Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP)

The VoIP market

The good news is that Ofcom, the UK communications industries regulator, is pushing suppliers to introduce low-cost voice over broadband services in the UK. These services could be of interest to small and medium-sized companies.

As it's a competitive market, expect to see a raft of new products and services over the next few years, from traditional telephone service suppliers such as BT and Cable and Wireless, and from Internet Service Providers (ISPs) who are evolving into Internet Telephony Service Providers (ITSPs). Network suppliers such as Avaya, Cisco and Nortel also offer VoIP products and services. Managed services - where you outsource your phone and data network - are likely to be popular options for those who don't have in-house expertise.

To keep up to speed on industry developments, you could keep an eye on Ofcom's website, www.ofcom.org.uk. For news on products and services, you could visit the website of suppliers' organization, the Internet Telephony Service Providers Association.