The Different Features of VoIP
Within recent years, voice over Internet protocol, or VOIP, has become increasingly popular. Companies devoted to VOIP such as Skype and Vonage allow users to place phone calls from computers to landlines through the Internet. Using the Internet to make local and long-distance phone calls can save you money on your monthly phone bill. VOIP is attractive to many because of its vast number of features. Any computer or business with an Internet connection can use VOIP.
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Video Conferencing
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Many businesses and individuals find the social features offered by VOIP providers enticing. Since VOIP uses the Internet as a means for connection, various other mediums of communication, such as video conferencing, are often combined. Video conferencing allows users from different locations to be present as though they are all sitting together in the same room. Users can specify who is able to connect to the specific conference and even share graphics, slide shows and business models. Some companies use VOIP video conferences as a way to interact with their customers.
Find Me, Follow Me
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Another popular social feature is what VOIP providers call "Find Me, Follow Me." This feature allows employees to travel and still receive phone calls as if they are sitting at their desk. This works because the VOIP application forwards calls to the closest available phone of the employee that is trying to be reached. The program searches for hints as to where the employee is located by searching through terminal log-in histories and work schedules. This adds much needed flexibility to the workplace.
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Auto Attendant
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Some VOIP providers offer a feature called "Auto Attendant." This feature helps to organize large amounts of information, such as directories containing the information of employees, departments and extension numbers. "Auto Attendant" also gives the user the ability to specify if they would like a prerecorded message or music to play to customers waiting on hold. Phone calls can also be routed to other departments or phones depending on the destination of the call.
Convergence
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Many VOIP providers offer a feature called "Convergence." This feature allows various forms off communication to work together to notify an individual that they have a call waiting. For example, if you have stepped out of your office and walked into the mail room, the system will notify you through a Web-enabled device somewhere in the mail room. This feature is compatible with almost all Web-enabled devices making it an attractive solution for businesses or the home.
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