Category: Cloud hosted telephony

Unlocking Seamless Communication: Embracing Voice Over IP with Microsoft Teams

In today’s interconnected business landscape, communication forms the bedrock of success. The advent of remote work and the need for fluid interactions have given rise to innovative solutions. One such solution is Voice Over IP (VoIP) with Microsoft Teams, a game-changing technology that transcends geographical boundaries and enhances collaboration.

In this article, we’ll explore the transformative power of VoIP within the Microsoft Teams ecosystem and how it’s reshaping the way businesses communicate.

The Essence of VoIP with Microsoft Teams

Voice Over IP, often referred to as VoIP, leverages internet connectivity to facilitate voice communication. Microsoft Teams, a comprehensive collaboration platform, has seamlessly integrated VoIP capabilities into its suite of features. This integration allows users to make and receive high-quality voice calls directly within the Teams application, eliminating the need for traditional phone systems. The result is a unified communication hub where teams can effortlessly transition from messaging to voice calls, driving productivity and collaboration.

Breaking Geographical Barriers

The geographical limitations that once constrained communication are fading away with VoIP and Microsoft Teams. With VoIP, distance becomes irrelevant. Team members spread across different cities or even countries can communicate as if they were in the same room. This is particularly significant for businesses with global operations or remote teams, as VoIP fosters a sense of closeness that transcends physical locations.

Cost-Effective Communication

Traditional phone systems often come with substantial setup and maintenance costs. VoIP with Microsoft Teams revolutionises cost structures by leveraging existing internet connections. There’s no need for intricate hardware installations or separate phone lines. Therefore, this not only reduces upfront expenses but also leads to significant long-term savings. VoIP offers a budget-friendly approach to communication without compromising on quality.

Seamless Collaboration

Collaboration thrives on fluid communication. VoIP seamlessly integrates with Microsoft Teams’ collaboration features, creating a comprehensive workspace for teams. Users can initiate voice calls from chat conversations or escalate a messaging thread to a call, all within the same platform. This synergy between VoIP and collaboration tools eliminates the hassle of switching between applications, ensuring a seamless flow of ideas and discussions.

Flexibility in Communication

VoIP with Microsoft Teams offers a new level of flexibility in communication. Users can switch between voice and video calls, depending on the context of the conversation. For instance, a quick query might be better suited for a voice call, while a detailed project review could benefit from video conferencing. This adaptability enhances the quality of interactions, making conversations more engaging and productive.

Enhanced Mobile Experience

Additionally, in today’s fast-paced world, business communication often extends beyond the office walls. VoIP with Microsoft Teams caters to this reality by offering a robust mobile experience. With the Teams mobile app, users can make and receive VoIP calls on their smartphones or tablets. This untethers communication from the desktop, allowing team members to stay connected, whether they’re in transit, working remotely, or out of the office.

Integration with Productivity Tools

The power of VoIP amplifies when integrated with other productivity tools. Microsoft Teams’ integration with Microsoft 365 applications ensures that calls can be made directly from tools like Outlook or SharePoint. This seamless connection enhances productivity by reducing the steps needed to initiate a call. Whether it’s scheduling a call through a calendar invitation. Or reaching out to a colleague from a project document, VoIP simplifies communication workflows.

Enhanced Security and Management

Moreover, security is a paramount concern in business communication. Microsoft Teams prioritises security by implementing encryption and multi-factor authentication for VoIP calls. IT administrators also benefit from centralised management and monitoring tools, which ensures that communication remains secure and compliant with organisational policies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Voice Over IP with Microsoft Teams is not just a technological advancement; it’s a paradigm shift in how businesses communicate and collaborate. The synergy between VoIP and Teams’ collaboration features creates a dynamic environment. Where communication transcends boundaries, costs are optimised, and flexibility thrives. As businesses continue to adapt to evolving work dynamics, embracing VoIP with Microsoft Teams becomes a strategic move toward enhanced communication and productivity.

Empower your teams with the ability to connect effortlessly, collaborate seamlessly, and drive success through the transformative power of Voice Over IP with Microsoft Teams. Contact our team today to find out more! 0191 466 1050

August 17, 2023
Elevate Team Collaboration: Exploring the Synergy Between Cloud Hosted Phone Systems and Team Calling

For all businesses, effective communication is the cornerstone of success. With remote work becoming more prevalent, the need for seamless and efficient collaboration tools has never been greater. Microsoft Teams, a leading platform in this domain, offers a robust solution that combines cloud hosted phone systems and team calling to enhance communication.

