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What Is Cold Calling? A Guide For Sales Professionals

Before the innovation of e-commerce and websites, businesses relied on telephone calls for advertisement and to generate interest. ‘ cold calling’ means calling people from a list of names and phone numbers to promote business to people who have not previously used your services. However, in this digital era, you may have heard that cold calling is dead, but it is still a most viable option for marketing if done correctly. It is a tricky process that requires a lot of patience, practice and persistence. Here we will take a closer look at cold calling and understand how it is helpful for sales professionals. We will also explain some tips and strategies. What Is Cold Calling? In sales, cold calling is an outreach method where a sales representative contacts a person who never had prior contact with your business. Cold calling has a reputation for being a daunting task that salespersons have to deal with. According to research 63% of sales representatives say that cold calling is the worst part of their job. Moreover, this method has a conversion rate of only 2%, and it typically takes a representative 18 or more dials to reach a potential customer with cold calling. Although cold calling has a limited success rate, it can be useful for reaching new customers. That is why many organizations are using this technique for marketing. Traditionally, cold calling referred to phone calls, but it can also include door-to-door sales. In the past, businesses obtained data from local phone books and directories. But now, businesses get this information from several third-party data providers. Businesses also use this technique of cold calling to contact professionals with opportunities and deals. Over time, telemarketing became a highly popular form of sales because it is the foundation of customer outreach and lead generation. Now it has developed into a more targeted form of communication, allowing salespeople to be thoroughly prepared and not lose even a single prospect. Difference Between Cold Calling And Warm Calling? Sales representatives make two different types of calls: cold calling and warm calling. So it is important to understand the difference between them and find which is more effective. Cold calling is a practice in which a sales representative contacts prospects without any interest from customers in their product or service. On the other hand, warm calling is a call to prospects already showing interest in the product. What Is The Importance Of Cold Calling In Marketing? Cold calling is an important part of B2B sales, allowing sales teams to reach potential customers and build long g lasting relationships. It helps you to demonstrate the value of your product or service, understand your customer needs, build a customer base and obtain valuable market intelligence. Here are the key goals of advanced cold calling in sales: Increasing brand awareness Collecting marketing feedback Getting qualifying leads Setting appointments with qualified customers Generating value for potential customers How To Make Cold Calls In The Best Way? If your organisation use cold calling to reach out to customers, you must keep in mind the following things to do it effectively: 1. Gather Information Timely Effective cold calling requires a certain level of prior research. According to research, successful salespeople spend approximately six hours per week researching their prospects. While cold calls may be cold by nature, conveying a clear value proposition is essential. You risk failure without knowing about the person on the other end of the line. Impersonality is a common complaint among buyers when it comes to cold calling. With the likelihood of making numerous calls each week, customers may feel like they’re just another name on a list. You can make your cold calls more engaging and successful by providing personalized insights into how your product or service can benefit their business. 2. Prepare a Cold Call Script A well-structured cold call script can provide direction and a roadmap for a productive conversation. Having some guidance to steer the conversation in the right direction is helpful. However, it is important to remember that a script should not be treated as a rigid document to be read verbatim without room for improvisation or flexibility. Cold calling requires some finesse and should not be approached blindly. While having a general idea of the direction you want the conversation to take is helpful, it is important to avoid dictating the conversation and allowing for natural deviations. Therefore, it is crucial to balance structure and flexibility to conduct effective cold calls and achieve successful outcomes. 3. Accept Rejection Cold calling can be tough, as most calls are unproductive, and some may even end with brutal rejections. It is common for prospects to say “no” quickly or express their frustrations during the call. However, it is important not to get discouraged and to accept rejection as a part of the sales process. Maintaining a positive attitude and adopting an “onto the next one” mentality can help you persevere and eventually connect with a receptive prospect who will agree to the meeting you seek. While rejection can be difficult to handle, it is important to remember that it does not reflect your abilities as a sales professional. Taking rejection in stride and keeping a positive outlook can set you up for success in cold calling and achieve solid results over time. 4. Know The Best Time To Call Timing is a crucial factor in cold calling success. To maximize your chances of conversion, calling your leads during the optimal time is recommended. Cold calls tend to have a higher success rate during workday hours. For example, if you are targeting leads in the marketing industry, scheduling your calls on Mondays, Tuesdays, or Wednesdays during the start or early hours of the workday would be wise. By being strategic about the timing of your cold calls, you can increase the likelihood of reaching a receptive prospect and ultimately achieve better results. 5. Educate Your Potential Prospect Knowing your product inside out is crucial in cold calling. During a sales call, your priority is to educate your prospect about your solution in a concise manner that generates interest and leads to the desired next steps. Take charge of the conversation thoughtfully, avoiding excessive questioning or letting the prospect dominate. You can consistently conduct effective cold calls and achieve results by being prepared, composed, and persevering through rejection. Advantages Of Cold Calling Even in this digital era, cold calling has been used to reach new customers and increase the business’s customer base. Here we are describing some most significant advantages of using cold calling. i. Direct Communication Directly approaching potential customers through cold-calling provides an opportunity for personal communication, enabling customers to ask questions and receive real-time solutions to their concerns. ii. Increased Audience Cold calling can be advantageous for reaching out to the older and less technology-reliant demographic, as it enables businesses to inform them about available services in their locality. Through cold calling, businesses can connect with people who may not be reachable through internet marketing. iii. Seamless Customization For businesses that provide personalized services or tailor-made price quotes, offering a seamless customization experience over the phone can be effective. After a brief conversation, they can easily calculate an offer for the customer. This approach is particularly beneficial for local businesses that manage their distribution. IV. Grabs Attention Cold calling helps call representatives to grab a person’s attention and demonstrate the knowledge and value of your products or services. It also lets you take advantage of social code since the listeners do not want to disconnect the call immediately, at the risk of being rude. V. Leads Follow Up Cold calling allows your sales representatives to directly contact and focus on leads that show positive responses in taking up your services. This extra attention to promising customers and follow-up on recommendations can increase the chances of reaching an agreement. Best Strategies For Cold Calling Now that you know what cold calling is and also understand how to cold call, now let’s see a few strategies that are perfect for every cold call, no matter what your style: Basic Research Getting all the information about clients is unnecessary, but you must know the essentials. Search for your customers on social media and check internal correspondence to see if they have interacted with your company. If you do not find such information, then take a look at similar prospects and look for their pain points. You have to start a conversation with something they want instead of just telling them about your product or service. Follow Up It is seen that 80 percent of the sales occur after the fifth contact attempt. Even if your prospect does not sign up, email a follow-up. Also, make sure to reduce email bounce rates for your campaign. You don’t have any idea what could happen. Keep Track Of Records To stay organised and on track with your cold-calling efforts, it’s important to keep track of essential details. These include the prospects you called, the timing of the call, whether they picked up, if you left a message or sent a follow-up email, and whether any concrete results occurred. As a remote SaaS operations team, consider using an email verifier to maintain a clean and accurate email list and enhance engagement with customers and prospects. Remembering these details for many prospects is unreasonable, so writing them down is advisable. A better approach is to enter them into a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system. Doing so allows you to efficiently manage your cold-calling efforts and keep track of your progress. Keap (Infusionsoft) is one of the popular CRM tools, hence you can also consider other Keap alternatives if you need more advanced calling features. Modern Ways Of Cold Calling No doubt, cold calling is an old way of marketing, but many industries are still using it. Now people spend more time online, and it is easy to access them digitally, so cold calling also sometimes appears on other media. Here are some marketing strategies that use the same principles as cold calling: 1. Cold-Emailing Businesses used to send cold emails to email addresses they found from data mining software or online databases to advertise their products. Similarly, jobseekers send emails to companies to introduce themselves for job opportunities. 2. Newsletter Email newsletters are a form of advertising that targets previous customers or users who have shown interest in a service or product but have not used it yet. Unlike cold calls, opt-in email newsletters are initiated by users who have previously established contact, but the advertising strategies are similar. 3. Targeted Ads Based on the user’s browsing history, targeted advertising follows the same principles as cold calling but with the added advantage of having more information about the user. The same applies to music, videos, and online shopping recommendation algorithms. 4. Social Media Requested Instead of relying on telephone conversations, some businesses may use social media to contact potential customers. This approach is particularly common among young entrepreneurs and those involved in direct sales schemes. How VoIP Can Improve Cold Calling For Businesses Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) can significantly enhance the cold calling process by providing cost-effective and efficient communication solutions. With VoIP, businesses can leverage high-quality voice calls over the Internet, eliminating the need for traditional phone lines and reducing communication expenses. VoIP offers features such as call recording, automated dialing, and integration with customer relationship management (CRM) systems, enabling sales representatives to streamline their workflow and access relevant information during calls. The scalability of VoIP allows businesses to quickly expand their cold-calling efforts without the hassle of installing additional hardware. Overall, VoIP transforms cold calling into a more flexible, cost-efficient, and productive endeavor, ultimately improving the chances of successful sales interactions. Conclusion – Cold Calling In conclusion, cold calling is an important and effective technique that sales professionals can use to reach potential customers and generate leads. Although it can be challenging and nerve-wracking, with the right preparation, approach, and mindset, cold calling can yield great results and help businesses grow. By following the tips and best practices outlined in this guide, sales professionals can improve their cold-calling skills and increase their chances of success. Whether you are a seasoned sales veteran or just starting, mastering the art of cold calling can be a valuable asset that can help you achieve your sales goals and advance your career. Read More: What Is Q SIG? How Q Signaling Works In Telecommunication Read More: What Is A Web Based Application – Benefits and Examples

