How to Plan for a VoIP Rollout

Voice Over Internet Protocol or VoIP for short, can provide benefits beyond just cost savings to mid to large companies. Implementing a VoIP rollout however can have its risks and challenges as it affects one of the most commonly used business communication applications: the telephone. I compiled a quick check list / tips of to bear in mind when planning for a voip rollout:

- Perform a network audit. Before contacting consultants and vendors plan ahead and do a network audit and assess any current needs. List any PC or endpoint that might be a weak link.
- Update your systems. Make sure that all your devices operating systems have been updated, that includes the PCs, mobile phones, Palm, laptops, etc..

- Update Security. Check to see if the LAN / WAN (PC and server) security are up to date.

- Start with a Pilot. It is advisable to rollout voip in phases.

- Update all VoIP potential gear. Make sure to upgrade network switches and other voip-capable gear even if immediate plans to not call for voip.

- Educate employees. Make sure your employees have been made aware of spamming and phishing techniques.

- Talk to other companies. Find friends that have implemented voip at their companies, and find out about their experience.

- Know what to expect. While cost reductions may be one of the benefits of implenting voip, other features and benefits might be just as important.

- Check Regulations. If applicable make sure to figure out into your planning the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability or Sarbanes-Oxley acts.

- Use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). Set up VPNs for remote locations or remote employee use. Make sure employees know to send data over secure networks.
If you need a national contractor that can manage multi-location voip rollouts, call Celergy Networks Toll Free: (877) CELERGY (235-3749) or visit our website at: http://www.celergy.com/