Cloud-Based Communication Tools: The Pros and Cons

The business communication industry has been changing rapidly. To keep up with the competition, business communication providers need to innovate. Once an integral part of any customer-facing business, old-school landlines have been replaced by more cost-effective, reliable VoIP services.

While many businesses have already found their transition to VoIP extremely beneficial, some question its value. CommPeak discusses the pros and cons of cloud-based VoIP communication tools to make things clear and mitigate these doubts. 

Get ready to make a decision! 

What is a Cloud-Based Communication System?

Essentially, it’s a system that enables you to place and receive phone calls using Internet Protocol. Your or your customers’ voices are treated like data, uploaded, and downloaded in real-time. 

The Cloud PBX is an advanced cloud-based calling tool that helps you better manage your communications, mainly if you deal with hundreds of calls every day. Because it functions on the cloud, all of your data is stored online. As long as you have internet access, you’ll always be available, maximizing your productivity and so much more. 

The Pros of Cloud-Based Communication Tools

1. Cost Savings

VoIP is significantly less expensive than landline-based calls. VoIP vendors like CommPeak also offer special rates all the time, ensuring you can cost-effectively reach your leads and customers. Moreover, there are no setup fees that SIP trunking providers require, making the Cloud PBX extremely affordable.

2. No Special Hardware Required

Switching to a cloud-based phone system doesn’t require a considerable upfront investment, meaning the business risk is relatively low. All you need is a stable internet connection and an IP phone or Softphone. With a Cloud PBX, you can continue your operations, keeping your customers happy.

3. Mobile, Remote, and Flexible Options

Cloud-based communications are an excellent choice for your business if you ever want to expand, downsize, or go remote. Because of the Cloud PBX’s mobility, being tied solely to the cloud and not physical equipment, any shift won’t cause downtime for your companies. Agents can stay connected no matter their location.

4. High Security

Traditional on-premise landline communication systems are quite physically vulnerable. On the other hand, Cloud-based phone systems have multiple layers of security and utilize strong data encryption. Additionally, all of your data will be saved and secured on the cloud. You can also take advantage CommPeak’s VPN Gateway for extra protection and anonymity. 

5. Easy Administration 

Managing your Cloud PBX communications is much easier than trying to do it all on your landline. You don’t need any technical background or special knowledge to master the system, and managers from all types of environments can learn this system quickly. Moreover, reliable VoIP providers like CommPeak offer live support 24/7/365, eliminating your need for in-house technicians.

6. Scalability  

With cloud-based communication tools, you can scale your business whenever you need. There’s no extra hardware or equipment required, and you aren’t bound to a fixed number of agents or desks. To expand and scale back, all you need to do is notify your VoIP Service provider and ask them to make the necessary updates. 

7. Integration 

Many cloud-based communication products can be integrated with your CRM platform of choice, making it extremely easy for your agents to dial numbers and update information. With CommPeak, you can integrate with a wide variety of CRMs that automatically sync your data, helping you improve your campaigns and optimize operations.

The Cons of Cloud-Based Communication Tools

1. Internet Dependency

Because of the Cloud PBX nature, you’ll always need an active internet connection to conduct business. This connection must always be stable and have enough bandwidth to support your VoIP communications unless you don’t mind suffering from poor call quality.

2. Migration Costs

Switching to cloud-based solutions can rack up operational costs for businesses that don’t have headsets or a separate internet line dedicated explicitly to VoIP communications. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that this equipment is pretty inexpensive, and, in the long run, you’ll earn it back, thanks to the reduced prices on calls.

3. Integration Issues

If you want to use a cloud-based phone system, you should first study your CRM integration possibilities. Some phone systems might not work with the CRM system of your choice, or its integration won’t be full, which might not suit your business. 

4. Staff Training

Although cloud-based phone systems are typically user-friend, it does require some time to become accustomed and situated. But with CommPeak’s user-friendly intuitive interfaces, employees will master the system in no time!

How to Migrate to the Cloud With CommPeak 

After learning all the pros and cons of cloud-based business communications, the only question you might be left with is, “How do I migrate to the cloud?” Well, the truth is, that’s up to you. You’ll have to investigate potential VoIP providers and ask them the following questions: 

• Are there any risks for your company moving to the cloud?
• How many staff members can use the phone system?
• What are the key features offered? 
• Are they the key features that are crucial for your business?
• Will you be able to expand your business easily?
• Which CRM platforms do they offer integration with?

If you still can’t find a reliable cloud-based business communication provider, you can always give CommPeak a try! Contact us today and enjoy superior services at competitive prices.