A Comprehensive Guide To Device As A Service (DaaS)

You may have heard the term “Device as service” or “Daas” because it is getting popular with businesses across all industries. Everything is changing in this advanced tech age, including how products and services are used. For instance, imagine if you can optimize the total cost of hardware, streamline vendors, minimize the IT team’s workloads, reduce tech clutter and provide a higher level of communication security to your remote teams only with a single, smart move. It can be highly beneficial for the productivity and efficiency of business operations. Daas can help you do that and bring transformation that helps your business meet market demands. If you do not know about this technology, do not worry. This article will describe all the essential things you need to know about Devices as a Service. What is a Device as a Service? The Device as a Service bundle offers IT equipment and management services. Simply put, it is a model that can provide your business with IT and hardware support simultaneously. It is a subscription-based or paid service that outsources the software, hardware and management to an external provider. A Daas solution provider is responsible for providing, distributing and managing devices for your workforce in the office, home or field. For example, suppose you are looking for communication equipment and service. In that case, a Daas deployment includes different headsets and hardware related to video calling at a fixed monthly subscription fee. Your Daas provider will also provide IT support to leverage these devices. In recent years, the rise of Device-as-a-Service (DaaS) has led to the emergence of new players in the market, including OTT service providers. These providers offer various services, including device management, security, and support, making it easier for businesses to manage their devices and ensure they are always up-to-date and secure. In addition, when you subscribe to a provider, you can update equipment at the end of the lease period without paying the cost typically associated with a device refresh. Why Is DaaS Becoming Popular? A device as a service is becoming increasingly popular with time because it makes businesses easier by providing several benefits. It is helping businesses in improving organizational infrastructure while saving money. That is why many companies are choosingOpEx (daily expenditures such as hardware subscription) over CapEx (making an upfront investment in owned hardware). Research shows that the DaaS market is growing continuously, and there are no chances of slowing down. According to Grand view research, the global DaaS market size was 30.75 billion dollars in 2020, and it is expected to grow to 37.8% by 2028. We all know that a hybrid work model always comes with challenges. Most businesses had to reimagine their workspaces while accommodating workers looking for more flexibility. However, it is not an easy task to redesign a workspace, and it requires much money. Equipping your remote workforce with the devices they need to complete their tasks securely and efficiently is costly. The DaaS allows businesses to equip their remote employees with the necessary devices through a cost-effective subscription-based service. By choosing the Device as a service model for your business, you can lower your capital cost while ensuring you have all the required equipment and the right infrastructure. What Is The Difference Between Device as a Service And Leasing Equipment? DaaS and leasing equipment are ways to access technology resources without purchasing them outright. It may seem that DaaS is similar to leasing equipment, but there are some differences that you must keep in mind to choose the right option for your business: I. Ownership With leasing equipment, the lessee has temporary ownership of the equipment and is responsible for maintaining it, while with DaaS (Device as a Service), the provider owns and manages the hardware and software, and the customer pays for access to the service. II. Scalability DaaS offers more scalability than leasing equipment, as customers can easily add or remove users and adjust their usage based on their needs. In contrast, leasing equipment often involves fixed terms and limitations on the number of users or devices that can be added. III. Upgrades DaaS providers typically offer regular upgrades and maintenance as part of the service, while lessees may need to negotiate upgrades or pay additional fees. IV. Cost Structure The cost structure of DaaS is typically more predictable, with a fixed monthly fee per user, while leasing equipment often involves upfront costs and variable monthly payments based on the equipment leased. DaaS and leasing equipment offer different benefits and drawbacks depending on the customer’s needs. DaaS is more flexible and easier to scale while leasing equipment offers more control over the equipment and may be more cost-effective in some cases. Benefits of Device as a Service DaaS is becoming a popular choice for forward-thinking businesses due to the following benefits: 1. Reduced Cost DaaS allows businesses to deploy required hardware at any time at a lower monthly rate instead of purchasing costly hardware. You can easily scale your DaaS model as your business scales. It means you will always have the hardware you need for your employees without investing much money. In other words, you can change the hardware cost from capital expenditure to an operating expense. 2. Improved Employee Experience DaaS (Device as a Service) simplifies your tech stack and benefits your IT department and end-users. It provides the latest hardware and software, giving employees confidence that their data is secure. Access to full tech support, regardless of location, allows your workforce to remain productive, efficient, and secure. 3. Device Life Cycle Management With a device-as-a-service solution, device management is taken care of automatically, including updates and patches as needed. It allows you to focus on adding value to your business while your DaaS vendor handles the nitty-gritty details of device management. When a device reaches the end of its life cycle, your DaaS vendor can easily handle its retirement. 4. Consolidation Of Tech Stack Choosing a DaaS provider that can provide both hardware and software will help you simplify your tech stack. 5. Tech Support Have you ever purchased equipment only to find out that if something goes wrong, you can fix it on your own without anyone’s support? Choosing a DaaS model for your business helps you in avoiding such scenarios. It includes maintenance and support. It means that when there is a problem, your Device as a service provider will be present to fix it. If any of your devices are malfunctioning or broken, you can return them for repair or replacement. Yes, it is that simple. 6. Reduces IT Team’s Burden One of the most significant benefits of adopting the DaaS model is its effect on your IT team. According to a study, Device as a service helps reduce IT workloads by up to 16%, and small businesses benefit the most. It is an advanced service model that helps businesses streamline their workflows by providing their team members with the right equipment for optimal performance. Things To Consider When Choosing DaaS For Your Business Once you decide that you want to enjoy the benefits that come with a device as a service model, there are some factors that you need to consider. These factors will help you choose which DaaS solution is best for your business. 1. Determine Your Business Needs Planning is the key to success, so it is essential to identify your business needs. If you already have devices in your workplace, make a list of them and compare them to what you need to have. Consider how your devices will be used and what integration you need to streamline your business operations and support your employees. 2. Business Size When choosing a device as a service for your business, remember that your business size matters. How many devices you need for your business depends on your current business size, employee number, and desired workflows. Always choose a lender who can fulfil your current needs and be able to scale when your business grows. 3. Choose The Top Level of Hardware One major advantage that DaaS solutions provide your businesses is the ability to use state-of-the-art hardware without making a huge capital investment. You do not need to use inferior hardware due to the low budget. Choose a DaaS provider that offers top-class hardware to enjoy a professional experience. 4. Consolidate When Possible Another benefit that you can get from the DaaS model is decluttering your tech stack. But it is only possible when you choose your provider wisely. We suggest you choose a vendor offering software, hardware, and IT management all in one place. 5. Look For Support Options Excellent support is an essential part of a robust DaaS solution. Look for a provider ready to offer support anytime, anywhere, to keep your business operations running smoothly. If you find support options lacking, move to another vendor to avoid any inconvenience later. 6. Security Security is another major factor you must consider when choosing your DaaS vendor. Your vendor must have the best security to protect your business and workforce. Once you examine all the points we mentioned above, it will become easier for you to find a DaaS provider according to your choice. You must research, shop around and interview a few vendors before deciding. Conclusion – Device As a Service In conclusion, DaaS is a subscription-based model offering businesses IT equipment and management services. It provides a range of devices and IT support to the office, home, or field employees. By outsourcing software, hardware, and management to an external provider, businesses can focus on adding value to their operations while the provider handles the management and lifecycle of the devices. With DaaS, businesses can change the hardware cost from a capital expenditure to an operating expense, allowing them to easily scale their operations without investing large sums of money. Additionally, access to the latest hardware and software and full tech support ensures a productive, efficient, and secure workforce, regardless of location. Read More: Is It legal To Record Conversation In The UK ? Read More: The Benefits Of Integrating IoT with VoIP System

