iTechSpeak :::...

Predictions for 2006 abound on the voice over internet protocol (VOIP) market. The 3 burning questions enquiring minds want answered are:

1. What is VOIP and how does it work?
2. What types of predictions have been made?
3. These predictions are important to me, Why? - WIIFM?


1. If you've never heard of VoIP, get ready to change the way you think about long-distance phone calls. VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol, is a method for taking analog audio signals, like the kind you hear when you talk on the phone, and turning them into digital data that can be transmitted over the Internet.

How is this useful? VoIP can turn a standard Internet connection into a way to place free phone calls. The practical upshot of this is that by using some of the free VoIP software that is available to make Internet phone calls, you are bypassing the phone company (and its charges) entirely. Read more . . .

3. What's in it for me?

Consumers
According to a Consumer Reports article, . . . "VOIP can be a great way to cut phone bills, increase talk time, and add useful new services. Consumer Reports urges consumers to keep a corded phone (requiring no power) and a landline plan for emergencies. Consumers who spend more than $60 for local and long-distance service may save money with VoIP".

With the dizzying options, like your recent switch from modem dial up to broadband (i.e. cable or dsl) or that famous "triple play", it is highly recommended you hire a technology professional for assistance with installing VOIP home/business telephone service. In considering the cost of hiring a VOIP consultant, remember price vs. cost. The price you pay for doing it yourself may appear as a savings. But what will it cost you [in time and money], if your VOIP installation is not done properly or certain computer hardware or software is not set properly? It may cost more to hire a consultant to resolve VOIP problems, afterwards.

which brings us to . . .

Technology Professionals
Quit whining about outsourcing and create a new income profit center with VOIP skills. Educate consumers on their VOIP telephone options. Help consumers implement VOIP service. Act as the VOIP QA manager to double check carrier VOIP home installations. The consulting market is wide open for helping businesses implement VOIP. Be creative. Learn who the players are and their VOIP product offerings. Register for a VOIP webinar. A quick Internet search will provide a plethora of Free VOIP training, white papers etc.

Investors
As you are probably already ahead [of consumers and IT professionals] in identifying opportunities in the VOIP arena, very little needs to be said. Maybe you want to read just one more report. VoIP: Spending and Trends, a new report from eMarketer, examines the rapidly developing IP telephony market and the impact its growth will have on businesses, consumers and the entire communications industry.
category 5_ category 7_