Confusion over benefits of voice over IP
Research reveals doubts about reliability
Organisations are confused about the business benefits and reliability of voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), according to research published this week.
A survey of 150 network and IT managers across a range of sectors by ShoreTel reveals that cost reduction is the main driving force behind adoption of the technology.
Some 80 per cent of respondents agreed that IP telephony makes business easier but 36 per cent thought the systems were difficult to manage.
Another 39 per cent said perceived configuration problems were the main challenge to IP implementations.
‘The research indicates just how many businesses have had negative experiences with their IP systems,’ said Geoff Gudgion, ShoreTel’s managing director of Europe.
ShoreTel blames a short-term focus on a barrier for more widespread VoIP implementations.
But Margaret Hopkins telecoms analysis associate at Analysys, says there is a bigger picture for businesses thinking about VoIP.
‘The migration is happening, but it’s happening slowly. Communications managers say it’s just not a priority. They know it’s the future but it’s hard to make a case for ripping out an existing system,’ said Hopkins.
Hopkins says that with the long life spans of existing systems and the issue of mobile technology, that future is not fast approaching.
‘There’s quite a long way to go. No-one’s going to carry on with an old-fashioned network indefinitely, even the most die hard traditionalist is eventually going to be forced to change to VoIP,’ said Hopkins.
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