In this article, we’ll delve into how Teams Calling is transforming the way teams communicate, collaborate, and achieve their goals.

The Power of Teams Calling

Enhancing communication with Teams Calling brings a multitude of benefits that elevate team collaboration. With Teams Calling, users can effortlessly make and receive calls directly within the Microsoft Teams app. This integration streamlines the communication process by consolidating all interactions, messages, and calls in one centralised platform. The result? A more organised and efficient workspace where teams can effortlessly switch between messaging, video conferencing, and voice calls.

Seamless Integration and Accessibility

One of the standout features of Teams Calling is its seamless integration with the broader Microsoft 365 ecosystem. This integration enables users to initiate calls from various applications, such as Outlook or SharePoint, without the need to switch between different platforms. The accessibility of Teams Calling ensures that communication remains uninterrupted, regardless of the tasks at hand.

Empowering Remote Collaboration

Remote work has become a norm for many businesses, and Teams Calling addresses the unique challenges associated with distance and diverse time zones. The ability to make high-quality voice and video calls fosters a sense of virtual presence, making it feel as if team members are working side by side. Whether it’s a quick clarification or an in-depth project discussion, Teams Calling enables real-time interactions that drive collaboration forward.

Enhanced Productivity

Teams Calling goes beyond traditional phone systems by offering features that boost productivity. Features like call forwarding, voicemail transcription, and integration with Microsoft AI services allow teams to work smarter. Voicemail transcription, for instance, converts voicemails into text, making it easier to quickly scan and prioritize messages. These productivity-enhancing features free up time for teams to focus on what truly matters – achieving their goals.

Efficient Call Management

Teams Calling empowers users with tools for efficient call management. The platform provides options to set up call queues, auto attendants, and call routing based on availability. This ensures that calls are directed to the right team members, improving customer service and response times. The ease of configuring these features within the Teams interface eliminates the need for complex technical setups, making it a win-win for both IT administrators and end-users.

User-Friendly Experience

Complexity can hinder adoption, but Teams Calling stands out with its user-friendly interface. The intuitive design means that team members can quickly adapt to the platform, minimising the learning curve. Initiating a call, transferring calls, and adding participants to a conversation are straightforward actions that can be accomplished with just a few clicks. This simplicity ensures that teams can harness the full potential of Teams Calling without any unnecessary barriers.

Security and Reliability

Communication security is paramount, especially when sensitive information is being exchanged. Microsoft Teams addresses this concern by implementing robust security measures to safeguard conversations and data. With end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and compliance certifications, Teams Calling provides a secure environment for confidential discussions.

In conclusion, enhancing communication with Teams Calling revolutionises how teams collaborate, regardless of their physical locations. The seamless integration, remote collaboration capabilities, enhanced productivity features, efficient call management tools, and user-friendly experience all contribute to a more connected and effective workspace. As businesses continue to adapt to changing work dynamics, embracing the synergy between cloud hosted phone systems and Teams Calling will undoubtedly elevate team collaboration to new heights.

Remember, successful teams are built on a foundation of effective communication. With Microsoft Teams Calling, you’re not just making calls – you’re fostering collaboration, innovation, and success. As a certified Microsoft partner & cloud hosted phone system provider, we can integrate teams calling into your workplace.

Visit our cloud hosted phone system page to find out more, or contact our team today!

August 11, 2023
From Conference Calls to Cloud Calls: Transforming Team Communication Dynamics with Cloud Calls

In today’s fast-paced business landscape, effective communication lies at the heart of success. As organisations strive to connect teams across diverse locations and time zones, traditional conference calls are quickly giving way to a more flexible and dynamic solution: cloud calls. This revolutionary approach to team communication is reshaping the way businesses collaborate, enabling seamless interactions and improved productivity.

In this blog post, we will delve into the concept of calling with cloud-hosted telephony and how they are transforming team communication dynamics.

Understanding Cloud Calls: The Basics

Cloud calls, also known as cloud-hosted phone systems, are a modern communication solution that leverages cloud technology to facilitate voice calls, video conferencing, and team collaboration. Unlike traditional conference calls that often require specialised hardware and complex setups. Cloud calls operate over the internet, making them easily accessible to teams regardless of their physical locations. This accessibility, therefore, eliminates the need for participants to be in the same room or even in the same country. Enabling real-time communication without geographical constraints.

