5 benefits of cloud-based communications

We live in an always-on world. Customers expect an immediate response, teams need access to reliable communication channels that enable them to stay connected in person and remotely. If your business is struggling to work effectively across a variety of channels, you're not alone. Bringing those channels closer together could be your solution to unifying your business. 

Here are five reasons to make the switch to cloud-based communications.

A cloud-based communications solution allows colleagues to communicate and collaborate in real-time, from wherever they are, as long as they have an internet connection. Send an email, switch to a call or text, or hold a video conference on the move - all from a single application. This allows in-office and remote employees to have a unified solution that makes communication simple for everyone.

Your business is bound to change, and with it your communications needs. So, even if you've started out with just the basic features, like call queue or voicemail to email, cloud-based communications make adding or removing services, phone lines or features simple.

The infrastructure and applications needed for cloud-based communications are typically hosted and maintained by a third party, which means the service provider helps keep the software up to date, maintains the hardware and fixes bugs. They're also required to adhere to security compliance standards for their data centre and infrastructure, so you can be sure your communications are protected.

When you move your communications to the cloud, you'll start to adopt sophisticated new capabilities that make your small operation look much bigger. For example, product solutions like Optus Loop let you set up unique dialling options for your auto-attendant (virtual receptionist) - such as 'Press 1 for sales, 2 for service or 3 for support' - and personalised messages for when you need to put your customers on hold.

The service provider hosts and maintains the cloud-based solution, so the costs for installation and maintenance can be less than a traditional phone system. However, it's important to keep in mind that there is still a service cost, which is different depending on the size of your business and the services you use. 

In today's hyper-connected world, a cloud-based communications system could allow your business to streamline collaboration and communication with team members and stakeholders in an efficient and cost-effective way.

*This article contains promotion for Optus products and services