Can VoIP Be Hacked or Tapped and What to Do About It

Like all other phone systems VoIP phones can be hacked or tapped. As they run over the internet cybercriminals can exploit them to harm your business. However, different measures can be taken for making secure VoIP calls. VoIP phone systems are distinct from traditional setups because they do not require extensive copper wiring throughout an office. Instead, these systems rely on virtual connections established through an internet connection. However, the reliance on cloud hosting can lead to significant security concerns, particularly given the prevalence of hacking attempts. The proliferation of the Internet of Things has further complicated matters, making it difficult to verify caller identities and increasing the likelihood of data breaches resulting from social engineering tactics. A small business stands to suffer significant financial losses if targeted by hackers, making it crucial to take proactive measures to prevent VoIP fraud. Implementing a few straightforward precautions can greatly reduce the likelihood of such incidents. Ensuring that key settings on phones, routers, and the business phone system are secure can help prevent unauthorized access and protect against the drain of financial resources, employee time, and productivity. Here in this article, we will describe VoIP hacking, its types and how you can prevent your VoIP phone systems from being hacked. What Is VoIP Hacking? ‘VoIP hacking’ refers to any malicious attack hackers use to gain unauthorized access or steal data from a business’s phone system. Typically, cybercriminals aim to eavesdrop on calls, obtain sensitive information about the company and its clients, and even make international calls that result in substantial charges. These attacks on IP telephony systems often occur when a business insider unknowingly provides information to scammers, enabling them to take control of the VoIP phone system. Once breached, the phone system can serve as a gateway for further criminal activities, such as impersonating the company, charging credit cards, and accessing sensitive client information. Remaining up-to-date on potential threats to business phone systems and reviewing strategies to secure communications with your provider is crucial to maintaining the integrity of your system. Types Of VoIP Hacking VoIP systems are vulnerable to security risks due to their reliance on the internet and distinct setup compared to traditional telephone systems. As such, it is essential to be aware of the following five types of VoIP hacking: 1. Unauthorised Use In this type of phone system attack, cybercriminals exploit your company’s phone network to make fraudulent calls posing as your organization. By using auto-dialing software and robocalls with your IP telephony system, the criminals can reach out to unsuspecting recipients who think it’s your company calling. Once the victims pick up the phone, they receive a pre-recorded message that directs them to take specific actions, such as revealing sensitive information like credit card details, under the pretext of account verification. However, in reality, the attackers are using your phone line to carry out their nefarious activities. The consequences of this hacking can be severe, as hackers can access sensitive information, leading to financial loss and reputational damage for your business. Moreover, since the recipient sees your caller ID, the attackers can easily impersonate your company, making it even more challenging to detect fraud. If you use a DIY VoIP phone setup, this hacking can go unnoticed for a long time. However, you can take preventive measures by monitoring your call logs regularly and setting up alerts if you reach a specific limit. Doing so can catch any suspicious activity and stop the attackers in their tracks. 2. Spoofing Although most people rely on their caller ID to identify incoming calls, it is not always a foolproof method of determining the call’s origin. Hackers can exploit this trust by using fake caller IDs to deceive you into thinking the call comes from a known or local number. It can make it easier for attackers to leverage social engineering tactics and manipulate your staff into divulging sensitive information. Employees often priorities calls from familiar or trusted numbers, which can put them at risk of inadvertently sharing confidential details if the caller ID appears to be from a reputable source, such as your VoIP provider. Unfortunately, sharing such critical information with hackers can give them access to your company’s cloud-based phone system, causing significant damage to your business. Therefore, it is essential to educate your staff on the dangers of blindly trusting caller IDs and to establish protocols for verifying the identity of incoming calls. Doing so can prevent cybercriminals from exploiting this vulnerability and keep your business safe from harm. 3. Toll Fraud Hackers can commit toll fraud by making expensive international calls and charging the bills to your company’s account. Cybercriminals may use phishing scams to target admins and system users to gain unauthorized access to your VoIP system. One way they can achieve this is by leaving a voicemail for a department within your organization, asking them to confirm confidential information such as bank details. If an employee falls for the ruse and provides the verification codes, such as the IP address and phone system password, the attackers can gain access to your system. Once the hackers have obtained the necessary information, they can hack into your internet-based phone system. From there, they can make unauthorized use of your VoIP service to make long-distance calls, resulting in exorbitant bills charged to your account. To prevent toll fraud, educating your staff on how to identify and report phishing scams is crucial. Additionally, you should implement robust security measures, such as multi-factor authentication and regular system monitoring, to detect and prevent unauthorized access to your VoIP system. Taking these precautions can safeguard your business from this costly cybercrime. 4. Eavesdropping If your business accepts payments over the phone or requires customers to provide personal information during phone calls, it is crucial to prevent eavesdropping. This cyber attack occurs when hackers listen to your real-time business phone conversations or recordings, such as voicemails. Eavesdropping is possible only when the connection is unencrypted or the local network is breached. Insecure Wi-Fi networks that lack Transport Layer Security (TLS) and Real-time Transport Protocol (SRTP) are particularly vulnerable to eavesdropping attacks, as they allow hackers to monitor the network and intercept sensitive information. Hackers can gather information on your organization and your customers by eavesdropping on your business phone calls. They can access every interaction your business has had, potentially exposing sensitive data and putting your business at risk. It is crucial to use secure communication protocols such as TLS and SRTP to encrypt your business phone calls and mitigate the risk of eavesdropping. Additionally, you should educate your employees on the dangers of insecure Wi-Fi networks and establish protocols for identifying and reporting suspicious activity on your phone lines. Taking these precautions can keep your business and customers safe from eavesdropping attacks. 5. Social Engineering Social engineering is a hacking technique that relies on human interaction rather than exploiting VoIP system vulnerabilities. Due to their friendly nature, employees may unknowingly divulge information that attackers can use for future crimes. One contributing factor to the success of social engineering attacks is employees’ lack of awareness and education on the risks of fraudulent phone calls and caller ID spoofing. How Can You That Your VoIP Phone Is Hacked While VoIP phone systems offer cost-saving benefits of up to 80%, there has been a recent surge in attempts to hack these networks. Research shows that corporate clients face over 40,000 VoIP/SIP attacks daily. There are three indications that your VoIP system may have been compromised: A sudden rise in your phone bill. Unknown numbers in your VoIP call history. Increase in calls outside your working hours. How Can You Protect Your VoIP Phone System From Hacking? VoIP hacking can lead to significant monetary losses for your business, damage your reputation and waste time trying to recover. However, there are steps you can take to prevent or mitigate the majority of VoIP vulnerabilities. Here we will describe some strategies that help you prevent VoIP hacking: 1. Choose The Right VoIP Provider The security of your phone system largely depends on the service provider you choose. A provider with weak security measures makes it easier for hackers to breach your phone network and access sensitive information. Before signing up with any VoIP service provider, checking their security policy is important. Here are some things you must look for: The provider should clearly outline their commitment to network security and the measures they have in place to ensure it. They should have a process for reporting vulnerabilities and a plan of action in case of a hack. The provider should have relevant accreditations demonstrating their commitment to security best practices. They should have a responsible security disclosure program in place. The provider should demonstrate good security practices. Ask your provider about their certifications and accreditations, and don’t hesitate to switch to a different provider if they cannot provide this information. 2. Control Admin Access Having administrative rights to your VoIP infrastructure gives a person control over everything in your internet-based phone system. With admin permissions, they can set up new phone lines, manage bills, join conference calls, and access all data, potentially leading to harmful intrusions. Selecting the staff members with admin permissions is crucial, only giving access to those who truly need it. The fewer employees with administrator access, the better, as this reduces the risk of social engineering attacks. Mistakes can happen, so limiting permissions for staff members can help minimize the impact of any errors that may occur. 3. Use VPN Remote staff who use phones to communicate with colleagues and clients are at risk of VoIP hacking. To protect against phone system attacks, all employees must install VPN on their work machines, smartphones, and softphones. VPN strengthens the connection between their devices and your VoIP phone system, providing the same level of security as a strong office network. 4. Monitor Call Logs Analyzing your call log can reveal each call’s time, number, and location, allowing you to track your regular call activity and detect any anomalies that may indicate a hack. Regularly reviewing your VoIP access log can help identify intrusions, such as unauthorized sign-ins from strange IP addresses or administrative access outside of work hours. 5. Use Two Factor Authorization It is not enough to rely on strong passwords to enhance VoIP security and prevent hacking attempts on your phone system. Users should implement two-factor authentication for an additional layer of protection. It can be done using an authenticator app, verbalizing a secret code, or fingerprint identification. These measures ensure that even if a hacker obtains the password, they won’t be able to access the system without the second-step credentials. 6. Regularly Update Your VoIP System Failing to update your VoIP operating systems and firmware can leave your phone system vulnerable to avoidable hacking. Regular updates can address any weaknesses software developers identify, so ensuring your business phone operating System and firmware are up-to-date is essential. Fortunately, most updates can be done by your staff, and the systems often have features that prompt or schedule updates without interrupting work hours. However, if your staff is unable to update the system or devices, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from your provider. Conclusion – VoIP Be Hacked or Tapped VoIP is a communication system that uses the internet to transmit signals. Thus, there are chances of security breaches. However, you can protect your VoIP system from hacking by using measures such as strong passwords, keeping your software up-to-date, using encryption, implementing access controls, regularly monitoring call logs, educating your staff, and using a trusted VoIP provider. By taking these preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of VoIP hacking and keep your business safe from harm. Remember to stay vigilant and keep up-to-date with the latest security threats to ensure your VoIP system remains secure. Read More: The Benefits Of Integrating IoT with VoIP System Read More: What Is Q SIG? How Q Signaling Works In Telecommunication