Seamless Integration and Flexibility

One of the key advantages of cloud calls is their seamless integration with various devices and platforms. Whether you’re using a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer, cloud calling can be accessed through dedicated apps or web browsers. This flexibility empowers teams to connect from their preferred devices. This also ensures that important discussions and decisions can take place anytime, anywhere.

Enhanced Collaboration Features

Cloud calling offers a host of collaboration features that elevate team communication to new heights. Screen sharing, document sharing, and virtual whiteboards are just a few examples of tools that enable teams to work together in real-time, even when they are miles apart. This level of interactivity fosters a sense of unity among team members. Promoting a more engaging and productive exchange of ideas.

Cloud Calls offering Cost-Efficiency and Scalability

Traditional conference calls often come with hefty fees for long-distance or international connections. Cloud calls, on the other hand, operate over the internet. Eliminating the need for expensive phone lines and reducing communication costs significantly. Additionally, cloud-hosted phone systems offer scalability. Therefore allowing businesses to easily adjust their communication needs as their teams grow or as project requirements change.

Reliability and Accessibility

Cloud calls are known for their reliability and uptime. Cloud-hosted phone systems are maintained by experienced service providers who ensure consistent performance and quick issue resolution. This reliability ensures that teams can engage in important discussions without the fear of dropped calls or technical glitches, leading to smoother and more productive communication experiences.

Security and Data Protection

Addressing concerns about data security and privacy, cloud calling employs advanced encryption protocols to safeguard sensitive information during transmission. Reputable cloud phone system providers prioritise data protection, complying with industry regulations to ensure that your team’s communications remain confidential and secure.

Embracing the Future of Team Communication with Cloud Calls

As businesses continue to embrace remote work arrangements and global collaborations, cloud calls are poised to become the cornerstone of modern team communication. The ability to connect instantly and effortlessly, collaborate seamlessly, and adapt to changing communication needs makes cloud calling an invaluable asset for businesses of all sizes.

In conclusion, the shift from traditional conference calls to cloud calls represents a transformative leap in team communication dynamics. The accessibility, flexibility, and enhanced collaboration features offered by cloud-hosted phone systems are reshaping the way teams interact and collaborate. As technology continues to evolve, embracing cloud calls is not just a matter of staying up to date. It’s a strategic move that can empower your team to thrive in the ever-changing landscape of modern business communication.

So, whether your team is spread across the city or across continents, the power of cloud calling ensures that distance is no longer a barrier to effective communication and collaboration. Embrace the future of team communication – embrace cloud calls.

Learn more by visiting our Cloud Hosted Phone System page today. Or contact our team by emailing info@theunitegroup.co.uk or calling 0191 466 1050.

August 4, 2023
Teams Calling: Seamlessly Integrating with Cloud-Hosted Phone Systems

In today’s fast-paced business world, effective communication is the lifeblood of any successful organisation. Teams Calling, is a revolutionary feature within Microsoft Teams. It has emerged as a game-changer for businesses looking to streamline their communication processes. Combining the power of collaboration and cloud-hosted phone systems, Teams Calling offers a comprehensive solution that optimises productivity, enhances customer engagement, and fosters seamless teamwork.

What is Teams Calling?

Teams Calling is a feature of Microsoft Teams that enables users to make and receive phone calls directly from their Teams application. It transforms the conventional desk phone into a versatile, cloud-based communication tool. This integration allows users to consolidate all their communication channels. Such as chat, video conferencing, and phone calls, into one unified platform, simplifying their work processes.

Seamless Integration with Cloud-Hosted Phone Systems

Teams Calling offers several advantages when integrated with cloud-hosted phone systems:

Enhanced Flexibility

Cloud-hosted phone systems enable employees to access their phone services from any internet-connected device. By incorporating Teams Calling into the mix, team members can make and receive calls from their computers, tablets, or mobile phones. Ensuring they stay connected, whether they are in the office or working remotely.

Cost-Effective Communication

Traditional phone systems often come with hefty setup and maintenance costs. Cloud-hosted phone systems offer a more cost-effective solution by eliminating the need for physical infrastructure. Teams Calling further optimises costs by bundling phone services with existing Microsoft 365 subscriptions, saving businesses significant expenses.

Streamlined Collaboration

Integrating Teams Calling with cloud-hosted phone systems fosters seamless collaboration among team members. With just a few clicks, users can initiate voice or video calls with colleagues or clients. Eliminating the need to switch between different communication platforms. This streamlined process enhances productivity and reduces the chance of missed messages or important calls.

