5 Key Benefits Of Unified Communications For Business

Unified communications (UC) is a game-changing technology that can help businesses of all sizes streamline their operations, improve their workflows, and increase their bottom line.

It’s a set of tools and technologies that allow businesses to communicate and collaborate more effectively by integrating different communication channels such as voice, video, email, and instant messaging.

By 2030, over 75% of companies will use unified communication tools for calling, meeting, and messaging, with the US and UK leading the charge.

Whether you’re a small business owner or a manager of a large corporation, UC can enhance your organisation in a number of ways.

5 Benefits Of Unified Communications For Businesses

So, why should you consider investing in unified communications solutions? Here are its main benefits for businesses:

1. Seamless communication and collaboration

One of the most significant advantages of UC is that it enables employees to communicate and collaborate seamlessly, no matter where they are.

For instance, virtual video conferencing can save your employees time and money. It’s especially useful for businesses with remote workers or employees who are constantly on the go. A unified communications system eliminates the need for travel time. In fact, employees can save up to 70 minutes per day on travel time with these systems.

These solutions also make it much easier to bring larger groups of people together more quickly. This results in better collaboration opportunities and instant feedback.

2. Enhanced customer relationship management

Through unified communications solutions, businesses can provide customers with the option to contact them via their preferred channel. This could be email, phone, or even instant messaging.

Today’s customers are used to having options. A business that can provide them with options that meet their preferences automatically stands out.

3. Greater cost savings

Another advantage of UC is that it can help businesses save money. By integrating different communication channels, businesses can reduce the need for multiple phone lines, which can be expensive. MID Digital Solutions can help you get set up with affordable and advanced phone systems that will help you enhance your communication efforts.

Travel costs are another area where businesses and employees can save money. Since employees can conduct virtual meetings and collaborate remotely, travel costs are automatically reduced, as is your carbon footprint.

4. Increased employee productivity

UC can also help businesses increase productivity. By integrating different communication channels, businesses can improve communication and collaboration. This, in turn, helps reduce delays and improve decision-making.

Additionally, unified communications can help employees work more efficiently, as they can access all of the tools and information they need in one place. This can help to improve the overall performance of your business.

5. Scalability and flexibility

Unified communications solutions allow businesses to scale their communication infrastructure easily – even more so when these solutions are cloud-based. Growing companies can eliminate the need for significant hardware investments, while still reaching their objectives.

The flexibility of these solutions also supports remote employees and hybrid work models. This makes it easier for businesses to adapt to changing workforce needs.

Which Unified Communications Solution Should I Consider?

When it comes to UC solutions, there are several options available. Two popular solutions are 3CX and CallSwitch. Both offer a wide range of features that can help businesses improve operations, streamline workflows, and boost their bottom line.

3CX

3CX is a powerful UC solution that offers a wide range of features, such as:

• App-free video conferencing

• Integrated WebRTC softphone

• Automated attendant

• Mobile app reporting and analytics

• Call recording

One of the most appealing features of 3CX is its app-free video conferencing, which allows businesses to conduct virtual meetings without the need for separate apps. This feature is particularly useful for businesses that need to conduct meetings with remote teams or customers.

Additionally, 3CX offers a built-in WebRTC softphone, which enables you to make and receive calls directly from your browser. This eliminates the need for a separate phone or physical phone system, as you can make and receive calls from anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection.

CallSwitch

CallSwitch is another unified communications platform that offers a wide range of features such as voice, video, and instant messaging, as well as advanced call routing and voicemail.

One of the key features of CallSwitch is its advanced call routing, which can help businesses improve their call-handling efficiency. Additionally, CallSwitch offers a voicemail feature, which can help businesses improve their customer service, as customers can leave a message if the business is unable to answer their call.

Implementing Unified Communications: Dos And Don’ts

When implementing UC in a business, there are several best practices and pitfalls to be aware of to ensure smooth adoption.

Dos

• Assess your business needs: Before choosing a UC solution, thoroughly evaluate your specific communication needs. Consider factors like team size, remote work policies, and customer communication channels.

• Invest in scalability: Choose a UC system that can grow with your business. Scalable solutions allow for easy expansion without needing a complete overhaul in the future.

• Train employees: Ensure all employees are fully trained on how to use the UC tools effectively.

• Prioritise security: Implement strong encryption, two-factor authentication, and other security measures to protect your communications.

• Integrate with existing tools: Choose a UC platform that integrates well with the other business software you use. This includes CRM systems, project management tools, and email.

• Ensure mobile compatibility: Your UC solution should work seamlessly on mobile devices to ensure continuity and flexibility for your workforce.

Don’ts

• Ignore infrastructure: Ensure that your business’s network infrastructure can support a UC system. This includes sufficient bandwidth and stable connectivity to avoid disruptions in communication.

• Neglect backup plans: Avoid relying solely on your UC system without a backup or contingency plan in case of outages.

• Forget to update regularly: Failing to keep your UC software up to date can lead to security vulnerabilities and performance issues.

• Neglect analytics: Failing to leverage the analytics and reporting capabilities means you might miss out on insights that can help improve business communications and customer interactions.

Unified Communication Trends To Watch Out For

As you start evaluating your unified communication options, here are a few trends to bear in mind that you could benefit from:

• AI and automation: AI-powered features like chatbots, virtual assistants, and automated transcription are becoming more common. These features are designed to enhance productivity and customer service even further.

• Omnichannel communication: Integration of voice, video, email, and messaging into a single interface allows for a better customer experience and streamlined internal communication.

• 5G adoption: As 5G networks expand, UC systems will benefit from faster data transmission, lower latency, and improved mobile communication capabilities.

• Focus on security: With remote work increasing, businesses are prioritising advanced security features. For this reason, end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and secure data sharing are becoming common features.

• Integration with collaboration tools: More UC platforms are integrating with popular collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, and project management software to streamline workflows.

FAQs

How do I switch to internet voice calling?

Along with choosing a reliable Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service provider, you need to ensure your internet connection is fast and stable enough to support voice calls. From there, you would need to invest in the necessary VoIP equipment, port your number, and install web-based voice calling software.

Are video meetings really better?

Video meetings can be better in many ways, offering more personal interaction than audio calls. Participants can read body language and facial expressions, which can enhance engagement and collaboration. However, their effectiveness depends on the meeting’s purpose, internet stability, and whether video adds value to the conversation.

What is unified messaging?

Unified messaging refers to a system that integrates various communication channels such as email, voicemail, and text messages into a single, accessible platform. This allows users to manage all their messages from one interface. The result is improved efficiency and convenience when it comes to business communication.

Final Thoughts

With the right UC solution in place, businesses can achieve seamless integration of voice, video, messaging and data, while reducing costs and enhancing flexibility. This is especially beneficial in today’s hybrid work environments.

If you’re ready to enhance your business connectivity and phone systems, contact MID Digital Solutions today. Our experts are here to provide tailored solutions that meet your unique communication needs. Let us help you unlock the full potential of unified communications for your business!