Member Article

4 key business benefits of unified communications

Communication is key to a successful, smooth running business model. To compete in today’s mobile workplace companies need an array of integrated communications tools. This technology was traditionally regarded a luxury afforded only to larger enterprises, as it was expensive to implement and maintain. Today, thanks to the rise of outsourced cloud-based alternatives, there are infinitely more affordable options, which are also more compatible with other commonly used business tools.

The adoption of cloud-based unified communications services gives businesses with a plethora of benefits - benefits which extend well beyond telephony systems to include greater collaboration, streamlined processes and increased productivity. For SMEs in particular, using a hosted solution is the ideal route to business advantage, offering enterprise level capabilities, without sacrificing the cost and agility of the cloud.

Although the advantages of adopting unified communications are vast and far reach, there are four key benefits adopting this technology will bring to your business**.**

1. Improved communication and security Strong communication and business success go hand in hand. This is something we have known to be true from the beginning. The only thing that’s changed is the method, having evolved from letters and memo-based business communications, to email and video conferencing. For a business to compete in today’s fast-paced, competitive environment, it needs a range of integrated communications solutions.

Integrated communications solutions streamline interactions between your employees, providing the infrastructure for web conferencing, enterprise instant messenger and multi-party voice and video calling. Furthermore, unified communications technology provides extra vital security for your firm’s communications. Take for instance, Skype for Business. This can be used anywhere, without the need for a VPN for encryption, meaning it is secure and straightforward for your workforce to use.

Yet, without a proper strategy your business may not acquire the right tools for the biggest impact, which risks wasting resources and hindering productivity. To ensure you choose the best solution, it is advisable to consult a trusted cloud provider who understands both the holistic benefits unified communications offer, as well as your firm’s individual needs.

2. Flexibility and mobility equals a happier workforce The necessity of a mobile workforce into today’s business climate is often the key driver behind the decision to adopt a unified communications strategy. As this technology is built around where the end user is based, it empowers businesses to implement a flexible working policy, whereby employees can work effectively from any broadband-accessible location, at any time and off any mobile device.

Cloud collaboration tools such as Office 365, enable teams to work together in real-time on documents online in an easier way than ever before. Technology that facilitates online video, audio or conference calls and mobile apps for VoIP, enables staff to participate in virtual meetings from any location, whether they are based on site or remotely – or even whilst on the move. In turn, businesses can reap the productivity benefits associated with having an agile, satisfied and more empowered workforce.

3. Productivity, Productivity, Productivity A great unified communications strategy needs to be focused towards boosting your business productivity. Businesses should concentrate on moving away from the idea of ‘efficiency among individuals’ to ‘business process efficiency.’ By reinventing models of teamwork and improving channels of communication, using an integrated solution will enhance your firm’s operational productivity.

With unified communications, for example, applications can be used concurrently, creating multichannel sessions so employees can collaborate more effectively, and in real-time. Bonus - this helps to reduce inefficiencies, duplicated effort and wasted time. Consider video conferencing tools. Video conference tools enable you to host meetings which eliminates the need for your employees, particularly those who are based remotely, to attend in person, thereby saving your business valuable time and cutting unnecessary spend on travel.

Is your current approach to managing communications is limiting your business productivity? Perhaps you need to consider turning to unified communications. To guarantee a successful strategy and ensure you have a robust network and collaboration infrastructure in place, speak to a channel partner. Channel partners are well-placed to address your concerns and provide your business with independent, tailored advice.

4. Money matters For many businesses, a primary motivation for choosing a hosted solution is the significant cost benefits it delivers. Not only does a cloud solution mean less investment in capital expenditure, it is also a key way to future-proof your business. By working with the right service provider, you can be confident that your communications tools will always be supported and evolve as your business needs dictate – enabling you to grow or shrink the service on demand, without overprovisioning or wasting money.

Making the change The decision to embracing unified communications is undoubtedly a strategic one, but it can’t be justified on numbers alone. Ultimately, its value is reflected in employee performance, enhanced productivity and better overall business outcomes.

In fact, adopting a unified communications strategy will soon be an essential requirement for SMEs to stay ahead of the curve. 2016 is already proving transformative, as cloud-based unified communications deployments are expected to rise by 466 per cent.

If you are an IT services company, it means that the biggest challenge will be educating small businesses about the range of benefits a unified communications approach can deliver. By adopting a true partnership approach and providing a wide portfolio of first-class services and support to their SME customers, partners can differentiate their offerings and stand out from the competition.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ash Patel .