Businesses are making the switch to unified communications from Public Switched Telephone Networks (PSTNs) because the Internet has made communications more cost-effective, flexible, and efficient. But as the demand for access continues to grow, network operators are making the move to better support all communications through unified solutions. In fact, in the next year, Verizon will have discontinued all ISDN services, a platform used for data exchange, voice, and video.
Verizon’s move mirrors that of many telecommunications companies updating their technology to match the needs of enterprises across the globe. SIP trunking is replacing ISDN to support unified communications.
What is SIP trunking?
A SIP trunk is a virtual connection between an organization and an Internet Telephone Service Provider (ITSP). The connection is either through lines that link the trunk to other IP traffic or through the Internet with a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
The major benefit of SIP trunking in day-to-day business processes is that it eases the flow of communication between your representatives and your clients. There are additional benefits to SIP trunking:
- You can significantly reduce the cost of contacting clients across the globe. While phone service providers typically charge roughly six cents per minute, SIP trunking allows calls to Europe and Canada at only 1.9 cents per minute with no hidden charges and includes features like voicemail and caller ID.
- SIP trunks allow for an easier recovery of files in the event of a disaster. Developers are becoming more aware of the need for disaster recovery programs, which has informed the development process of SIP trunking. SIP trunks have a plug-and-play feature that allows them to run uninterrupted in the event of a power outage or other disruption.
- SIP trunking also provides higher quality voice solutions over its predecessors. The flow of voice communications takes precedence over data sets that are being transferred through trunking channels.
How can you ensure a seamless transition to SIP trunking?
There are three basic steps that will help you fully enjoy the benefits of SIP trunking:
- Choose a provider that is geographically close to your location, so that in the event of any need for troubleshooting they’ll be able to help you on-site.
- Talk to the provider about alternative options for inbound traffic routing. This will be a valuable conversation, particularly if traffic to your DID numbers is not easily routed through your trunks.
- Take time to complete full “proof of concept” testing. It’s important that you see how the product works, not just in a list of features or in a demo mode, but in response to the call flows that are typical for your organization.
Infinium Communications is the one source for all your telecom needs. Talk with us about changing unified communications technologies and how they can benefit your organization.