Unified Communication History

Having a unified communication history is a boon for businesses. With Teams Calling, all call logs, voicemails, and call recordings are conveniently stored within the Microsoft Teams application. Team members can access this information at any time, ensuring they have a comprehensive record of their communication activities.

Advanced Features

Cloud-hosted phone systems often come equipped with a range of advanced features. Such as call forwarding, voicemail-to-email transcription, and interactive voice response (IVR) systems. By integrating these features with Teams Calling, businesses can provide better customer service, increase efficiency, and customise their communication setup to suit their unique needs.

Scalability and Integration

Cloud-hosted phone systems are highly scalable, making them ideal for businesses of all sizes. As organisations grow, they can easily expand their communication infrastructure without the need for significant investments in new hardware. Additionally, integration with existing business tools, such as Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software, further enhances the efficiency of communication and data management.

Secure Communication

Cloud-hosted phone systems offer robust security features to protect sensitive information and conversations. When integrated with Teams Calling, businesses benefit from Microsoft’s advanced security protocols. Ensuring that their communication remains secure and compliant with industry regulations.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Teams Calling offers a powerful communication solution that seamlessly integrates with cloud-hosted phone systems. By centralising all communication channels within the familiar Microsoft Teams platform, businesses can significantly enhance productivity, streamline collaboration, and reduce costs. Moreover, the combination of Teams Calling’s advanced features and cloud-hosted phone systems’ scalability provides organisations with a versatile and future-proof solution for their communication needs.

As businesses continue to embrace digital transformation, adopting Teams Calling integrated with cloud-hosted phone systems will undoubtedly play a crucial role in driving success and staying ahead in the ever-evolving corporate landscape. Embrace the power of modern communication and experience the transformative impact it can have on your organisation’s productivity and growth.

To learn more about Teams Calling and it’s easy integration with Cloud Hosted Phone Systems click here or contact our team today!

July 24, 2023
Boosting Business Communication: The Power of Cloud-Hosted Phone Systems

Introduction

In today’s fast-paced and interconnected business landscape, effective communication is vital for success. As technology evolves, so do the tools we use to communicate. One such tool that has gained significant popularity is the cloud-hosted phone system. This article will explore the benefits of implementing a cloud-hosted phone system for businesses. Showcasing how it can revolutionise communication and enhance productivity.

Enhanced Flexibility and Scalability

A cloud-hosted phone system offers unparalleled flexibility and scalability for businesses of all sizes. Unlike traditional on-premises phone systems, cloud-hosted solutions operate through the internet, eliminating the need for physical infrastructure. This means that businesses can easily add or remove phone lines, adjust call routing, and scale their system as their needs evolve. Whether you’re a small startup or an established enterprise, a cloud-hosted phone system ensures that your communication infrastructure can adapt to your changing requirements without incurring significant costs or disruptions.

Cost-Effectiveness

Implementing a cloud-hosted phone system can lead to substantial cost savings for businesses. With traditional phone systems, setting up and maintaining hardware can be expensive and time-consuming. On the other hand, cloud-hosted systems operate on a subscription-based model, eliminating the need for costly infrastructure investments. Additionally, maintenance and upgrades are managed by the service provider, reducing IT expenses. By opting for a cloud-hosted solution, businesses can redirect their financial resources towards growth initiatives. While still enjoying a reliable and feature-rich communication platform.

Seamless Collaboration and Mobility

A cloud-hosted phone system enables seamless collaboration and mobility, empowering employees to work from anywhere, at any time. With features like mobile apps and softphone compatibility, team members can make and receive business calls using their smartphones or computers. Regardless of their location. This eliminates the constraints of physical office spaces. Allowing businesses to tap into the benefits of remote work and expand their talent pool. The ability to transfer calls, hold conference calls, and access voicemails remotely enhances teamwork and productivity, fostering a more connected and efficient workforce.

Reliability and Business Continuity

In a world where even a minute of downtime can result in lost opportunities, a cloud-hosted phone system offers unparalleled reliability and business continuity. Traditional phone systems are vulnerable to disruptions caused by power outages, natural disasters, or equipment failures. Cloud-hosted systems, on the other hand, are housed in secure data centers with built-in redundancy, ensuring uninterrupted service. In the event of an emergency, calls can be automatically rerouted to alternate devices or locations, allowing businesses to maintain communication and deliver uninterrupted customer service.

Advanced Features and Integration

Cloud-hosted phone systems come equipped with a wide array of advanced features that enhance communication and streamline business operations. These features can include auto-attendants, call forwarding, call recording, voicemail-to-email transcription, and more. Moreover, cloud-hosted systems can seamlessly integrate with other business applications such as customer relationship management (CRM) software, enabling a unified communication experience. By leveraging these integrated features, businesses can optimise their workflows, improve customer interactions, and gain valuable insights into their communication patterns.

