The necessity to make the transition from traditional telephony systems to VoIP may be more often talked about in a corporate context, but it definitely doesn't skip the educational sector.
Schools and academic institutions can benefit significantly from moving to VoIP-based telephony no less than private businesses or other types of public organizations.
What is VoIP?
VoIP (initials for Voice over Internet Protocol) is a group of technologies that deliver calls over IP networks. By converting voice into a digital signal, it enables the use of IP phones and other data-driven devices.
Why Do Educational Institutions Need VoIP?
"Traditional phone lines are expensive and difficult to manage, and they also lack the functionality and features provided by VoIP, allowing to improve and simplify communications," notes Jodie Penk, Marketing Executive at Fuse 2.
"Plus, the ISDN switch-off isn't too far away, meaning that everyone will have to be moving to IP phone services soon. It's best to plan ahead and make sure you have a smooth experience doing it."
Another significant reason to make the transition sooner rather than later is cost. With VoIP, calls are made over the internet, which reduces costs significantly. With educational institutions of all kinds having to deal with tight budgets regularly, this is a key factor.
"These institutions can't afford to waste funds on inefficient phone systems," Penk says. "They need a reliable phone system, which would be both affordable and make communication accessible for teachers, students, and parents."
Last but not least is the flexibility factor.
"Schools are a busy environment where phone calls are often missed. A VoIP phone system, connecting to both desk phones and mobiles, can be a huge help with this issue," Penk explains.
To take this one step further, teachers or departments can even be added to ring groups, so that if the receptionist missed a call, it will be automatically transferred to the next relevant function.
