The Final Card...

Often times I am asked for my cell phone number when traveling or if someone learns, I will not be in the office. They are quite surprised when I tell them I don't know the number.

"How can anyone in today's world not function without a call phone?" they ask.

This question has a multitude of assumptions built into it. One how can I possibly know anything about telecom if I don't use a cell phone? (This is somewhat reminiscent of John McCain and his non-use of the Internet). The other is probably along the lines of: "Did he really say that? Is he really that lame?"

The final card is explaining to a business owner how moving to SIP will not only offer savings but is the foundation to supporting more productive use of his communications systems and business applications. SIP allows carriers to offer user identified services, dynamic load balancing of traffic across multiple locations (great for call centers) and business continuity in case of system failures or a disaster. Moreover, it supports the various technologies underlying the concept of unified communications.

The simplest application, which is "find me /follow me", can be very useful for any employee of a business that is driving around town making calls, supporting customers or just attending appointments outside the office. It is a huge improvement on having to remember to forward and unforward calls, change voice mail messages to indicate the times/days you are in the office or away from your desk. It also makes it possible to stop having to dial in for messages. They are sent directly to your email address, which can be accessed from your PC or, in my case, a BlackBerry.

Uh oh...did I just confirm I use a cell phone?

I never said I didn't use the device, I simply indicated I don't know the number. I take advantage of either the follow me feature to have all calls initially routed to my desk (business, home, and personal cell phone) and if no answer, ring my Broadvox BlackBerry. Sometimes I'll even use simultaneous ringing. The point is I am now only giving out one phone number. I am practicing what I preach.

Consequently, you should sell SIP Trunking based upon cost savings, native features and finally with the improved productivity offered through unified communications and presence. With SIP, an IP PBX owner will get the most out their new IP or legacy investments.

Well, the weekend is here, I have to decide what to prepare. See you on Monday.