Goodbye handset

We’re long-standing users of VOIP phones to run our telephones at Lucid Towers. VOIP put simply is using a phone which uses your Internet connection, and therefore does not require a physical line.

Having been relatively early adopters of VOIP, until very recently, we did stick with using the system with a proper telephone handset on the desk. And don’t get me wrong, where people still want to use one, we will continue using them… but I can’t see us ever purchasing new ones in the future as we grow.

The reason is, I’ve been testing out using the phone system using just software and a headset connected via a USB cable to my computer (that could be my laptop, my home computer or my office computer), and that testing has gone really well.

The software works really well, with no issues to report, and I really like the Logitech USB headset I purchased. Not only does the headset deliver the phone call perfectly, but the speakers are also super when I’m listening to some Old School Trance classics between calls. 

Having recently gotten around to clearing and tidying my desk at the office, I didn’t bother putting my trusty Yealink phone handset back on the desk, I’ve stuck with relying on the software, my computer and the high-quality headset.

I feel like this VOIP Phase 2, although I have to admit, whilst we were early adopters of VOIP as a phone system, it has taken us a while to experiment with and embrace the softphone solution, but I’m glad we have.

If you’ve not yet made the transition over to VOIP, I urge you to explore this, as the flexibility, cost savings and powerful configuration are of benefit to all. Whilst you’re there, do ask yourself if you actually the handsets anymore… just doesn’t make sense to invest in the handsets, if you’re not going to use them.

Gavin Moorhouse is the owner of Lucid Computer Solutions, an IT Support and Cloud Services business which serves Worcestershire, Warwickshire and Birmingham. He likes to phone home, ET style (80’s reference).