Is It legal To Record Conversation In The UK ?

People usually want to record phone calls conversations to help their memory or feel safer when there is a call from an unknown number. It is a common question that it is legal to record a conversation in UK? Yes, Recording a phone call conversation is legal in UK as long as it is for personal use. However, to record a call, you must do it securely and safely by complying with the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) laws. The laws for call recording in the UK varies between individuals and businesses and it is essential to understand this difference to avoid any inconvenience. Businesses must record phone calls for several purposes and be familiar with the GDPR laws. Here in this article, we will describe everything you need to know about GDPR to understand how to record calls ethically. What Is GDPR? GDPR is an acronym for General Data Protection Regulation, a set of privacy and security laws instituted by Europe. It came into effect in 2018, and this act is designed to impose regulations about how data is collected. Thus it is important to know how it can affect your business and its data collection and call recording policies. According to the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA), individuals can tape conversations. However, legislation states that sharing this information with a third party violates this law, so GDPR was created to guide safe data sharing. We can say that it is legal to record a call or collect data; it is illegal, however, to share this data with third parties without permission. Is GDPR Still Applying to Call Recording After Brexit? Yes, GDPR rules are still applied on call recordings even though the UK is set to leave the EU. Companies also need to comply with it if they continue their business with EU companies without being subject to fines. It means no significant change occurs legally regarding call recordings despite Brexit. So how you record your business or individual phone calls conversations is still very important. Numerous standalone UK laws have similar clauses to GDPR to protect data privacy. Since GDPR deals with individual privacy, it is intrinsically linked to two other pieces of UK legislation, which are: Data Protection Act 1998 Human Rights Act 1998 Data Protection 1998 and the updated 2018 Act state that to record a business call where either party is identified, you have to inform the secondary party how the recorded information will be used, gain consent from the other party and keep data at a safe and accessible location. What Is Meant By Ethical Call Recording? Pieces of legislation such as GDPR are introduced to establish what ethical data recording should look like. The law states that call recordings must be kept private and only be obtained in the case of business or public interests. For any other type of call recording, it is crucial to get the other party’s consent before collecting data. The current GDPR legislation consists of a comprehensive set of guidelines on sharing data, specifically when someone shares data in exchange for profit. However, it is a long document, so it is better to understand the key takeaways of the ethical calling. An ethical call recording is kept private and obtained only in case of public or business interest, such as using call recording as evidence to settle a dispute or building further intelligence about internal fraud. On the other hand, non-ethical call recording has only the interest of a single party and includes tapping into a competitor’s phone system for your benefit. The UK law does not allow call interception as per the Interception of Communication Act 1985. GDPR usually focuses on individual privacy but also covers employees’ privacy. As a business owner, you must be aware of how recording calls can breach the privacy of your internal parties. It is essential to notify relevant team members about your call recording policy. For example, if you have to record calls for quality or training purposes, mention them in the training material or employee handbook. What Are GDPR’s Laws For Individuals? According to GDPR rules, recording personal calls in the UK is legal. The Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA) is the main act that regulates call recordings. For individuals, there are no strict rules for recording a call as long as it is for personal use. Recording a call is not an issue, but what you will do with this information matters. If you share this information with a third party without the permission of the person being recorded, this act becomes illegal. Thus it is always essential to keep this information confidential so that no GDPR issue arises. How Can you Comply With GDPR For Call Recording? If you want to record phone calls while being compliant with GDPR, you must focus on the intended use of recorded data. You can do it in the following ways: 1. Ask for Caller’s Consent The most important rule is to ask for the caller’s consent before recording. You can do it by notifying your customers every time that they are subject to being recorded. In addition, if you have to share this information with third parties, such as your partners, you must inform your customer base first. 2. Conduct GDPR-Specific Call Recording If you want to complete the call recording process legally, you must train your staff about the rules of GDPR. They also have to be compliant, which means implementing these guidelines to prevent common in-office mistakes such as leaving confidential information lying around, repeating sensitive information aloud over the phone or skipping disclaimers about call recording. 3. Store Data Securely Now that you know sharing recorded data is not recommended, storing your customers’ data securely is crucial to prevent data theft. Because if someone steals your data, you may lose your reputation and face legal issues. How To Record Your Business Phone Calls? The GDPR rules regarding business and individual phone calls differ, so you must be aware of how to record business calls to ensure compliance. According to Telecommunication Regulations 2000, businesses are allowed to record calls without consent for any of the following purposes: Call recording as evidence of business exchange. Reviewing the quality standards Check business compliance with regulations Prevention or detection of criminal activities Investigation of any suspicious activity Suppose you are recording calls for any of the above reasons. In that case, it is a good idea to register with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) to state that your business will securely keep customers’ personal information. Although you are not legally bound to tell your customers about call recording, it is a good practice to put an automated disclaimer in place. According to GDPR rules, you must document how you will process your customer’s data if you need to record your business calls. Switch To VoIP And Enjoy Easy Call Recording By adopting a VoIP phone system, businesses can seamlessly integrate call recording into their communication processes, providing a valuable tool for quality assurance, training, and compliance. VoIP makes call recording easy and efficient, allowing organizations to capture and store conversations in a digital format. This feature is particularly beneficial for sales and customer service teams, as it enables them to review interactions, identify areas for improvement, and ensure compliance with industry regulations. The convenience of call recording on a VoIP system contributes to enhanced transparency, accountability, and overall communication effectiveness, making it a valuable asset for businesses looking to optimize their operations and customer interactions. Conclusion – Call Recording is Legal or Not Recording a conversation in the UK without the caller’s consent is illegal. However, individuals can tape conversations for personal use, as stated in the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA). GDPR laws must be followed when recording calls to ensure data privacy and security. GDPR applies to call recordings even after Brexit. Ethical call recording involves keeping the recording private and obtaining consent from the other party before collecting data. GDPR laws require individuals to inform the secondary party how the recorded information will be used, gain consent from the other party, and keep data at a safe and accessible location. Businesses must focus on the intended use of recorded data, ask for caller consent, conduct GDPR-specific call recording, and store data securely. Read More: A Comprehensive Guide to Secure Your Mobile App from Cyber Attacks Read More: Top 5 Challenges of VoIP and Solutions