Conclusion

In today’s digital age, businesses must embrace technology that revolutionizes communication and improves productivity. A cloud-hosted phone system offers the flexibility, scalability, cost-effectiveness, and advanced features that businesses need to thrive. By making the switch, organisations can empower their workforce, enhance collaboration, ensure business continuity, and stay ahead of the competition. Embrace the power of the cloud-hosted phone system and unlock the full potential of your business communication.

To learn more about Cloud Hosted Phone Systems click here or contact our team today!

July 18, 2023
Choose Cloud Phones for Affordability and Usability: The Office Phone Affordability Solution

Introduction:

In today’s digital age, businesses are constantly seeking ways to streamline their operations while keeping costs in check. The advent of cloud technology has revolutionised various aspects of business, and the phone system is no exception. Cloud phones have emerged as a cost-effective and versatile solution for office communication, offering affordability and usability in one package. In this article, we will explore how cloud phones can benefit your office by providing affordable and user-friendly communication options.

Affordability: Saving Your Business Money

One of the primary advantages of opting for cloud phones in your office is the potential for substantial cost savings. Traditional phone systems often require significant upfront investments in hardware, installation, and ongoing maintenance. In contrast, cloud phone systems operate using internet-based technology, eliminating the need for expensive on-premises equipment. Making them a better choice for office phone affordability.

By leveraging the power of the cloud, businesses can reduce or eliminate hardware costs altogether. Cloud phones operate using software that can be accessed through mobile devices, desktop computers, or even existing IP desk phones, minimising the need for additional equipment purchases. Moreover, cloud phone providers often offer flexible subscription plans, allowing businesses to scale their services based on their needs, thereby avoiding unnecessary expenses.

Usability: Enhancing Communication Efficiency

In addition to cost savings, cloud phones offer enhanced usability, empowering businesses to communicate more efficiently. Cloud-based systems integrate seamlessly with various communication tools, such as email, instant messaging, and video conferencing platforms. This integration enables employees to collaborate effectively and access their phone systems from any device, regardless of their physical location.

Cloud phones also provide advanced features designed to improve productivity. These features may include call forwarding, voicemail transcription, auto-attendant, call recording, and interactive voice response (IVR) systems. Such capabilities help streamline business operations, ensure calls are handled efficiently, and enhance the overall customer experience.

Flexibility and Scalability: Adapting to Your Business Needs

Another compelling reason to choose cloud phones is their inherent flexibility and scalability. As your business grows or experiences fluctuations in call volumes, cloud phone systems can easily accommodate those changes. Cloud phone providers offer the ability to add or remove phone lines and scale features on-demand, providing your office with the necessary agility to adapt to evolving business requirements. Meaning as your business expands, it offer better office phone affordability than the traditional phone system.

Cloud phones also enable remote work capabilities, which have become increasingly crucial in today’s business landscape. With cloud-based communication systems, employees can seamlessly connect with clients, colleagues, and partners from anywhere, promoting collaboration and ensuring uninterrupted productivity.

Security and Reliability: Safeguarding Your Communications

When considering cloud-based solutions, security and reliability are essential factors to evaluate. Cloud phone providers prioritise the security of their systems, implementing robust measures to protect your communications. They often employ encryption protocols, firewall protection, and regular system updates to ensure the integrity and privacy of your calls and data.

Moreover, cloud phone systems offer inherent reliability, as they are not susceptible to physical infrastructure failures or natural disasters. With redundant servers and built-in failover mechanisms, cloud-based phone services provide a level of reliability that traditional phone systems cannot match. Not only do cloud phones offer better office phone affordability, but they are also safer, at a lower cost – it’s a no-brainer!

Conclusion:

Choosing cloud phones for your office not only provides cost savings but also enhances usability, flexibility, and scalability. By embracing cloud technology, businesses can leverage advanced communication features, facilitate collaboration, and ensure seamless connectivity regardless of location. Cloud phone systems offer security, reliability, and the potential for significant cost reductions, making them an ideal choice for modern businesses seeking affordability and usability in their office phone solutions. Embrace the power of the cloud and revolutionise your office communication today!

