VoIP triggers

VoIP adoption is slowing a bit.

In a previous post, I have noted that VoIP is one of the UC applications that is furthest along in deployment is VoIP. In fact, most organizations in Nemertes research benchmarks are doing something with VoIP today, ranging from evaluations to full adoptions.

Recently I have seen some slow-down in the adoption pace of VoIP and how quickly companies are extending the technology to more employees. I expect that may be the case for the short-term, as organizations cautiously move through the recession.

IT staffs often view the migration to VoIP as the first step in a broader strategy that unifies voice, data and video communications. As organizations consider that first step, I hear the question: "What prompts an organization to make the switch?"

Of course, what drives organizations to move to VoIP varies, but there are some common triggers that indicate an organization should consider the move. For example, many IT practitioners will say a facilities move is perhaps the best time to implement VoIP because it's part of an overall change.

Other examples of triggers that move companies towards VoIP and the benefits they provide are:

• The need to centralize voice mail. It's doable in TDM, but IP uses the latest technology, and it's easier to add unified messaging.

• The need to integrate call features across locations. Distributed enterprise's phone features are common, regardless of location.

• The workforce becoming more mobile. Employees can log on to an IP phone, receive calls and voice mail, and access their directories and call histories. It also reduces cellular costs.

• The desire for a virtual contact center. VoIP is easier and less costly to implement for virtual workers. Providing alternate worksites improves employee retention, and customer-service levels improve.

• It's time for a network upgrade. Often, it's easier to get a VoIP budget approved when the move is part of a larger project. Also, IT practitioners are able to coordinate the lifespan of voice and data equipment.

• When a disaster happens. Unfortunately, that's when some companies begin to look closely at voice survivability. With Internet access, companies can get voice service, particularly if using a hosted VoIP offering. Also, those with a distributed architecture can more easily keep contact centers operating.

• Renegotiating a telecom contract. Organizations will consider VoIP to reduce international calling rates. Additionally, MPLS pricing is often attractive, making the move to VoIP easier.

Those are just some examples of single triggers, but in many cases it's more than one event. For example, an enterprise may be in the process of a mobility deployment and at the same time need to replace an aging phone system.

If your organization is considering a move to VoIP, understanding the triggers can help determine the scope of your deployment. It will also help you to outline the benefits and potential pitfalls and address concerns prior to budget approval and implementation. If you're not yet moving to VoIP, remember this: It's no longer a matter of "if" your company switches to VoIP, it's when.

• VoIP / Convergence
• unified communications
• VoIP