Communications technology is an essential business tool.Making the right investment will ensure the right returns.
Not long ago, around 15 per cent of an average business's communications flow was data traffic.Today the figure is far higher than that, surpassing the traditional voice communications, and it's still climbing. 
One of the main drivers of this increase is Voice over Internet Protocol which enables people to make voice calls over the internet using a broadband internet connection.VoIP basically converts voice into a digital signal that travels over the internet as data - in the same way that emails do. 
As is the case wiwth any new technology, there were uncertainties in the early days of VoIP.Problematic sound quality and unreliable connection were among the early concerns, but things are very different today.  
There are some people however, who remain concerned about the new technology for their business communications.There's no need for concern.  The fact is, VoIP can significantly lower the telecommunications costs of any size business without compromising quality or efficiency.  VOiP can also improve your organisation’s productivity, so you can save money while making money.
The technology is easy to use, manage and adapt to and the benefits are real.  If you’re contemplating making some changes to your business phone systems, consider these advantages of VOiP:
1. Ease of use and functionality
There’s no need to nervous about VOiP.The technology is now firmly bedded down, and is easy to use, reliable and functional.The system is surprisingly flexible, with some services working over a computer or special telephone, with others using traditional phones connected to a VoIP adaptor.  Some traditional business telephone systems like the Nortel range have been designed for progressive integration of VOiP.
2.Who can I phone ?
VOiP can be used to call anyone who has a telephone number, including local, long distance, international and mobile numbers.A regular analogue handset can be used to receive a VoIP call.
3.Cost-effective
VoIP can cut the cost of your telecommunications bill dramatically.Since the system uses a regular business telephone number, it's possible to cut the costs of mobile telecommunications.  Operating costs for VoIP service providers are much lower than for traditional phone companies and businesses don’t have to maintain different networks for phones and for data. 
4. Portability and 24 hour availability
VOiP enables freedom of movement and peace-of-mind.Get that important customer call and contact staff around the world, 24 hours a day if necessary.  Put the meaning back into customer service.  As long as you can access a broadband connection, you can make and receive calls on your laptop anywhere.   
5. Additional business applications
VOiP offers features that conventional phone systems can’t.Your phone can travel with you all over the world.Voicemail, conference calls, caller identity, auto-attendant, voicemail to email are all great additional features.
There are any number of different system options, from free software downloads from the internet to advanced integrated technologies.  One example is Nortel business phone systems which can support traditional PABX technology as well as VOiP.  These systems provide communication technologies that can make businesses more efficient, effective and responsive to customers.Now that's food for thought.