scale up or down according to the business requirements, without incurring significant additional costs or complicated upgrades.
3. Advanced Features: VoIP systems come equipped with features like call forwarding, voicemail to email, and conference calling, which can help SMBs operate more efficiently and professionally.

Remote Teams and Freelancers

As remote work and freelancing continue to gain popularity, businesses need tools that enable seamless communication and collaboration, regardless of location. VoIP is an excellent solution for these distributed teams, offering:

1. Flexibility: VoIP systems can be accessed from any location with an internet connection, making it perfect for remote employees or freelancers who need to stay in touch with their teams.
2. Integration: VoIP systems can be integrated with other remote work tools like project management and customer relationship management (CRM) software, streamlining communication and collaboration across the team.
3. Video Conferencing: Many VoIP providers offer video conferencing capabilities, enabling face-to-face meetings and enhancing team collaboration, even when employees are dispersed across the globe.

Customer Support and Call Centers

In a world where exceptional customer service is crucial for business success, VoIP can significantly enhance the communication capabilities of customer support teams and call centers. The benefits of VoIP for these businesses include:

1. Call Routing and Queue Management: VoIP systems can intelligently route calls to the appropriate agents, reducing wait times and improving the customer experience. Additionally, these systems can manage call queues more efficiently, ensuring that no customer is left hanging.
2. Analytics and Reporting: VoIP systems can provide valuable data on call volume, agent performance, and customer satisfaction, helping businesses make informed decisions to improve their customer support processes.
3. Cost-Effectiveness: VoIP systems can save call centers money on both domestic and international calls, which can be especially beneficial for businesses that offer 24/7 customer support or handle a high volume of calls.

VoIP is a versatile and cost-effective communication solution that can provide significant benefits to various types of businesses. Small to medium-sized businesses, remote teams and freelancers, and customer support and call centers can all take advantage of the flexibility, advanced features, and cost savings offered by VoIP technology. By implementing VoIP, businesses can stay connected, enhance collaboration, and improve their overall efficiency, ultimately contributing to their success in an increasingly competitive market.

VoIP security is crucial to protect your wallet, reputation, and keep your communication safe from malicious actors. Here are 12 best practices to keep your VoIP secure:

1. Secure User Credentials with a Strong Password and Two-Factor Authentication — The default passwords provided by the manufacturer are easily found and usually not strong, which makes it important to implement a strong credential management policy. Two-factor authentication should be mandatory for all users.
2. Perform Regular Call Log Reviews — Regular reviews of VoIP traffic in call logs help detect unusual activity such as abnormal call durations, destinations, and the time outgoing calls are being initiated.
3. Disable International Calling or Enable Geo-Fencing — Geo-fencing is used to prevent connections from countries where high numbers of potential hacks originate. IP blacklists can also be used to block connections to known malicious IP addresses.
4. Utilize SaaS for VoIP Calls — Outsourcing PBX and VoIP services to a SaaS provider like Telzio can provide a robust feature set, user-friendly UI, and full support.
5. Stay Up to Date on Security Patches — It’s important to regularly update the firmware on your VoIP phones.
6. Use a Router with a Firewall — Connecting IP phones directly to the internet without using a router or firewall is dangerous as anyone with an internet connection can access the phone’s web interface. If a router has a firewall, it should be enabled.
7. Limit Physical Access to Networking Equipment — Networking equipment should be stored in a secure room or cabinet and accessible only to the IT team.
8. Restrict User Access to Parts of the Phone System — Granting only necessary access to users helps prevent unauthorized changes to the system.
9. Ensure Data Encryption through Your VoIP Provider — Data encryption is crucial to prevent unauthorized access to your data.
10. Educate Users on VoIP Security Best Practices — Educating users on security best practices helps prevent accidental security breaches.
11. Prevent Ghost Calls on IP Phones — Ghost calls are a common issue in IP phones and can be prevented by implementing intrusion prevention systems.
12. Implement Intrusion Prevention Systems — Intrusion prevention systems help detect and prevent unauthorized access to your system.

