As organizations moved to remote working due to the COVID-19 outbreak, businesses with on-premise phone systems have found home working particularly challenging. Many sales teams have been using personal phones as work phone replacements, receptionists have tried and failed to transfer calls remotely, and often employees resort to asking customers to email them instead.
These are risky and inefficient workarounds. A cloud-based phone solution could end these struggles both now and long-term.
Microsoft 365 Business Voice, a cloud-based phone system designed specifically for SMBs, offers huge benefits for remote workers, save costs, and simplifies technology. It also integrates into Microsoft Teams for an all-in-one communication solution delivered through Microsoft cloud. The integration also means that calling, meetings, chat and files are all housed together in a single application. Business Voice also includes audio conferencing so customers, vendors or suppliers can join a meeting using a dial-in number.
Remote working
Business Voice also allowed easy transition to remote working – business phoneline operates as normal, existing phone numbers remain the same, and employees make and answer calls from anywhere, on any device.
Reducing costs
A recent Forrester study highlighted that three SMBs using Business Voice had saved over 30% in costs associated with PBXs. In an ROI-driven world, reducing costs is always a priority. Using a cloud-based phone system like Business Voice can eliminate PBX maintenance costs, reduce support hours, and eradicate upgrade fees.
Streamlining technology
Simplifying technology also makes it easier for employees to use and easier for IT support to manage. Employees can enjoy a consistent Teams experience across all devices without needing to switch between software or systems.
Business Voice integrated into Microsoft 365 offers a centralised set-up and management system housed within the wider M365 admin portal. As a complete cloud-based phone system delivered through Microsoft, Business Voice is secure and scalable to suit your business.
Summary
One hundred and forty-five years on from the first telephone patent by Alexander Graham Bell, and the telephone remains an iconic mainstay for business communications. But the telephone has come a long way since the 19th century.
And today, cloud brings opportunities that enable businesses to communicate 21st century style. Talk to us today to get started with a trial and your business communications could be reaping the benefits of cloud in no time at all.