The Benefits Of Integrating IoT with VoIP System

For several decades the advancement in technology has revolutionised the telecommunication industry. VoIP (voice over internet protocol) has become very popular among businesses, and with time more and more businesses are moving towards this advanced communication system. However, VoIP is not the only technology transforming the communication industry. There are many others, such as IoT (Internet of Things). Different types of IoT systems and applications play a role in transforming business models, improving productivity, and pushing companies forward. Both technologies are playing a role in improving business communication and productivity. Here in this article, we will explain what IoT and VoIP are and how the integration of VoIP with IoT can benefit your business. What Is VoIP? Voice over internet protocol or VoIP is a phone system that uses the internet to make and receive calls instead of traditional phone lines. It means you can make calls without physical copper wires if you have a reliable internet connection. You only need a VoIP service Provider to handle your calls and a high-speed internet connection. The best thing about VoIP is that it does not bind you to your office desk. You can use your VoIP number on any mobile device, computer or laptop by installing VoIP apps. Choosing a well-reputed service provider who can manage everything for you is essential. VoIP phone systems convert your voice signals into data packets and transmit them online. It helps businesses in reducing call costs. VoIP offers many other benefits over traditional phone services. What Is IoT? The concept of smart devices started in 1982, but the actual birth of IoT was between 2008 to 2009n, when more things were connected to the internet than people. IoT refers to the internet of “things” or everyday objects that can perform automated tasks and collect and share data or information over the internet. You may be wondering why it is called the internet of things. Let’s find out the answer to this question. Initially, when the internet evolved, it was the internet of computers. Since new internet-based applications and devices have emerged, such as mobile phones, cameras, IP phones, and tablets, the internet has become the internet of devices. In recent years, with more actual objects being connected to the internet, it has become more diverse. Internet connections include cars, thermostats, refrigerators, municipal lights, etc. No single category can encompass all these objects, which is why the word things are used to include all possible objects connected to the internet. According to some analysts, the number of things connected to the internet will grow by 22% annually between now and 2025, which may ultimately result in 27.1 billion connected things. Benefits Of Integrating VoIP And IoT It is a fact that VoIP and IoT use the same network infrastructure, called the IP network. So they can be seamlessly integrated to get more benefits. Here we describe some significant benefits your business can get through this integration. 1. Removing Onsite Security and Controlling Access Online and offline securities among businesses worldwide due to the rise in cyber crimes and fraud. Businesses operating in both realms are looking for tools and technologies to protect their sensitive data. IoT solutions provide security across communication channels such as SMS and voice services and improve onsite security for your business premises. With the help of IoT imaging devices like IP cameras and similar access systems, you have full access control in your office. However, you can also configure such systems to your VoIP endpoints so that your security personnel and employees can call from any device accessing a live feed. Moreover, these devices can automatically call your phone or any other device during an important event. 2. VoIP Allows Automation Via IoT Automation of day-to-day operations is the most significant pillar to improving efficiency in any modern workplace. IoT and VoIP both play an important role in creating an automated work environment. Some ways IoT and VoIP come together include automation of communication in offices like auto attendants. Interactivity between VoIP and IoT-enabled devices also helps in automation. Whenever choosing a VoIP service provider keep in mind to have a closer look at the guide of their VoIP systems. It will help you find how to leverage different VoIP plans to automate tasks and devices around your office through phone communication. VoIP providers should allow easy IoT integration and automation of software and devices in your workplace and remotely. 3. Streamline Workflow With IoT Sensors And VoIP IoT sensors alone may not be important in a growth-oriented company. But integrating these sensors into a workplace and VoIP can help you automate all your workflow-related tasks on certain criteria. You can set the criteria according to your business needs. Once the criteria are met, the IoT sensors leverage VoIP systems to make a call that will trigger a sequence of actions accordingly. You can use this integration for inventory management, product organisation or management of automated warehouses. 4. Smart Work Environment The advancement in technology is constantly changing the way we do business, and it is also changing the way we communicate with our customers, clients and employees. Like the concept of IoT-driven smart homes, smart offices are also becoming popular. They have emerged due to the need to enhance the comfort and functionality of workplaces. The internet of things is a technology that allows business owners to create smart offices, and VoIP can complement IoT solutions in multiple ways. Since VoIP can easily integrate with IoT solutions, your employees can collaborate or interact using various IoT-enabled devices and VoIP phones in the office or remotely. It means your employees can share information with each other no matter where they are and streamline their business processes. 5. Fuel Business Intelligence By Combining VoIP and IoT Data It is important to note that VoIP systems and IOT can help you enhance your business intelligence service by combining data collection and processing. VoIP phones have various advanced features, such as call reporting and analytics. At the same time, IoT systems can collect data from different areas of your business. All departments of your business can benefit from vast amounts of data if IoT and VoIP are combined for data collection and management. How Can VoIP And IoT Transform Businesses? VoIP alone has brought numerous benefits to businesses, such as reducing calling costs while providing advanced features that improve flexibility and productivity. And by combining VoIP and IoT applications, businesses can get a competitive edge. Here are some examples that can help you understand what your business can do by integrating VoIP with IoT: By using a VoIP device such as a mobile or laptop, users can adjust the temperature or lighting of their workplace and reserve their desk space. You can also connect your calendars to your VoIP devices to be notified about upcoming meetings. For users who need to travel frequently, connecting their devices to the internet can help them track down things and prevent losing their gadgets. In addition, with the help of cloud storage, they can prevent losing their important data. You can get notifications or alerts when any device needs maintenance or repair. Employees at different locations can share documents or files in any format using any device. Remote employees can connect their devices to any office equipment without the IT staff’s help. It helps them conveniently report to the branch office and saves them time. Employees can also connect their smart devices to search for available office parking spaces. Conclusion – IoT with VoIP System VoIP is an advanced communication system that significantly transforms businesses communication or collaboration. In contrast, IoT is an evolving technology creating new opportunities for business growth. VoIP and IoT can work side by side to make your business future-proof. With this integration, your business can achieve results beyond your expectations. These technologies can take your business processes to the next level while providing convenience to your employees. Read More: What Is Q SIG? How Q Signaling Works In Telecommunication Read More: What Is a POTS Line? Do Your Business Needs One

