|
Voice and Data on a Common Platform (Voice over IP or VoIP)
- There was a time when voice was separate and distinct from data transmissions. In some instances, this distinction remains cost effective. However in other cases the traditional separation is impractical and results in costly redundancies. As time progresses, most businesses will find it prudent to migrate away from the traditional separate lines - and upgrades should be made with convergence in mind. Each case is unique - and we recommend what we believe is the prudent and cost effective solution. While we are an advocate of VoIP, we recommend conversion to VoIP only when this is the economically prudent alternative - usually this is observed in a new facility or major renovation of an existing facility.
We caution you to avoid being drawn into alleged VoIP savings that do not materialize. Claims of free long distance, "plug and play" extension mobility, etc are
often overstated. Often a substantial upgrade of the data network and its related cost can more than consume the alleged savings.
Further we strongly caution all who consider using the Internet for voice transport because its quality cannot be assured - regardless of what many "bargain rate"
carriers allege up front but ultimately deny in their fine print because no carrier can assure voice quality when the Internet is used for transport.
Voice over I P has its place and where it is appropriate, it is the cost effective choice. However, it is not automatically the proper or cost effective
one. We have no bias as we install both systems and will recommend the suitable one for you.
See our Data Lines page for more on a common platform.
|