Choosing your VOIP Provider can be a marriage made in Heaven or Hell, and could be one that lasts for many years, but how do you decide between the myryad Providers available to you? Here’s a few tips for screening your potential suitors, and making the right choice…
Consider Price vs. Service
Anyone considering a long-term arrangement with a Service Provider will consider the price first, but don’t let the lowest charges be your only goal. Many VOIP Providers do away with some important services in sacrifice for their low price packages. It’s important to assess your needs and match them to the package you’ll be receiving. For example, some Providers don’t allow calls outside their network as part of their budget offering. In this case, consider how many of your regular contacts use the same service, and therefore the benefit of accepting such a deal.
Demand Features
VOIP offers many associated features, but not all Providers have picked up on them or bundled them into their basic packages. Make sure you get basic options included, such as Voicemail and the ability to make emergency calls. Consider the cost of features not included as standard, and see if the additional payout would be recouped in value to you or your business through improved availability.
Good After-Sales & Support
It goes without saying that the path to problem-free VOIP calling can be a long and arduous one, so be sure that Technical Support is available at a time that will likely suit you. Look for 24/7 support and a quick turnaround of problems. Many Providers will publish this information in an effort to attract business, but it’s best to search a few forums and review sites for other people’s personal experiences. Make use of all the information to hand before making your final decision.
Number Transfer
For existing users, it may prove a great bonus to be able to take your VOIP number with you, but even if you’re new to Internet calling, it may pay to consider this. Imagine the event that you need to swap Provider in a few months time, for reasons of bad service or just another Provider turning up the heat with unbeatable offers and service. A portable number will allow you to seamlessly swap services without losing contact with your important clients and friends. Not all Providers allow number transfer, so be sure to ask about this facility before signing up.
Look for a Money Back Guarantee
All Providers should be duty bound to offer a cooling off period for new customers, allowing you to exit the contract within the first 14 days without consequence. If a Provider specifically states otherwise, it may be best to steer clear. A money back guarantee is usually a stamp of quality; after all, why would they offer a guarantee if they weren’t supremely confident in their ability to satisfy your VOIP needs?
In conclusion, be sure to match your needs to the Provider that seems to match up to them, and protect your long-term interests. Good luck!
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