What Is A Web Based Application – Benefits and Examples

In today’s competitive market, maximizing user interaction and capturing market segments has become necessary. Customized web-based applications are the best ways to reach your customers. With the help of such apps, users can interact with you using a web browser window. The development of web apps has been present in the market for decades. Over time, more and more business owners understand its importance and get a web app developed to represent their business or brand. Now you can see many such apps, including online retail sales, online auctions, online banking and webmail. The advanced and complex programming led us to apps with simpler user functions. Web app developers provide their services to give our customers a finer user experience. It also improves user interaction in a way that was not possible before. In this article, we will explain a web app, how it benefits your business and some examples of web-based apps. What Is A Web Based Application? A web based application is a computer program stored on a remote server and uses web technology and web browsers to perform various tasks over the internet. By definition, web services are web apps. However, not all websites have web apps. The demand for web apps is increasing continuously because they do not need a download. Users can access a web app using any web browser, such as Google and internet explorer. Web developers offer their services to design web apps for various users, from the individual level to larger organizations. Web apps commonly used include e-commerce, webmail, and online calculators. How Do Web Based Apps Work? Web based applications do not require any download because they can be accessed on web browsers. Users only need to know the URL of the web app and start using it through their browser. Above all, you need an internet connection to use a web app. Now let’s see what you need to operate a web based app: Web server application server Database These are the three components that work together to run a web app. A web server works to manage the requests coming from a client, while an application server completes the requested tasks. The function of the database is to store all the necessary information. Web applications usually take a little time to develop and do not need a large team of developers. Developers write most web apps in HTML5, CSS or JavaScript to develop the front end of these apps, while the back end of the web application is developed by using apps such as Python, Ruby, and Java. If planning for web based app development is done carefully, the app development process will not take long. Benefits Of Web Based Applications For Businesses A web based applications can provide numerous benefits to your business, some of which are as follows: 1. Accessible From Anywhere Unlike traditional applications, Saas applications can be used on any web browser and work efficiently on all operating systems. Users can use your web app anytime, anywhere, using a mobile device and internet connection. It also helps in solving problems because of the consistency of every user. This accessibility opens up modern and exciting possibilities such as having teams globally, remote working and real-time collaboration. The idea of sitting in front of your office computer has become a thing of the past. Web apps offer more flexibility and ease. For example, with VoIP apps, your employees can make and receive calls no matter where they are. 2. Cost Effective Development As described above, web-based applications allow users to access a system through a uniform web browser environment. Although the user interaction with the application has to be tested on different browsers, the application only needs to be developed for a single operating system. Web developers do not need to develop and test web apps on all possible operating systems, so you do not need to spend more effort and money on developing a web app. 3. Easy Customization It is easier to customize the user interface of web-based applications than it is for standard desktop applications. It makes it easier to update the application’s look or customise its presentation to different user groups. It means you can get a customized web app according to your target audience and make this app as user-friendly as you can. Web-based applications can also be responsive to change depending on the browser. It supports remote working and ensures employees have all the applications at their fingertips when needed. 4. Easy Installation And Maintenance Another benefit of web-based applications is that it makes installation and maintenance much easier. Whenever an upgrade is installed on the host server, all users have access to this update, and there is no need to upgrade every user’s PC. Rolling out new software and adding new features is easy and only requires that users have up-to-date browser plugins. These upgrades are performed by an experienced professional to a single server, so the results are more reliable and predictable. Moreover, web apps offer easy scalability. You can increase your application capacity if your business grows. 5. Increased Security Since web-based applications are deployed on dedicated servers, it is easier to monitor them. These servers are monitored and maintained by experienced server operators. It is far more effective and easy to monitor a single server instead of monitoring hundreds or thousands of clients’ computers as in desktop applications. It means the security of web apps is tighter, and potential breaches can be noticed and fixed more quickly. It means the risk of unauthorised access is significantly reduced. Difference Between Web Applications And Mobile Applications In particular, mobile apps are more popular than web apps. Native mobile apps are software developed on a specific device or operating system such as Android or iOS. They are developed by using specific programming languages to work on certain platforms. You need to download and install mobile apps from an app store. These apps also access system resources such as camera functions or GPS. Mobile apps run only on the device where they are installed. On the other hand, web apps can adapt to any device you want to use by using its URL. You do not need to download it. Thus, it offers more flexibility and easy access. Examples Of Web Based Applications With the increasing use of the internet, the number of web applications has also increased. Every business owner wants to improve customer interaction and get more leads, and our applications help them reach more customers online. There are different types of web applications, including web services. Here are a few examples of web apps: VoIP Business desktop app (including voice calls, messaging, and video meetings) Photo and video editing apps Email Word processors Online shopping carts Presentations Spreadsheets Google Workspace brings numerous web apps, such as Google docs and spreadsheets, under one roof and is commonly used by businesses. Using it lets your team members work on the same document simultaneously without downloading, uploading or sending files. Is VoIP Phone System A Web Based Application? A VoIP phone system itself is not inherently a web-based application. VoIP is the technology that allows voice communication over the Internet instead of traditional phone lines. It typically involves hardware (IP phones and routers) and software components (including servers and call management software) to facilitate voice communication over the Internet. While some VoIP services may have web-based interfaces for user management, configuration, or accessing certain features, the core functionality of a VoIP phone system is not limited to web-based applications. VoIP phone systems can operate independently of web browsers, and users can often interact with them through dedicated hardware devices, desktop applications, or mobile apps. Conclusion – Web Based Application Web-based applications, or web apps, are computer programs stored on a remote server and can be accessed using web browsers to perform various tasks over the internet. Some examples of web-based apps are online retail sales, online auctions, online banking, and webmail. Web developers design web apps for individual users as well as larger organizations. Web apps usually consist of three components: web server, application server, and database. The benefits of web apps for businesses include accessibility from anywhere, cost-effective development, easy customization, easy installation and maintenance, and increased security. The difference between web and mobile applications is that mobile apps are software developed for use on a specific device or operating system and are downloaded from an app store. Read More: Rise of Mobile Payment Solutions and Its Impact on the Telecommunications Industry Read More: A Comprehensive Guide to Secure Your Mobile App from Cyber Attacks