By following these best practices, you can ensure the security of your VoIP system and prevent unauthorized access to your data. At Envoi, we offer superior levels of expertise to organizations in the field of communications and other tactical services. Contact us today and learn more about what we offer.

Cloud VoIP is a key element in any business communications plan, providing both financial advantages as well as elevating corporate operations and appearance. The selection of the ideal VoIP phone type for every user must be carefully made amidst an array of mobile and desktop options.

Before you dive into any Cloud VoIP implementation, it’s essential to consider the types of handsets necessary for your business, as well as if adequate infrastructure is available at each installation point. The two main handset choices are soft phones on smart devices or physical units that connect to a wired or WiFi network. Ultimately, the best option depends on what will provide optimal service and scalability for your specific needs.

Networking and Power

For VoIP handsets to make and receive both internal and external calls, they must be connected to the digital business network. To do this, a Cat5e Ethernet cable or better is needed for cabling connection. Plus, with the recent introduction of WiFi compatible adapters and handsets in the market today, you can now set up your own wireless environment too!

For those with a smaller business, VoIP can be hosted in the company’s own infrastructure or as an external Cloud VoIP provider. If your requirements are even more modest, then you could utilize a PC connected to the network and running some simulated PBX software.

Handset Selection 

Handsets vary greatly in design and aesthetics. From the traditional physical device attached to a desk or wall, to SIP technology allowing your smartphone application to simulate a telephone – there are countless options for you choose from!

From a fairly simple keyboard to an advanced, programmable model with integrated video-conferencing displays and audio without manual operation—the selection of physical handsets depends entirely on the user’s individual needs as well as their professional requirements. Making such an informed decision should be done during pre-installation planning.

Mobile Users

Professionals such as managers and executives often require consistent communication; this could pose a difficulty in a large space, like an educational institution or factory. Fortunately, VoIP systems equipped with the SIP protocol make staying connected much simpler.

Smart phones can access the VoIP phone system through an app that mimics a desktop handset and communicates with the system using SIP protocols. This means that once connected to your business network, in most cases via WiFi, employees are able to use their smart device exactly as if it were their office telephone.

At Envoi, we offer superior levels of expertise to organizations in the field of communications and other tactical services. Contact us today and learn more about what we offer.

Using an Integrated Communications Strategy that often contains VoIP offers various benefits to organizations, such as cheaper long-distance and international calling rates, improved customer relations, and better performance in the workplace.

VoIP has many advantages, but it can cause problems if not used correctly. Here are some issues you may come across.

Routers and Switches

A malfunctioning VoIP system could be The issue might lie with your router or switch. To rule this out, ensure correct configuration to support VoIP on both devices as well as updated Firmware versions. Another potential culprit for poor VoIP quality is an improperly configured switch port not allowing VLANs.

Outdated routers can often cause compatibility problems and poor performance. To see if this is the case for you, try resetting your router. It might not work, but it’s worth a try.

Bandwidth

To ensure optimal VoIP performance, make sure you have enough bandwidth. Network congestion can cause problems, soTry to avoid it if possible. If the problem only happens sometimes, see which application or service requires a lot of bandwidth during those times.

Include bandwidth monitoring as a standard network management task to identify and resolve connectivity issues quickly. Sometimes, though, a network issue originates from your ISP (Internet Service Provider) or another external factor beyond your control.

Desktop Problems

One of the most common VoIP issues is an echo. It happens when you have your handset volume turned up too high and the microphone picks up the sound coming from the earpiece, and then plays it back.

The most prevalent solution is to lower the sound on both ends. Nevertheless, this does not always fix the issue, and thus another option is to use a headset. Although headsets have their own disadvantages like ergonomics since they can be worn for extended periods of time.

Another possibility is that the problem lies in user training—or lack thereof. “It’s just a phone” has been used as a reason to skimp on training budget, but VoIP systems are complex and comprehensive solutions. Therefore, proper education is key to taking advantage of all benefits.

Our approach to increasing workplace efficiency at Envoi makes VoIP telephone service a convenient and versatile option for our clients. Contact us today and learn more about what we can offer you and your business.

