A unified communications system (UCS) uses cloud software and technology to provide all forms of communication you need; telephone systems, text, online chat and video calls, internet protocol television and emails can all be included in your package. Having a UCS means that you can receive a voicemail and choose to access it as an email or through your cell. Communications can be one to one or one to many. Basically, a good UCS can provide everything you company could need communications wise.
1 – Productivity gains
If your company uses remote workers, a USC can boost productivity. Your employees can gain instant access to each other and the latest version of any collaborative projects they’re working on. Real time communications mean that any issues can be resolved faster and more effectively.
They can take part in secure conference calls both audio and video and live chat to clients on an online customer portal. The message service for video calls means that even if an employee isn’t available, she/he will receive instant notification of its presence and can access it in an easy way.
2 – Do more with less
Having one system to cover all your communication needs instead of different services means enhanced function with less hardware. SMBs tend to have fewer resources yet still need to keep up with their larger competitors without the same costs.
You’ll need less staff and be able to incorporate your existing devices. With a UCS they’ll now be able to do more than ever as well as being equipped with the latest apps needed to run your company more efficiently. Having fewer devices means less maintenance and even less office space.
3 – Cost Effectiveness
One system for everything can work out a lot cheaper than multiple suppliers, but before you invest in a unified communications solution, make sure you do enough research into different suppliers. Many vendors offer low cost solutions for basic features, but then rack up the costs with other critical business needs such as third-party integration. Licensing fees should also be checked as well as cloud storage and upgrade fees. When you find a provider offering services you can afford, it will make a huge difference to your company.
4 – Security
Cloud-based providers have enhanced security measures that an SMB can’t afford. Directing your business through an online portal means that no matter what device you use, the data will be kept safe. A UCS can also act as a part of your Backup and Disaster Recovery package. Data will be safe and instantly accessible no matter what has happened at your physical business base.
5 – Scalability
Growth isn’t something you can predict accurately and consistently and this makes planning ahead difficult. Using a UCS allows you to scale up or down as needed. Having that reassurance can be a vital part of future decisions. Using a UCS allows your company growth room (with up to 10,000 users on a single platform) and if your systems are networked, virtually unlimited. This means that no matter how much your business expands, communications costs won’t be expanding with it. No other service can provide this much scope for scalability.
Stratosphere Networks knows that the cost and productivity benefits of a UCS are very appealing, but our IT professionals also know how difficult implementing a new service can be. If you’re looking for more information about unified communications solutions, contact us today at (877)599-3999 or fill out our contact form.