What Is a POTS Line? Do Your Business Needs One

A POTs line is a copper wires network connected to a standard phone that provides power and connectivity to the service provider’s central switching system. We all know everything is going digital, including communication, such as making calls or sending messages. However, the traditional phone lines have not completely vanished. You may have heard about POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) line or PSTN (Public switched Telephone Network) before; these are traditional phone services, and many businesses still use them for business communication. In the past, POTS was called the post office Telephone system, but now it is known as Plain Old Telephone Service. Here in this article, we will describe what the POTS line is and whether it is suitable for your business in this digital age. What Is a POTS Line? POTS stands for Plain Old Telephone Service. When you make a phone call using a traditional handset, your voice is converted into an electric signal which travels through copper wires to reach the recipient. During the call, the tones you hear are signals transmitted through the copper wires that connect your phone to the local exchange. Initially, the telephone system was called Post Office Telephone Service as customers had to depend on postal office operators to manage their calls. However, when the process became automated and was no longer associated with postal offices, it was renamed Plain Old Telephone Service, and the acronym remained unchanged. POTS Lines Used For In the past, making phone calls was a much more complicated process than it is today. You must rely on an operator to manually route your call to the intended recipient by connecting copper wires to a common patch panel. The more the distance between the callers, the more time and effort the operator had to put in, which meant higher call charges. However, Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) introduced “switches” at specific points in the network that help reduce call costs. These switches allowed calls to be automatically directed to local, national, or international destinations, eliminating the need for human operators. How Do POTS Lines Work In This Digital Age? When you make a phone call, the network switch listens to the dialed tones and interprets the phone number as the destination you want to reach. It then routes your call through one or more switches until it reaches the person or company you are trying to contact. For traditional calls, POTS must keep the calling switches open for the entire duration of the conversation so that the electric impulses can travel between the devices. The more switches that need to remain open, especially for longer distances, the higher the call costs. For business calls, the call is directed to a Private Branch Exchange (PBX), which acts as a switch within the company’s office and connects multiple on-site phones. What Is The Cost Of A POTS Calling System? One significant challenge associated with Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) is the cost. If you want to install a new phone line in your office, you must pay for the required copper wires, hardware, and technician fees to install everything. You must also purchase compatible PBX devices and features like call forwarding, intercom, and call transfers. Moreover, international calling and IT technician fees will add to the cost, quickly increasing the overall expenses. However, the real problem is the rising costs of maintaining the ageing copper lines. After years of use, the telephone poles and wiring require frequent maintenance to prevent breakdowns. Replacement parts are also becoming scarce since they are no longer produced, and the number of technicians who can maintain these lines is dwindling, as many have already retired. All of these factors make it challenging to keep POTS lines operational, and as a result, the costs of analogue phone calls in many areas are increasing. Why There Is A Need To Replace POTS Line? It is now crucial to consider replacing Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) lines, and here’s why: 1. POTS Line Are Going To End Soon The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced that large telephone service providers can discontinue their POTS lines. Consequently, many major providers have transitioned to cellular or VoIP networks and ended their traditional POTS line services. Therefore, if you are looking for a reliable long-term communication solution, POTS lines are no longer viable. 2. Dependencies Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) lines have several limitations, including fixed locations. They only allow you to operate your telephone within the areas covered by the POTS lines. Additionally, you may be restricted from using your telephone from a specific location within your home or office. Moreover, if you plan on adding more telephones to your property, you must install more copper connections to accommodate them. 3. Cost And Maintenance Establishing a POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) line requires a cumbersome process of connecting end-users with an extensive copper wire network, which can be expensive and time-consuming. Maintaining the copper-wired connection also poses significant challenges, such as the need to hire someone to set it up and the responsibility to fix any damages caused by factors such as a storm. However, with newer technologies such as cellular and VoIP landline services, wireless phone services are becoming a more cost-effective and user-friendly alternative to POTS lines. POTS VS VoIP: Which One To Choose? In contrast to POTS, an analogue means of communication, VoIP represents the digital equivalent. Rather than relying on hardware and cables, VoIP uses the Internet and a router for its operations. Companies are increasingly opting to switch from POTS to VoIP due to its simplicity, affordability, and broader range of features. While mobile phones offer a middle ground, they lack a VoIP call centre’s extensive features and robustness. Although mobile phones are modern and flexible, they don’t provide features such as auto attendants, IVR, callback, and skills-based routing. In this context, it’s worth examining how VoIP technology compares with POTS regarding mobility, cost-effectiveness, and capabilities. Mobility One of the major advantages of VoIP technology is its flexibility in terms of workforce mobility. With a stable internet connection and access to the VoIP service, employees can answer internet calls from anywhere, whether at home, a café, or a local park. Moreover, employees can choose their preferred device for work and even switch between devices as needed. For instance, they can switch from a desk phone to a mobile phone and continue using the VoIP solution as long as the required software is installed. Features When comparing the features of VoIP platforms to PBXs, it becomes apparent that VoIP systems offer a wide range of tools that are not available in even the most advanced PBX plans. Here are some examples of the features available within VoIP: Video conferencing IVR menu Call recording Call forwarding Toll-free number Call queuing Text messages One of the advantages of VoIP technology is that it provides numerous features without additional costs. Moreover, VoIP platforms can be easily integrated with various business tools used by your team, such as email platforms, CRMs, or help desks. By having all the necessary data in one place, collaboration and teamwork can be much smoother and more efficient. Conclusion – POTS Line Yes, businesses still use POTS lines for communication, but it is becoming less common as newer technologies such as cellular and VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) are taking over. A POTS line is a traditional phone service that uses copper wires to transmit electrical signals from a standard phone to the central switching system of the phone service provider. It works by routing calls through switches, eliminating the need for human operators. However, POTS lines are costly to install and maintain, and many large telephone service providers are discontinuing their POTS line services. Businesses may need to replace their POTS lines with newer technologies like VoIP for more cost-effective and user-friendly communication. Read More: VoIP Vs POTS Lines : How VoIP Is Different From POTS Lines Read More: Why VoIP is Blocked in the UAE? Why VoIP Calls are Banned in UAE?

What Is Call Pop? How It Is Beneficial For Your Business

Call pop is a feature that provides real time data about our customer, whenever a call comes in. It helps call agents in resolving queries quickly and improve customers satisfaction. When it comes to business communication or customer support service, callers’ expectations are high, and businesses also want to improve customer experience. Whenever customers call your business, they want to reach the appropriate agent who can resolve their issues quickly and have the whole interaction tailored to their needs. However, it is not easy for a business to meet the specific needs of individual customers. There are days when hundreds of calls come in, and employees barely find time to catch their breath before answering one call after another. On top of that, agents can’t check each caller’s details before answering a call. It means they must do it during the call, which is time-consuming and interrupts their focus. However, VoIP phones have a calling feature known as call pop, allowing agents to have all the necessary information before they start a call. If you don’t know much about call pop features, do not worry. We will describe what call pop is, how it works and how it can benefit your business. What Is Call Pop? Call pop is a feature which lets you know your customers before you pick up a call. When customers call you, call pop displays a screen with real-time customers information, including: The company in which they work Their name and other personal information Previous interaction with your firm (calls, messages or emails) Purchase history Notes or comments agents made about that customer How long have they been with you Payment details This data will come from business applications you use in your company, such as a helpdesk, CRM or a ticketing platform. When a call comes in, the system recognizes the phone number or the information that a customer entered into the IVR, and the call pop matches this data with the customer’s profile within a second. Then it displays all the information to the agent handling the call. With call pop, your call agents will not waste time searching customers’ data from their databases. Instead, they can quickly look at real-time customer data cards to know who they are talking to. It also allows you to update a customer profile or add notes when they are on call. Now they do not need to write down what a customer said somewhere else or add everything to the database after the call, as they can make instantaneous notes during calls. Why Do Businesses Need Call Pop? This tool has two significant advantages: improved customer experience and improved agent productivity. According to a Hubspot survey, 33% of people stated it is frustrating to repeat themselves to multiple call representatives while contacting the right customer support agent. It is even more frustrating when the other support agent gives you the same tips or suggestions as the first one did. You can avoid such situations with the help of a call pop-up because your employees can see a call pop-screen before every call. So they will know who is calling and also look at the previous history of callers. You do not need to ask customers to repeat their issues, and do not frustrate the callers by asking questions that a caller has already answered. As an additional benefit, a call pop screen is helpful for you to provide personalized service to your customers. Since most customers only engage with personalized messages, it will help you increase customer satisfaction. What Are The Benefits Of Call Pop? Call pop is highly beneficial for businesses dealing with large numbers of calls, especially for call centres. Here are a few benefits that call pop brings to your business. 1. Personalised Communication Having information about the caller even before you attend the call will help your agents to personalise conversations with the caller. This way, you can easily upsell your service to the caller and increase customer satisfaction. If a caller calls you from a new or different number instead of one stored in your database, call pop allows you to add this new number to the customer’s profile so that the customer is identified in the future. 2. Reduce Average Handle Time The agent will not need to search for the caller’s information manually; it will save them time. When a call comes in, call pop will automatically provide your agent with all the required information and help them resolve all the queries equally. It will reduce one of the most important call centre metrics, known as average call handle time. 3. Boost Customer Service When customers call your company, they expect their issues to be resolved on the first call. The faster your agent responds to customers’ questions and resolves their issues, the happier they will be. With the right information at the representative’s fingertips, agents can immediately know what a caller might need. It makes it easier for call agents to give accurate answers to any questions they receive and resolve issues quickly. 4. Reduce Abandonment Rates With less time spent handling each call, your agents can handle more calls daily and lower the number of abandoned or missed calls. If you cannot receive calls, it will increase hold times and result in customers’ frustrations. Thanks to the call pop-up, which helps your staff drastically reduce such problems. It allows agents to see immediately how a previous conversation with a caller went and what suggestions the other agents gave. It can help the current agent to reach the root of the problem even when they have not spoken with that customer previously. 5. Better Sales Conversion As we described earlier, with the reduced average handle time, more and more queries get resolved. It will ultimately lead to better customer experience and better sales conversion. Businesses that focus on enhancing customer experience also witness increased revenue. When a customer has had a good service experience with your company, there are chances that they will recommend your company to friends or family. Reviews and customer referrals help you reach more customers and help you create a strong brand image. Does Your Business Need Call Pop? Although call pop provides numerous benefits, not every business needs this feature. Now you may be thinking about how to determine whether your business needs this feature. Here are some points that can help you find the answer: You need to determine the average call handle time. If you are experiencing a high average handle time, it may be due to the unavailability of necessary customer information. In such a case, you need a call pop. Find what is the call abandonment rate in your company. If it is 10% or more, then you must implement call pop. Another thing that you must consider is the first call resolution rate; if it is below 40%, it means you need a call pop-up. Conclusion – Call Pop Many customers these days are hesitant to call customer support due to long wait times, repeating their issues multiple times, and feeling like their needs aren’t understood. Implementing call pop can effectively improve the customer experience and build trust with your clients. By using call pop real-time customer cards, you’ll have immediate access to the caller’s information, allowing for faster, more tailored customer support. Before even picking up the phone, agents can quickly review the caller’s previous interactions with the company, including any past issues, orders, or requests. This more personalized approach improves the customer experience and saves your employees time. Read More: 23 Tips to Empower Call Center Teams in 2023 Read More: Future of VoIP Technology in 2022

