IP Telephony and Voice over IP (VoIP) are often misunderstood. VoIP is a technology that enables voice, or other analog transmissions such as a fax, to be converted into IP packets and transmitted across an IP network, be it an internal Local Area Network (LAN) within a building, a Wide Area Network (WAN) throughout a company's diverse locations, or across the public Internet.

As it relates to business, IP Telephony was touted as the end to usage based long distance charges in the mid 90s. As competition heated up in the telecom sector, we saw long distance rates fall sharply in the late 90s and early part of this century.

This may have affected the rush to engage VoIP services by reducing the cost advantages to implement systems. As long distance charges have leveled off a bit and IP Telephony applications and systems have become more affordable, it seems more companies are deploying VoIP to supplement or replace portions of their network.

BMG Communications is committed to analyzing and implementing proven leading-edge technologies for our clients when it makes sense for their business.

As it related to telephone systems, there are manufacturers that are marketing IP Telephony or VoIP telephone systems. In many cases, these systems are totally hinged on VoIP technology that doesn't always make sense for the client.

Of course, times and technology change, but at the present time, we have had success in implementing VoIP as an application, or a feature of a system, rather than the very basis of the system's existence.

In other words, many clients can benefit from the features and functionality of traditional systems, as well as newer features and applications provided by VoIP technology.

Therefore, we have aligned ourselves with key partners that stay ahead of the game and are current on the newest systems and applications. Upon consulting with our client, we are able to leverage our relationships in this sector and design a solution that will maximize our clients' investments into their new systems, while benefiting from traditional systems and services, as well as newer innovative technologies, such as VoIP.

For example, many of our Key/Hybrid Systems and larger PBX Systems offer VoIP integration to supplement their traditional connectivity. Additionally, we represent partners that offer LAN & Server Based Systems that offer increased integration with VoIP applications, while also integrating with traditional voice networks.

If you're interested in receiving an unbiased opinion about how IP Telephony and VoIP can affect your business and communications systems, we'll help you separate the HYPE from the REALITY. Contact us to schedule a consultation.

Still looking for more information regarding other types of telephone systems? Here are some quick links:

• Small & Medium Office (Key/Hybrid Systems)
• Large Office (PBX Systems)
• LAN & Server Based Telephony

Thank you for visiting our IP Telephony (VoIP) section. Be sure to learn more about us and our partners.

Contact BMG Communications today and step into a new dimension in service!