THE PHONES
What was the seminar about?
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is revolutionizing the way we use telephone communications. BT are currently spending over £10bn replacing their old PSTN lines with a new IP service allowing End Users to combine applications on their phones with their PCs and saving them money.
VoIP is unquestioningly the future of Telephony. All we can ask is, are you ready for it?
- You may not have a choice! Some critics of IP Telephony still feel that there is a quality issue. In some cases this can be the case. But the problem does not lie in the new phone system, but at the point at which it connects with the old PSTN. As mentioned, BT are replacing their analogue system with an IP service so not only will this problem disappear but it will make it imperative that your business be ready for the cross-over. You wouldn't buy an analogue television set today, would you?
- Most importantly an IP Telephone System saves you money. On average an IP System can save a business between 20-30% of their usual telephony costs. Plus, if one of your users needs to move there is no need to call out a technician, roll out and install new wiring. Instead, the end User simply plugs into the Broadband connection - wherever they are in the world - and can be contacted on the same number. So the rolling costs and the maintenance save you money.
- An IP Telephony system works with your computer network to provide you with options and applications you would not otherwise have. This leads to greater efficiency of the resources. In a recent survey conducted by Sage Research it was discovered that the increased productivity enabled by IP Telephony added up to a staggering 3.9 hours per week per employee.
"Very welcoming; make me confident in recommending to my clients as very knowledgeable and ethical values"
- Joan Swain, JM Solutions Ltd.
How did the seminar go?
Arcom IT broke its guest attendance record again at the Spring IP Telephony Seminar with an impressive 84.5% turnout. But then with a venue like the Amberley Working Museum and the BT Connected Earth Gallery it came as no surprise. Greeted by hot drinks and biscuits, the guests were allowed to warm up and network before they were treated to a guided tour around the fascinating telephony exhibit by Fred and his team. Everything from telegrams to telephone switchboards could be handled in this fantastic interactive venue.
In the mood for telephones, a double-decker bus was then provided to deliver the guests back to the Hayloft where the seminar got properly underway. Led by Arcom IT Technical Director Steve Tritton and supported by Chris Key and Nick B rown of Hostcomm, a hosted telephony solution provider who partnered the event, the seminar lasted an hour. Covering all aspects of VoIP from basic introduction to some of the impressive features available at the click of a mouse, guests were able to see for themselves the benefits of an IP telephone system including no geographical limitations, easy administration and functionality.
The case study film was an insight into £40 million turnover luxury holiday provider Classic Collection Holidays. Stella Buckingham, Head of IT and Administration wowed the guests as she admitted that moving 90 staff from two locations to a larger third was done easily with a hybrid VoIP system and meant just a meagre 26 min downtime. For a company completely focused on telephone sales this represents very good news indeed.
Guests were invited to look at many of the examples of VoIP equipment brought to the seminar and were free to ask questions to any of the Arcom and Hostcomm team over a delicious lunch back at the Limeburners Restaurant.
"Friendly, professional, relaxed, informative and welcoming"
Sarah Head, Business Systems Manager, CPO Ltd.
See for yourself how guests enjoyed the seminar.

Arcom IT Managing Director Shahid Azeem gives everyone a warm welcome.

Guests enjoy a tour around the BT Connected Earth Exhibit and receive a free mouse!

A ride on the double-decker takes everyone to the venue.
How a hybrid VoIP system help a £40 million turnover company!
Stella Buckingham, Head of IT and Administration at Classic Collection Holidays tells us about their experiences with IP Telephony and Arcom IT.
- Peter Morgan, DPA Corporate Communications
- Perminder Deusi, WSI Internet Consulting
- Rob Tansley, Seimon Ltd
- David Bashford, Carpenter Box LLP.
- Mike Bone, Mike Bone Associates
- Michael Doe, Petroplan
- Joan Swain, JM Solutions
- Rosy Faraci, Molymet Services Ltd.
- Sarah Head, Business Systems Manager, Christian Publishing & Outreach Ltd.
