hmmm sound interesting..? As you know, the cost of implementing a VoIP network can be very overwhelming. Most IP enabled phone systems run in the ten of thousands of dollars.. at least. And then there is the technical knowledge required to over see a VoIP system’s equipment, software and ever evolving network infrastructure. I have no doubt most of you can learn these skills pronto, but learning is still a very time consuming and costly process.
This is where I think managed VoIP services can fit in.. With these services, a third party provider offers all of the equipment, software, operations, facilities and technical expertise that is needed for a company to reap the benefits of a VoIP phone solution without the costs, risks and headaches of an on premise VoIP solution.
So how the heck does it work..? Well.. a typical VoIP service package includes the design, integration and deployment of IP-telephony equipment and software along with the maintainance of existing telephone solutions and the new VoIP network. Network management and maintainance offerings usually consist of remote fault monitoring with network surveillance, customer defined service level agreements for response and resolution; moves and changes; comprehensive customer reporting and service management guaranteeing a certain percent of network uptime. Pricing may range from usage based to a fixed flat rate, depending on your needs and performances. You can monitor your cost of operation through regular reports.
Overall Benefits of VoIP managed..
- Experienced Staff
- Faster Time to Market
- Greater Innovation
- Low Up Front Capital Expenditures
- Predictable Operating Expenses
- Enhanced Security
- Flexibility
- Special Features
Ok and here is what to look for in a Managed VoIP provider..
- Willingness to integrate your existing technologies with a new VoIP solution
- Proven track record
- History of financial stability and long term commitment to VoIP
- A service level agreement that promises a high degree of uptime and establishes a maximum threshold for downtime
- Security precautions such as build in redundancy
- Round the clock availability of highly experienced and knowledgable IT people
Here are some examples of some well known managed VoIP service providers as well as RedLegg’s favorite… sorry yes we are biased based on experience.
IPtimize Inc – Voice Pilot is a hosted VoIP PBX service that delivers integrated local, long distance and advanced communication features while leveraging an existing broadband connection.
Verizon Business- Relies on Nortel Network.. they have cool things like the find me/follow me application but no thanks to Verizon Business for me.. yuck
Avaya – Remote Management Services for IP Telephony. Good solution but their focus is not on managed services. It is on a new phone system. It is annoying to be constantly upsold, so beware of that with Avaya. But overall good solution.
M5 Networks Inc – Never really heard of them or dealt with them. I think they are only for companies based in NY.. but that may not be true. Don’t know a lot about this company but I do know they have an offering.
Whaleback Systems – Premises based, software driven all inclusive managed service with unlimited use and flat rate pricing. Sounds like a decent solution
Smoothstone IP Communications - REDLEGG FAVORITE!!! Lots of raving fans like this solution. Has multiple different options to deploy VoIP across any system or MPLS network from TDM emulation and SIP trunking to fully hosted VoIP to the desktop. I like the flexibility and the options AND the support staff. Really, really good. There are lots of different options including conferencing, voice mail and E911, along with all inclusive domestic and international calling plans that combine DID, unlimited local calling and 4 digit on net calling. Smoothstone complete is a hosted solution that delivers fully managed voice services without an on site PBX. Smoothstone also provides managed solutions and SaaS based applications for MPLS networking, unified threat management, contact center, collaboration and messaging. Smoothstone offers such good support throughout the planning, implementation and ongoing management of the solutions. MUY MUY IMPORTANTE.
We are having a webinar November 20th 1pm regarding Managed VoIP. Come one, come all! There is a free stainless steel mug given to everyone that attends. Limited number of participants so register today..