June 29, 2023
Why You Need a Cloud Phone System: Exploring the Benefits of Hosted Telephony

Introduction

In today’s fast-paced and interconnected business landscape, effective communication plays a vital role in the success of any organisation. Traditional phone systems are no longer sufficient to meet the evolving needs of businesses. This is where cloud phone systems, also known as hosted telephony, come into play. These innovative solutions leverage the power of the cloud to deliver seamless and efficient communication experiences. In this blog post, we will delve into the benefits of hosted telephony and explain why it is a must-have for modern businesses.

Cost Savings

One of the most significant advantages of a cloud phone system is the potential for cost savings. Traditional phone systems often require substantial upfront investments in hardware, infrastructure, and maintenance. In contrast, hosted telephony eliminates the need for expensive on-premises equipment, such as private branch exchange (PBX) systems. With a cloud-based solution, you can access enterprise-grade communication capabilities through a simple monthly subscription. Significantly reducing your upfront and ongoing expenses.

Scalability and Flexibility

As your business grows, so do your communication needs. Hosted telephony offers unparalleled scalability and flexibility to adapt to your evolving requirements. Cloud phone systems allow you to easily add or remove phone lines, extensions, and features without the hassle of physical infrastructure changes. Whether you are opening new offices, expanding your team, or exploring remote work options. A cloud-based solution ensures that your communication system seamlessly scales alongside your business.

Business Continuity

Unforeseen events, such as power outages, natural disasters, or network failures, can disrupt traditional phone systems and negatively impact business operations. Hosted telephony mitigates this risk by offering built-in redundancy and failover capabilities. In the event of a disruption, calls can be automatically routed to backup numbers, mobile devices, or alternative locations, ensuring uninterrupted communication and business continuity. By relying on the cloud for your phone system, you can maintain seamless connectivity even during challenging times.

Advanced Features and Integration

Another benefit of hosted telephony is it provides access to a wide range of advanced features and integrations that can enhance your business communication. These features include call forwarding, voicemail-to-email transcription, auto-attendants, call recording, and more. Additionally, cloud phone systems seamlessly integrate with other business applications such as customer relationship management (CRM) platforms and help desk software. This integration streamlines workflows, improves productivity, and enables better customer service by providing a holistic view of customer interactions.

Mobility and Remote Work

In an era where remote work and mobile connectivity are becoming increasingly prevalent, hosted telephony offers the flexibility and mobility that modern businesses require. Cloud phone systems allow employees to make and receive business calls from their mobile devices, laptops, or even softphone applications. This empowers your team to work from anywhere, ensuring continuous communication and collaboration across geographies. Whether your employees are on the road, working from home, or at a client’s location, they can stay connected seamlessly.

Simplified Management and Maintenance

Managing and maintaining traditional phone systems can be complex and time-consuming. With a cloud phone system, the responsibility for system updates, security patches, and infrastructure maintenance lies with the service provider. This allows your IT team to focus on core business activities, rather than dealing with the technical intricacies of phone system management. Additionally, cloud-based solutions often provide user-friendly web portals or mobile apps, enabling easy administration and self-service options for users to manage their own features and preferences.

Conclusion

The benefits of a cloud phone system, or hosted telephony, are clear and compelling. From cost savings and scalability to advanced features and mobility, adopting a cloud-based solution can revolutionize your business communication. Whether you’re a small startup or a large global organisation, the benefits of hosted telephony are sure to be useful for your business.

To find out more, contact our team today!

June 22, 2023
Cloud Hosted Phone System vs Traditional Phone System

We understand that changing your phone system can seem like a daunting task. However, it’s important to ensure your business utilises the latest technology. In this blog, we compare the Cloud Hosted Phone System vs Traditional Phone System. Highlighting the benefits of making the change to a Cloud Hosted Phone System.

Hardware

Traditional phone systems require hardware. This includes a physical phone system on-site and handsets for all staff as a minimum. Hardware is expensive and will end up costing your company thousands! Not only that, but it will likely need to be replaced within 5 years as technology continues to advance. Meaning yet more to spend.

In comparison, a Cloud Hosted Phone System requires no additional equipment. Your team can receive calls via their mobile, laptop, tablet or if you would still like a desk phone we will provide you with an IP desk phone free of charge! As well as this, you will not be required to have a phone system on-site, further eliminating costs. When choosing The Unite Group as your provider, we can confirm there will be no upfront costs for your business! Making this a cost-effective option for businesses small and large.

Accessibility

With more and more employees seeking hybrid and work-from-home roles, the biggest problem facing the modern business is how to ensure their teams can deliver the same level of service at home. A cloud-hosted phone system is a simple solution for this! Your team can pick up calls from anywhere with an internet connection. Meaning your customers will be unaware of your team’s working location. Ensuring you can deliver the highest level of service no matter where your employees are situated.

