7 Reasons SMBs Should Use Cloud-Based Communication Systems
Coordinating team collaboration and communications used to be quite a headache for SMBs. Besides the high cost of setting up the infrastructure, the complexity of ongoing maintenance can put quite a burden on a business’s overhead.
But this is no longer the case.
With the advancement in cloud technologies, it’s now possible for SMBs to effectively improve team communications and collaboration with an affordable budget.
Here’s why SMBs should use cloud-based communications:
1. Mobility and Flexibility
A cloud-based communication system allows your team to work with any device and from anywhere with an Internet connection, making it possible for employees to collaborate remotely (e.g., work from home or on the road) without missing a beat.
Most providers also offer mobile apps so employees can access all the platform’s features in real-time from anywhere, helping businesses improve productivity and efficiency.
2. Scalability
You can scale up or down quickly with a subscription-based cloud service — not only with the number of users but also available functionalities — to respond to the needs of your business.
You can pay for as many or as few licenses as you need on a monthly basis while not having to worry about outgrowing hardware or purchasing capabilities that may become obsolete before you can fully utilize them.
3. Downtime Prevention
Downtime can be very costly for SMBs in today’s fast-paced business environment. Reputable cloud providers offer a level of quality and reliability in their services that most SMBs can’t achieve on their own.
Cloud providers have the resources and expertise to ensure continuity of service by implementing measures such as a comprehensive backup and recovery plan, as well as redundant infrastructure to ensure continuous connectivity in all environments.
4. User Experience
Cloud-communication providers are continuously improving their products and services to ensure that they’re up-to-the-minute and meeting customer expectations.
A user-friendly system helps increase employees’ productivities while improving customer interactions to help you deliver an outstanding experience that will boost customer acquisition and retention.
5. Security
Reputable cloud providers use IT security protocols (e.g., data encryption, network security) and implement security measures to their physical facilities to ensure the safety of your data.
Many of these providers are also compliant with a variety of privacy standards, such as HIPAA, to service customers in highly-regulated industries such as healthcare and finance.
6. Cost
Compared to traditional on-premise solutions or standard telephone lines, cloud communication is more affordable for SMB. You don’t have to invest a large sum upfront to set up the infrastructure while many pay-as-you-go plans allow you to pay for only what you need or have used.
Not to mention, most cloud communication systems offer cheap international calling and free in-network calling, which can further lower the cost.
7. One-Stop-Shop Solution
Most cloud-communication providers offer more than phone systems. For example, you can get chat/IM, video conferencing, and file sharing to enhance team collaboration.
By consolidating all communications and collaboration tools in one centralized location, you can improve the efficiency and productivity of your team.
Are you interested in learning more?