VoIP solutions do not require a 'big investment'

Smaller firms can access VoIP solutions without the need for a large up-front investment, it has been claimed.

Karl McDermott, sales director at IT firm Damovo, expressed his belief that companies can install the technology in stages to spread out the overall cost.

He told siliconrepublic.com: "People might keep their existing phone systems, and add a small gateway to enable them to access the benefits of VoIP.

"They can then put their voice calls across their data network and consolidate all their mobile calls through it, too."

Businesses which merge their fixed and mobile phone lines can often save a considerable amount of money on call charges.

Mr McDermott added that, following the recession, many firms which install the technology are looking for an immediate return on investment.

Small and medium sized enterprises which implement IP telephony solutions incrementally can often benefit from savings within months.