This is a great advancement in comparison to the traditional phone system where your team would be required to be present in your place of work to answer the phone. Creating accessibility means you’ll never miss an opportunity again! As long as your team has internet access, the call won’t be missed.

Business Continuity

If we have learnt anything in the past 3 years, it’s that your business needs to ensure it could continue running if the world were to close down – quite literally! The Covid-19 pandemic stressed the importance of business continuity. Technology is leading the way in this. Not only does a cloud based phone system ensure your team can answer a call anywhere. It also ensures that if your team could not leave their home, your business calls would remain unaffected.

Clients who had already adopted such technology prior to 2020, reaped the benefits of this technology. Don’t wait until disaster strikes, ensure you have the correct technology in place now. Meaning your team understands how to use it and should there be an instance where our normal way of life is disrupted, your business calls won’t be.

Integration

Another advantage of cloud-based platforms is easy integration with your cloud based systems/CRMs. With APIs now available for most online software it means you can have customer information immediately available on your screen when they call in.

Another advantage is click to dial meaning you can click on a telephone number in your CRM or in Outlook and it will immediately call that number.

Traditional phone systems do not connect with other technology in this way. Making cloud hosted phone systems the better option for a modern business.

Microsoft Teams Dialling

Cloud based phone systems provided by The Unite Group also integrate fully with Microsoft Teams. Meaning you can dial directly from the Teams interface. This allows you to utilise the key features of cloud telephony but use the Teams portal that you are familiar with. This makes remote working seamless meaning you always have everything available in one place irrespective of the physical location. In 2023, we are seeing increasing numbers of Teams calls replacing physical meetings. Therefore, this connectivity is vital for businesses wanting to lead the way with their technology use.

To conclude, now we have compared a Cloud Hosted Phone System vs Traditional Phone System, we encourage you to consider the benefits to your business. Here at The Unite Group, we offer businesses big & small the option of moving seamlessly to a cloud hosted phone system. If you would like to learn more, visit our cloud hosted phone system page or arrange a chat with a member of our experience team today!

June 13, 2023
Take business calls, from anywhere!

In today’s fast-paced business environment, it is becoming increasingly expected that business calls are not missed. As we see an increase in hybrid working, it is important for businesses to adapt to ensure employees can work from anywhere. Ensuring no calls are missed. Did you know a cloud-hosted phone system could be the solution to your problems? Allowing your team to take calls from anywhere, at any time?

In this blog, we cover exactly what a cloud-hosted phone system is. As well as, how implementing one in your business, means you’ll never miss a call again!

What is a hosted phone system?

A cloud-hosted phone system is a communication solution that operates over the Internet instead of relying on traditional phone lines. It involves storing and managing all phone system components. This includes hardware and software, at a remote location provided by a third-party service provider. Like ourselves here at The Unite Group. Users connect to the system through their internet connection and access features such as call management, voicemail, and virtual extensions. As a flexible and scalable solution, hosted phone systems offer businesses the advantages of cost-effectiveness, mobility, and easy management without the need for extensive on-premises infrastructure.

Never miss a call again!

Hosted phone systems do not require a desk phone! Therefore, the software can be added to your staff’s existing devices for example their phone, laptops etc. Saving you on the cost of expensive hardware. Not only this but also, meaning your team can take business calls anytime, wherever they are! Whether in the office, working from home, or even abroad! Since cloud-hosted phone systems work over the Internet, calls can be taken from anywhere that has access to the Internet. Correspondingly, statistics show businesses that use a cloud-hosted phone system increase productivity by up to 20%. With the ability to allow agents to take calls anywhere around the world. Meaning you can be assured your team is equipt no matter where they are working to pick up those all-important phone calls.

Hybrid Working

Since the Covid-19 pandemic, there has been a shift worldwide of more and more businesses accommodating hybrid working. Having a cloud-hosted phone system means your staff working from home can be on hand to take calls as if they were sat at their desk in the office. Meaning your customers will not be aware of your team’s working location. No matter where that may be.

Moreover, this in turn ensures that your team has the ability to work efficiently. Ensuring a call is never missed! Unlike traditional phone systems, where a desk phone must be attached to a physical line. Your team can access calls on the go using their mobile phone.

Adopting a cloud-hosted phone system is essential for any modern business that wants to ensure it can continue to provide high levels of customer service in the ever-changing current business climate.

