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Cloud telephony offers a significant advantage over legacy phone systems in terms of reducing IT expenses and increasing the efficiency of business operations. Unlike a traditional PBX system, which is limited to a single location and a fixed number of lines, cloud telephony allows you to access multiple extensions from anywhere through the internet. You can use any device to call any number worldwide without worrying about connection quality or extra fees. Moreover, cloud telephony provides more features than a regular desk phone, such as call transfer and routing. You can also use cloud-based tools like video chat and instant messaging to collaborate better with your team and clients. 

A Flexible and Agile Telephone System

The business communication landscappe has evolved significantly with advancements in mobile technology and the rise of remote work. Cloud communications provide much greater flexibility and agility compared to traditional PBX systems. Consequently, handling business calls while away from the office has become as routine as taking them to a desk. 

A cloud phone system allows you to make calls frm any device with an internet connection, no matter where you are in the world. You can also access all the functions of a regular office phone, such as transferring and directing calls. Moreover, a cloud system offers collaboration features like video calls and chat, which can improve the quality of business communication. 

Boosting Productivity with a Cloud Phone System

Cloud telephony falls under unified communications as a service, which combines different modes of real-time communication into one platform. Unified communications aim to streamline business processes by integrating various forms of communication. This can lead to improved productivity, performance, customer satisfaction, and cost reductions. 

The use of UCaaS can greatly enhance business efficiency and quality by facilitating seamless communication and tracking workflows among team members, regardless of their location. It also allows for easy information sharing across departments and with external clients or customers. 

Cloud Telephony and VoIP: Understanding the Difference

Cloud phone systems consist of a specific type of VoIP, which allows voice communication over the Internet. Cloud telephony is a more advanced form of VoIP, involving the provision of voice services through cloud-based platforms. It has several benefits over traditional VoIP, such as scalability, flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and improved security. A key feature of cloud telephony is cloud calling, which enables users to make and receive calls from any device, anywhere, using a web browser or app. For small businesses, using cloud VoIP communications can offer more flexibility to support organizational growth. 

Although cloud telephony and VoIP are often used interchangeably, they are not identical. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is a technology that allows voice communication over the Internet. Cloud telephony is a specific kind of VoIP, where voice services are delivered through cloud-based platforms. 

Selecting a Cloud Telephony Provider

Choosing the right cloud telephony solution for your business can be challenging with so many providers available. The critical consideration is ensuring that the provider offers the features and services your business requires at a reasonable cost. Key factors to consider include: 

• Reliability and Uptime: Evaluate the provider's history of reliability and their uptime guarantees to ensure continuous service. 
• Features and Functionality: Review the available features, such as call routing, recording, IVR, mobile integration, voicemail, and conferencing. 
• Security: Confirm that the provider has strong security measures in place, such as encryption, firewalls, and secure data centres, to protect sensitive information. 
• Integration Capabilities: Ensure that the service integrates smoothly with your existing CRM or helpdesk systems to boost productivity and streamline operations. 
• Customer Support: Assess the wuality of customer support, including response times, availability, and technical expertise. 

Conclusion: 

In conclusion, cloud telephony systems offer a transformative approach to business communication by providing unparalleled flexibility, cost savings, and enhanced productivity. Unlike traditional PBX systems that are confined to a single location, cloud telephony allows businesses to extend their communication capabilities globally, using any internet-connected device. Integrating various communication tools into one unified platform further streamline operations, making it easier to manage workflows and collaborative across teams, regardless of location. As businesses continue to adapt to the demands of a modern, mobile workforce, selecting the right cloud telephony provider becomes crucial. By carefully considering factors such as reliability, features, security, integration capabilities, and customer support, organizations can fully leverage the benefits of cloud telephony to drive growth and efficiency. 

Alexandra Socratous, a member of our Sales team at IBSCY Ltd. She holds a bachelor's degree in business and public administration from University of Cyprus. She became part of our company in May 2024.