7 Myths About Cloud Phone Systems Debunked

There is now a wireless technology that can provide even greater communication capabilities and flexibility to the traditional office phone system.

If something appears to be too good to be true then we usually assume that it is.  That, however, is not always true.  In the case of VoIP, the idea that it can help your business to grow without substantial cost implications is one statement that many find hard to believe and as a result, it has allowed numerous myths to permeate around its existence.

The ability of business VoIP phone systems to provide greater communication capabilities and flexibility when compared to a traditional office phone system is what makes it stand out but with new technology comes a resistance to change.

You may have heard a number of negative reasons why not to make the switch. Some are based on old telecoms realities that no longer apply, some were true 20 years ago but have improved with the advancement of the internet itself.

Today, we’re here to clear the air on all the things you may have heard about cloud phones that are stopping your company from reaching its true communication potential.

1. Internet phones have lower audio quality

This myth came from the early days of mobile phones when the cell networks were far less complete and it was easy to accidentally step ‘out of range’.

The reality is that your office has a permanent high-speed internet and Wi-Fi connection which means cloud phones often have far greater audio fidelity than even your favourite smartphone and can even exceed the quality of modern HD landlines.

2. VoIP lines will go down with the internet

Traditional phone systems rely on phone lines which can be taken out by falling trees in a storm. Mobiles require access to a wireless network which can be blocked by buildings or distance from a tower. Even old-school internet phones relied solely on your internet connection.

Cloud phone systems, on the other hand, are far more versatile than communication channels that have come before. This is because your number is accessed by inbound callers through the cloud and it can quickly and easily redirect that line of communication to any number of alternatives.

If your office internet is down, your cloud phone number will default to the cellphone of the person in question. It’s possible to ring an office landline or a home phone depending on how the cloud phone account is set up.

3. Cloud phone systems don’t have all the features of traditional systems

This is one of our favourite myths as it’s so easy to dispel.

A cloud phone system can do everything normal phones can do because unlike a landline with a fancy handset, this is software we’re talking about.

Cloud phones can handle voicemail, call forwarding, hold music, along with automatic transcripts to email, connection with your CRM and integration with other aspects of your business software stack.

In other words, cloud phones do more, not less, than traditional phone systems.

4. Setup and configuration requires an IT genius

Traditional phone systems actually take a lot more effort and technical know-how to set up than a cloud phone system. Cloud phones don’t require a running wire or any type of physical installation other than plugging in your headset or handset. They almost universally come with a friendly dashboard program that can help anyone who can manage Microsoft Office set up their entire office.

And, of course, there’s always a friendly support technician only a phone call or live chat away to lend a hand.

5. The technology isn’t mature enough

Businesses have been integrating VoIP solutions since before the turn of the millennium and an increasing number of businesses have been adopting internet phones since 2004 with no problems. If that’s not mature enough for safe business use, we might want to rethink other technologies like GPS and touchscreens!

6. VoIP is a big business solution

There is often a big difference between what is practical for a big business and what is practical for a small business. In many cases, the internet has become the great equaliser. One of the best things about cloud phones is that they are entirely flexible. A small business can start with as little as a single connection and easily expand. And the best part? No technicians tromping through to run another wire and no exorbitant installation fees, every time your business grows.

7. The savings are just a gimmick

Finally, there are businesses that worry that investing in cloud phone technology doesn’t really provide all the savings everyone says it is. Surely there’s a catch, right? It’s not unusual for businesses to be wary about a ‘great new deal’.

We’ve all been burnt in the past by hidden fees, installation charges, and cost-cutting tactics but cloud phone plans aren’t like that. There is a monthly charge for the number of lines you need and the majority of additional features come free with the package. There are no international charges like you will find with traditional phone companies.

But don’t take our word for it. Now that you’ve got a glimpse into the truth of these myths about cloud phone systems for businesses. Check out the opportunities for yourself.

We’re absolutely certain you’ll find a phone solution that is better, more versatile, and more affordable than business landlines. For more information about cloud-based phone systems, like VoIP phone systems or SIP, or to find the perfect phone solution for your small business, contact us today!