The Benefits of SIP Trunking for Call Centres

If your business relies on your ability to make outbound phone calls reliably and cost-effectively then SIP Trunking offers a considerable number of benefits.

In the past most call centres relied on a Private Branch Exchange (PBX) to connect their calls to their destination via the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). In other words outbound calls would travel from the originator, through the public telephone system via an in-house exchange.

Of course such calls are not cheap; especially en masse. As most standard telephone calls made in this way are charged by the minute the costs of running a call centre can quickly mount up. In today’s business world, where costs need to be managed while maintaining standards of quality, SIP Trunking represents a tempting alternative.

Originally designed in 1996, SIP is a communication protocol which connects, monitors and disconnects VoIP calls. Traditionally the technology has been used to connect two VoIP users so they can talk for considerably less than a traditional land-line call. The only weakness with this system is that SIP required both parties to be connected to the Internet, with “Voice over IP” software installed.

SIP Trunking, however, removes this impracticality. In essence SIP Trunks serve as a direct connection between your company and the Internet Telephony Service Provider (ITSP). It allows your VoIP calls to travel primarily through the Internet, while still connecting with traditional telephones.

As a result there is no need for the recipient to possess VoIP software in order to receive your call. In other words they can be thought of as virtual telephone lines connecting you directly to the main telephone exchange.

So far, so good, but what are the business benefits of SIP Trunking?

Free Internal Calls

Like Skype, SIP systems permit free and unlimited calls within your call centre. This immediately cuts down on your operating costs. Even better, you can even enjoy free calls to offices in other locations if they are suitably equipped with the necessary technology.

Fixed Costs

While most traditional telephone calls are charged on a per-minute basis, with most SIP Trunking systems you’ll pay a fixed fee for the system each month. This helps to control your business overheads, increasing bottom line profits without reducing business output.

Integrated Systems

SIP systems may have become known for facilitating VoIP calls, but in truth such systems are capable of much more. For example, SIP Trunks can carry data, video and instant messages too. This not only means better integration between your systems, but also dispenses with the need to have a separate phone exchange and internet connection; with SIP you can do everything through one system.

Call Sharing

Traditional telephone calls are limited to just two callers connecting with one another. SIP systems, in contrast, allow an almost limitless number of connections. This makes conference calling easier and more cost-effective than ever before.

Reduced Geographical Limitations

Businesses are seldom restricted to one single site. Increasingly we’re on the road, visiting clients, making sales calls and more. But what happens if you call while you’re out of the office? Traditionally the call would go to voicemail, or the caller would have to redial your mobile number.

Not so with SIP Trunking, whereby calls can now be routed or transferred anywhere based a number of pre-established rules. For example, if you’re out of the office your calls can be automatically routed to another team member or sent straight to your mobile – all without the caller having to take a further action.

If you’re sold on the benefits of SIP Trunking, or would like to learn more about the costs and process involved then why not get in contact today? Luminet is pleased to offer infinitely-scalable VoIP solutions to business, schools and events in and around London.

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