VoIP Implementation Checklist
Voice over Internet Protocol is a configuration in which voice and data applications are used through the Internet. Many call centers have switched from landline phone PBX-based configurations to using the Internet for their voice and data business needs. VoIP is reported to be cheaper than the average PBX based system. For companies considering the switch to a voice based network, a VoIP implementation checklist can assist in determining the right type of system and VoIP configuration.
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Audit
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Before a VoIP system is implemented or upgraded, an organization usually conducts an information systems audit. Audit checklists pertaining to VoIP address items such as security, application management and transaction management. Audits also can assist management in setting strategies, objectives and goals addressing how a VoIP system will meet the needs of management, end-users and customers.
Needs Assessment
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A needs assessment is a part of a VoIP checklist that addresses service and equipment needs. For example, the type of Internet service protocol may depend on how many phones and computer terminals will be supported through VoIP. A needs assessment also considers bandwidth rate needs during peak activities, management and monitoring needs through VoIP-based utility software and bandwidth applied to video conferencing.
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Cost Analysis
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The cost analysis portion of the checklist provides a breakdown of questions concerning the allocation of fiscal resources to achieve an optimized VoIP network. After a needs assessment, cost analysis addresses the expenditures of upgrading a network, the cost of additional equipment (computers, phone systems and servers), maintenance of the VoIP network and employee training. Some items which affect cost analysis are call savings -- how much it costs to make and receive calls through the VoIP system -- expected savings in operational costs and return on investment.
Vendor Analysis
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The vendor analysis portion of the VoIP implementation checklist measures the effectiveness of an existing or new vendor providing VoIP services. Questions address the percentage of "uptime" while VoIP applications are being used on the system, vendor support of software and in some cases hardware, if the vendor supplies a client/server-based configuration for VoIP phones and computers, and past reviews of vendor service pertaining to customer support and help desk operations.
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