VoIP Vs POTS Lines : How VoIP Is Different From POTS Lines

The telecommunication world used to be much simpler, but with technological advancements, phone systems have also become advanced. Today, businesses have numerous options for choosing their phone system. Within these options are VoIP and POTS. All businesses are looking for communication systems that can help them improve customer experience and increase revenue. Although both VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) and POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) come with their benefits and can be suitable for your business, it is important to understand their differences to choose one that matches your business requirements. To help you out, we will explain the differences between VoIP and POTS and what each can deliver at the enterprise level. But before getting into VoIP Vs POTS, let’s look at each service individually. Understanding Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) VoIP is a phone service that transmits voice data over an internet connection. In other words, this phone system virtually makes voice calls through the internet instead of using traditional phone lines. It means all your communication will take place over the internet. Typically a VoIP service is set up using a hosted Private Branch Exchange (PBX), but now cloud-based phone systems are also used to set up VoIP service. In addition, you can get this service with an on-premise PBX system, and this type of VoIP service is called SIP trunking. Since a VoIP phone system entirely depends on an internet connection, it is necessary to have an internet connection with high speed, bandwidth and low latency. According to the experts, small businesses must have a minimum of 5 Mbps upload and download speed to get a high-quality service. For large offices, it is recommended to get a custom design to ensure a high quality of service (QoS). In addition, one good thing about VoIP is that it employs CODECS allowing users to transmit different types of data other than voice transmission. It includes video calling and sending multimedia files or images. Benefits Of VoIP for Businesses Apart from providing cost benefits to businesses, VoIP has the upper hand compared to other phone systems due to the following benefits: 1. Increased Productivity With Unified Communication VoIP phone systems allow you to communicate with your team, clients or customers on call or messages without switching to any other application. It is a unified communication system perfect for streamlining your business communication. Furthermore, it can collaborate with business applications such as CRM and email. You can improve overall productivity by managing all your business operations on a single platform. For instance, when you integrate CRM with VoIP, you can see all the client’s data on your computer screen whenever a call comes in. 2. Convenience Of Remote Access VoIP offers flexibility and mobility similar to the mobile user experience. It does not bind users to their office desks to make or receive calls. You can install a VoIP app on your computer, laptop or any mobile device and use it anywhere with internet access. VoIP can be easily used over hard phones, softphones or video conferencing equipment. VoIP phones are not linked to a person using them and are not bound to a single location. Such features allow your employees to remain productive irrespective of their location, and they can enjoy the facility of remote work whenever they want. 3. Advanced Features Without Added Cost When using a traditional phone system, you must pay to add any feature whenever you want. In contrast, switching to VoIP phone service comes with pre-included features such as call transfer, DND abilities, call forwarding and auto attendant. You do not need to pay for features that come with standard packages; these features are usually enough and highly beneficial for startups and small businesses. 4. Easy Scalability Another significant benefit of VoIP is its immense scalability. The traditional analogue phone system tends to be more expensive when your business grows as you have to get a separate phone line for each employee. You must also spend money to purchase the physical equipment required to scale up your traditional phone line system. On the other hand, VoIP allows you to scale up your business without spending money on additional equipment. You can add more numbers and extensions when your business requirements grow. In addition, you can save money on maintenance costs and use it for other business operations. Understanding Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) We all know POTS as a landline telephone system in our homes while we are growing up. However, it is usually defined as an analogue voice transmission system that uses copper wires. These copper caves help in transmitting voice from one place to another. They facilitate communication worldwide with their complex network that has navigated to reach even some of the remotest locations. Since its emergence, there has been little modification to the POTS system, and even today, it works by creating a dedicated circuit between two points during transmission. POTS must have open circuits that must remain open so that the analogue signals can be sent directly to the device. These phone lines convert voice signals into electrical waves and again into voice signals at the receiver’s device. It may seem complex but the whole princess takes place simultaneously. Benefits Of POTS Line Traditional phone systems may not be able to compete with advanced communication technologies like VoIP. Still, it has certain advantages that make it difficult for users to switch to a modern communication system. Some of the advantages that POTS provide are as follows: 1. Well Established Technology The traditional phone system use has certainly undergone several changes since Alexander Graham Bell first introduced it. This technology has been in the market for a long time, so it is well-established. It is supported by a wee-spread network of cables worldwide connecting location that seems unapproachable. Analogue endpoints may not always be relevant, but for now, this technology is well understood and is seen as a preferred means of communication, even at the commercial level. 2. Ease Of Use Landline or POTS are among the easiest services to get installed. It is a 2-wire telephone service that is free of any complexity regarding installation and use. It is also because it lacks advanced features like VoIP or other internet-based communication technologies. 3. No Need For Power One of the important advantages of POTS over VoIP is that you can continue your business communication even if there is a power outage. The carrier provides the power required to run the landline connection instead of the end user. So even if your building loses power due to heavy rain or any other circumstances, your telephone line will continue working, and it’s particularly useful for 911 emergencies. 4. Special Uses Of POTS In this modern era, POTS is still used for specific uses, such as fax, elevator, and emergency phone services. Even today, some local codes may also need your business to have a landline for handling emergencies. VoIP Vs POTS From the above discussion, we can say that POTS is an analogue system while VoIP is its digital equivalent. Instead of having unique advantages, POTS is losing its market, and VoIP is taking over it. However, comparing these communication systems based on technology is not fair. VoIP is a communication system designed to facilitate integrations of business apps that always run on the internet. In contrast, POTS was built when the infrastructure and technologies were not advanced. So, here we will compare VoIP and POTS in terms of cost and find whether it is reliable for your business. When we make a cost comparison, VoIP is a clear winner because it works on a subscription model, while POTS charges depend on the number of users who want to make a call simultaneously. Making an international or long-distance call with a traditional phone line can cost a lot, but VoIP lets you make international calls at lower rates. Moreover, it requires more cost to set up as it needs more hardware to function. VoIP can help you in reducing this hardware setup and maintenance cost. VoIP allows the integration of different business applications like CRM, messaging and email, making it easier for employees to work remotely. It is a more reliable communication method than POTS and does not require any additional device for employees to get remote access. VoIP uses an existing internet connection that is a part of most businesses today. Only a few organizations can hope to function without an internet connection. Thus we can say that VoIP is a logical extension of this existing setup. VoIP Or POTS Which One Is Right For Your Business? VoIP and POTs both have their benefits and drawbacks. You must determine your business requirement and budget before making a final decision. Due to new technology, many users think that VoIP is a complex system and do not adopt it. POTS is easier to use, but VoIP provides numerous benefits that are enough to outweigh the convenience of the use of a traditional phone system. Moreover, advanced technologies like VoIP are taking over older systems because it is difficult for users to upgrade existing devices or spend money on the maintenance of huge hardware setups. Lastly, the cost is one of the significant reasons businesses are adopting VoIP instead of using traditional landlines. So, we can say that advanced technology is better in every aspect. Conclusion – VoIP Vs POTS Lines VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) and POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) are two types of phone systems that differ in transmitting voice calls. VoIP makes voice calls using the internet instead of traditional phone lines. It can transmit data other than voice, such as images and videos. VoIP is a cost-effective phone system that can be scaled up easily, provides advanced features, and can increase productivity by integrating with other business applications. On the other hand, POTS is an analogue voice transmission system that creates a dedicated circuit between two points during transmission. It uses copper wires to transmit voice signals, converts them into electrical waves, and then back into voice signals. We hope that you will find our VoIP Vs POTS comparison helpful and that it will help you choose the right telephone system for your business. Read More: What Is Q SIG? How Q Signaling Works In Telecommunication Read More: 4 Tips To Help You Monitor Company Production

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