VoIP permits customers within the same country to communicate with and see distant family and friends on their smart devices using VoIP apps, such as Skype and WhatsApp. No more expensive international calls!

Many people use the terms VoIP and IP telephony interchangeably, but are they actually referring to the same thing? Are there any technical or non-technical distinctions between them?

IP Telephony

IP telephony uses digital concepts and technologies to improve communications systems. Furthermore, VoIP or voice over internet protocol is a term used to describe using the Internet for long-distance calls instead of the more costly PSTN service.

VoIP

VoIP technically speaking, is a standards-based method for transitioning voice traffic to digital communications. The network might be private or internet-connected for long-distance and worldwide communication as VoIP falls under the IP telephony category.

Some of the most popular VoIP programs at a domestic level include Skype and Whatsapp. They are often used to provide non-toll-free calling alternatives instead of regular PSTN/cellular phone calls.

Implementing IP Telephony and VoIP

IP telephony does a lot more than voice communications and regular phone equipment. Even though the handsets are VoIP phones and VoIP is the protocol that manages the voice traffic, IP telephony covers a larger area than just voice communications. Installing this type of system has different requirements as well.

To digitize a telephone network means to change it over from an analog signal to digital. This, like any other business-based endeavor, requires you to establish what you wish to achieve and the benefits your company will experience by going digital. Without defined goals, you won’t be able gauge if the process was successful.

The requirements for VoIP are minimal. You don’t need much beyond a smartphone or desktop computer with the installed software. Apps such as Skype or Whatsapp will do the trick and once you have an internet connection, you’re all set!

At Envoi, we offer superior levels of expertise to organizations in the field of communications and other tactical services. Contact us today and learn more about what we offer.

Individuals and businesses have enthusiastically embraced VoIP Solutions. It is simply because the major cost savings in moving from a tolled PSTN network to toll-free internet connections for some people. There are, of course, other advantages in terms of improved operational procedures and customer service standards.

A popular inquiry is whether VoIP Solutions make a beneficial contribution, especially in the educational sector. The answer is a confident YES, and it’s not just for education. Any campus setup with multiple buildings or sites will profit from them.

VoIP on Campus

Schools and Universities, like any other enterprise, are managed with an HR department, Financial team, Procurement officers, and other essential business functions. These teams are supported by education-specific features such as curriculum development and student management. Other services that may be offered include postgraduate support; residence management; meal bookings; among others.

Call Management

Every educational institution’s success depends on its students. At the beginning of every academic year, there is a flurry of activity as old and new students are registered and put into courses. VoIP can provide advantages in various forms:

• With calling/hunting groups, promptness is key to handling incoming calls. Additionally, Pickup allows for staff members at unattended desks to take calls when the intended recipient is absent.
• With SIP technology, VoIP calls can be made through a smart device app, which is useful for times when you’re on the go and need to be contacted. If you’re within campus WiFi range, implementing this system guarantees that staff are always contactable.
• Occasionally, an event must be broadcast in several locations. A typical example is a graduation ceremony taking place on one campus that is streamed to all other campuses. For graduations completed remotely, this is becoming more significant.

Collaboration

• Students are increasingly using social media to access their e-learning courses and materials. For many students, having a smart device and being able to connect to social media is essential for their education.
• Many professors are now using WhatsApp and other similar platforms to communicate with their students. Additionally, students are submitting assignments online and working together on social media for assigned tasks.
• In many nations, there are educational networks that link primary and secondary schools, as well as colleges and universities. Over that network, academic and non-academic personnel can interact with each other easily on a one-on-one and group basis using VoIP and video conferencing.

Safety and Security

Many businesses are concerned about safety and security. Students and personnel can utilize an emergency contact on their smart device if SIP and VoIP are linked to a WiFi network. If they need help, this number is readily accessible to call for assistance.

Utilizing VoIP Solutions in an educational setting is a smart move that will benefit the school in more ways than one. In addition to saving money, it also improves communication among staff and students, as well as creates opportunities for the institution to partner with other schools.

Envoi makes VoIP telephone service a convenient and versatile option for our clients. Contact us today and learn more about what we can offer you and your business.