Why You Need to Try SIP

Posted on 21/11/2011 by Mark

Here at Silver Lining HQ we find ourselves being asked about SIP services, and their potential as a true ISDN replacement service, increasingly more often. At the recent IPExpo, the stands were buzzing with the refreshed belief that SIP technology will play a huge part in the future of business communications. However, whilst there is a strong interest in a move towards SIP based services, there still seems to be some resistance and uncertainty from UK businesses which is preventing mass adoption. This blog aims to look at why SIP is considered the future and how you can benefit from it today. Before we begin, let us be clear that SIP is not merely a popular protocol in VoIP environments, it is the VoIP protocol.

The Future
SIP plays a central role in the IP multimedia subsystem (IMS). This is a family of protocols which is set to define the architecture of the next generation of mobile networks. This new environment will provide a vast array of text, voice, video and data services for the business and consumer market.

Numbers, Anywhere
SIP removes historic, geographic boundaries. Do you want a New York telephone number but your office is in Hull? No problem! Do you need a London number for your Newcastle based call centre? Then SIP is your answer! The SIP “number, anywhere” service uses the same process as traditional non geographic numbers. It also means you can take your business number with you, no matter where you may relocate to in the UK.

Instant Divert
Another powerful SIP feature is the ability to instantly divert your number to another location. This makes SIP a vital part of your business continuity and disaster recovery strategy. Whilst BT offer a divert solution, unlike its SIP alternative, you can only divert the main number. The DDI number will also point to this new location. In the SIP world you can divert every DDI to a different destination.

Cost
I would never suggest that a move to SIP should purely be based on cost. However, there are clear savings in both line rentals and call costs when looking at a SIP solution. It is also worth noting the long contracts, high line rental charges and inflexibility of ISDN are all eliminated when you move to a SIP service.

Flexibility
SIP is infinitely more flexible than its ISDN counterpart. If you wish to increase your ISDN lines you are subject to significant lead times, installation charges and long term commitments. If you wish to increase (or decrease) your SIP lines you are able to do it within minutes, without the cost or commitment. This means a SIP solution is ideal for businesses that operate in a seasonally fluctuating market.

I could go on and on about SIP and how it will radically alter your business but the only way to prove it to you, is for you to see for yourself. Silver Lining is currently offering a free SIP trial, so call us today to get your trial underway!

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