Mobile VoIP: Is Your Company Ready?

To be sure, mobile VoIP is a technology whose time has come. The infrastructure is now robust enough to support VoIP over most broadband networks, and companies have the potential to save on their cellular bills – especially those companies that have employees who do a lot of international traveling. And the majority of smartphones are now equipped for Wi-Fi.

Mobile VoIP also can extend the benefits of unified communications, giving users the ability to use UC on any communications device, be it a desktop phone or a smartphone. Extending that functionality means employees can be on the road or work remotely and get the same communication features they would if they were in the office.

It’s a nifty technology, for sure, and it’s moving along the same upward trajectory that unified communications has over the past few years. More companies are seeing mobile VoIP as a must-have technology, yet neither their networks nor their current communications infrastructure are equipped to handle it.

For larger enterprises, upgrading to an IP PBX solution will solve many of the compatibility issues, but it’s also important to ensure the network infrastructure can handle the increase in traffic inherent with VoIP technology. Too many companies jump head first into adopting a VoIP solution only to find their networks are not robust enough to enjoy a hassle-free calling experience. Mobile VoIP would only compound the issue.

A hosted PBX solution also is an option – and for companies of any size – but again, those companies need to ensure their networks can handle the heavier traffic loads.

A company’s success or failure in deploying new technologies and ensuring customer and employee satisfaction sits squarely on the shoulders of its network. Keeping that network in optimal shape and future-proofing it for newer technologies is critical.