VOIP services target both individual users and business entities. Though these two groups may have different needs and preferences, VOIP can be a solution to their telecommunication needs. As more and more people are seeing VOIP as a feasible alternative to traditional telephone lines, the industry continues to grow and prosper despite the plunging economic situations in different countries all over the world.
Take, for example, the action that is being taken by the Federation of Small Businesses in the UK. The FSB is considered to be Britain’s largest business organization. Here’s a bit of background information on the FSB and the depth of its operations:
The FSB is the largest campaigning pressure group promoting and protecting the interests of the self-employed and owners of small firms. Formed in 1974, it now has over 210,000 members across 33 regions and 230 branches. On the member benefits side, it offers assistance and support 24 hours a day, while its lobbying arm – led by the Westminster Press and Parliamentary office – applies pressure on MPs, Government and Whitehall, lobbies politicians in their constituencies and puts the FSB viewpoint over to the media.
One of the major benefits is the FSB’s legal helpline which operates 24 hours a day. Last year, the helpline received over 100,000 calls, the majority of calls on employment matters but also dealing with issues such as commercial contract, landlord and tenant and consumer affairs.
Recently, the FSB released an announcement that they are providing free VOIP services to their members. Here is the press release:
The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is making free access to VoIP services available to its 210,000 members.
The FSB has teamed up with VoIP provider Coms PLC to offer members a free high-quality telephony service.
Members will be given a unique telephone number that will be added to the FSB contacts directory.
Sandy Harris, the Federation’s director of member services, said: “FSB VoIP will be a valuable addition to the business networking opportunities available to our members through our online directory.”
Terry Martin, chief executive of Coms PLC, added: “This is further evidence that hosted VoIP has come of age.”
Members can declare their interest in the service by visiting the members section of the FSB website.
They will also be able to upgrade to a full VoIP account, which will give them a free additional line. The only costs incurred will be for calls made outside the FSB members’ directory.