SMB VoIP market to pass $1bn by 2009

Recent studies suggest that the small and medium business (SMB) VoIP market is set to grow by more than 500 per cent by 2009.

This increase will value the industry at more than $1 billion, creating a market for equipment that is compatible with the technology of the future, reports the Yankee Group.

One VoIP provider claims that scalable platform solutions will address the demand for computer and telephony integrations and support for existing equipment like phones and fax machines.

In addition, small businesses will be able to reduce costs associated with making personal calls to global customers, encouraging the tailored service provided by SMBs.

Quality of VoIP calls is improving rapidly and increasing numbers of businesses are considering the financial benefits of switching to VoIP.

Since most companies already pay for broadband, opting for VoIP involves a small initial outlay, with no follow up charges.

Sunil Bhalla, senior vice president of Polycom's Voice Communication Division, said: "Features like our high definition voice can help SMBs enhance their VoIP experience, while delivering unprecedented, lifelike voice quality to bridge distances."

Business users will also be able to have advance conferencing facilities and combined email and voicemail messaging to bring business into the future.