By now, you’ve heard all the good stuff about VOIP, how it saves your day by spending less on communication. Moreover, VOIP has evolved, embracing mobility and flexibility.

Nevertheless, a VOIP may only be a regular expense if you don’t know how to maximize it. You can make the service worthwhile with these ideas:

 1. Know your objectives.

 Before you even apply for a VOIP service, ask yourself, “Do I need to have one?” There are times when you don’t really have to—at least for now. You can also follow it up with “Why do I need a VOIP?”

The answer to your second question can serve as your guide in choosing your VOIP provider, as well as the features that come along with the package.

 2. Do your research well.

 There are so many VOIP providers in the world. Why should you go with the first option? Don’t hurry when it comes to picking. At least choose 3 to 5 providers, especially those within your area, then compare their bundles and rates. You’ll be surprised how much money you can save by simply doing comparison shopping first.

3. Constant Availability

 VOIP is still technology. It’s dependent on a lot of things, such as human knowledge and expertise and components like telephone and cable lines, existing Internet connection, as well as adaptors. It can conk out. But a VOIP that shuts down or crashes most of the time is completely useless. Find a VOIP provider that can guarantee at least 97 to 99 percent uptime.

4. Check the quality of audio and video.

 Yes, there are plenty of cheap—and even free—VOIP apps and packages. But that doesn’t mean they’re already worth it. One of the things that truly matter in voice over Internet protocol is the quality of not only the audio but also the video. If your call gets canceled suddenly, or the video appears grainy, or worse nobody can hear or see you, then VOIP is a futile technology for you.

5. Integrate VOIP.

 There’s a huge likelihood that your home already has an existing cable or telephone line, as well as a facsimile machine. You may also own one of the smart phones or tablet PCs. Why don’t you just integrate VOIP in your existing technologies? It saves you time and money, and you can fully utilize your devices.