VoIP features "very attractive" for small businesses

Small companies could gain from the features offered by voice over internet protocol (VoIP) systems but there is a "long way to go" in developing a wider understanding of its benefits, an industry expert has said.

Margaret Hopkins of international management consultant Analysys said VoIP offers businesses "a lot of benefits and cost savings" compared to buying a new phone system and many companies with new offices or homeworkers now adopt VoIP "without a second thought".

However, she added, some small businesses have held back from investing in VoIP because they do not understand how it can save them money or improve efficiency.

Ms Hopkins said that those trying to sell VoIP to small businesses should focus on its features, such as free phone calls or integration with email applications, rather than the technical details of the technology behind it.

"The features are very attractive - if you sell it on the features and don't worry about the technology, I think you've got a much better chance," she commented.

Anaysys is provides management consultancy, strategy and start-up support to the IT, media and telecommunications sectors. It has offices in London, Milan, Singapore, Paris and Washington DC.