So, how can The Unite Group help?

Our team here at The Unite Group has a large team of highly skilled engineers who can implement a cloud-hosted phone system into your business, stress-free. Our projects team will plan all steps of the migration to ensure a smooth shift over for your business. Whether big or small, a cloud-hosted phone system can accommodate your business.

Want to learn more?

If you’re interested in learning more about Cloud Hosted Phone Systems, click here to head over to the page on our website. Where we break down further the benefits of ditching the traditional telephone system.

Or alternatively, pick up the phone and chat with our experienced team who would be happy to have a no-pressure conversation and answer any questions you may have. Call us today on 0191 466 1050.

Ensure your business never missed a call again! Stay ahead of competitors and implement a cloud-hosted phone system in your business!

May 17, 2023
Does my business need a cloud-hosted phone system?
Introduction

Cloud-hosted phone systems have changed the way businesses communicate. They are more affordable, easier to manage and scalable than on-premises systems, but they also provide many other benefits. Here are five questions you will want to ask yourself before making the decision about whether your business should invest in a cloud-hosted phone system:

You have to address a few key questions to determine whether your business needs a cloud-hosted phone system.
- What are the specific needs of your business?
- How much is this going to cost? Is it worth the investment?
- How much time will it save? Can you afford not to have that extra time in your day and week? Or do you need it for other things like growing the business or taking care of employees who work remotely (or both)? If so, then maybe investing in a cloud-hosted phone system is worthwhile for you!
A cloud-hosted phone system can reduce employee travel costs, especially if you have remote workers.

With the rise of remote working and telecommuting, employers are looking for ways to make their employees more productive while reducing travel costs and carbon footprint. Cloud-hosted phone systems offer many benefits for this purpose:
- Employees can be more productive by working from anywhere that has internet access.
- Cloud-hosted phone systems allow companies to set up virtual offices. In other countries or towns without having physical offices there – so they don’t need to pay for office space or equipment upgrades (such as a new server).
Cloud-hosted phone systems are more affordable and easier to manage than on-premises systems.

There are several reasons why cloud-hosted phone services cost less than an on-premises system:
- No hardware to buy. You don’t need to purchase servers, routers or switches for your business. The cloud service provider does all of this for you.
- No software to install. Cloud providers provide all the software needed for your business’ phone system right out of the box. So there’s no need for expensive training either (which can add up quickly). With some applications like VoIP or unified communications (UC), there may be additional configuration steps required such as configuring a firewall or setting up SIP trunks in order for them work properly with their new environment – but these processes aren’t difficult at all with most vendors today! And once everything’s configured correctly,…
Your business will be able to grow as fast as it wants without getting tied down by communications technology that doesn’t scale with your growth.

When you’re running a business, it can be difficult to keep up with all of the technology needs. You have to constantly make sure that you’re keeping things updated and upgrading as needed. This can be especially difficult when it comes to communications technology. This is because your phone system will need to scale with your business.

Cloud-hosted solutions are inherently flexible and scalable–you don’t need any additional hardware or software onsite at all! That means no more worrying about buying more hardware as growth happens! Or needing an expensive upgrade once every few years just because it’s time for a new system (and paying someone else thousands of pounds in labour costs). Cloud hosting also removes capacity concerns from the equation. There’s no need for overprovisioning beforehand since everything is handled by servers in real time instead of locally on each device in the office space itself.

Cloud-based systems allow for easy integration with third-party software and services, such as CRM and email marketing tools.

Cloud-based systems are also more flexible. You can add or remove users at any time. Plus you don’t have to worry about installing new hardware or software on your computers. Cloud-hosted telephony services are ideal for businesses that want to integrate their phone system with third-party software. Such as CRM (customer relationship management), email marketing tools, and other applications.

Modern cloud-based systems let you do everything on mobile devices, including make and receive calls and access contacts directly from the device itself. This makes managing business communications even easier, especially if you’re always on the go or need to stay connected while traveling frequently or across multiple time zones.

You can also manage your call logs from any device! So if someone calls into work after hours but doesn’t leave a message for you, simply check your call log!

Cloud hosted systems give you flexibility, control and ease of use that improves communication within your organisation and helps keep productivity up while lowering costs!

Businesses that are considering a cloud-hosted phone system should take the time to understand how this technology can improve their communications and increase productivity. To learn more about the pro’s of a cloud-hosted phone system, click here!

If you want more information about the cloud-hosted phone systems we can provide here at The Unite Group, then contact our team today!
May 12, 2023