Talking on a Cloud 

Have you ever wondered how people can talk to friends and business associates around the world for long periods of time without paying long-distance? 

This is possible through the magic of the Internet and something called Skype, an application-based service that uses a proprietary Internet telephony (voice over IP, or VoIP) network. What separates Skype from VoIP is that Skype operates on a peer-to-peer "cloud" architecture, rather than the traditional server-client model.  

The Skype user directory is decentralized and distributed among the nodes within the network thereby reducing the need for a centralized infrastructure. Decentralization allows for network expansion and contraction while reducing the associated costs. It is presently estimated there are more than 240 million users worldwide. The application is currently available in 28 languages. 

Skype or similar communication software is destined to become as much part of our everyday lexicon as Windows, Coke, Big Mac or WiFi. Why is Skype gaining in popularity?  

What You Get 

Take a look at the following features and see how many would be right for your business.  

1.          Downloading the Skype application software and registering for an account is absolutely free.

2.          The software works on a wide variety of platforms. In addition to running on the big three operating systems: Windows, Mac OS, and Linux, it also runs on Windows Mobile devices, dedicated WiFi phones, some mobile and cordless phones, and other devices.

3.          Communication requires a broadband Internet connection, microphone or headset and a webcam if you wish to make video calls.

4.          The software permits easy, wizard-guided import of all your contacts on Outlook or Entourage into the Skype directory.

5.          Skype has a built in system for identifying all callers, blocking the unknowns and those you do not want to speak with, and has notification options to alert you to file receipt, messages left or contacts made. Skype acts somewhat like a receptionist, letting those who call know that you are offline, online, available for contact, away, not available, or do not wish to be disturbed.

6.          Send files of any size. There are no restrictions on the size of the document, digital photo or video. That large spread sheet or lengthy proposal you need for a meeting can be sent while you are talking.

7.          The ability to talk to your clients and suppliers "face to face" wherever they are in the world can not only help build better relationships but also will reduce travel expenses and environmental impact.

8.          Replace traditional expensive video conferencing services and hardware. Skype works with equipment you already have and can be made available to all your employees rather than just a privileged few. You will be able to have a video conference with your remote offices without even leaving your desk.

9.          Free conference calls with contacts and other offices whether the people are using landlines or cell phones. Urgent meetings can be called regardless of the location of your employees or offices and regardless of their communication devices.

10.        A modestly priced assigned access number enables you to make unlimited landline and cell phone calls to the US and Canada - any time of the day, any day of the week.

11.        A business version of Skype available for Windows allows IT departments to deploy the application easily to specific groups or across the organization.  

Controlling Costs 

Businesses wanting to use Skype as an internal communications network may find that establishing cost controls for long distance to countries outside the United States and Canada plus the cost of land-line or cellular telephones is an issue.  

Skype provides the free web-based Business Control Panel to manage use within your organization. The manager or administrator of the cost centre can prepay for the use of Skype, assign control numbers to each participant, and allocate credits from the prepaid amount to various participants. Reports of usage can then be used by administrators to determine cost by department or to control the expenditures. To ensure users do not run out of credits the system can be preset to assign more credits automatically to a user if they fall below a certain level.  

Skype May Not be for Everyone  

As your business extends the use of a proprietary system such as Skype there will be costs over and above the "free." However, for small businesses, consultants and other members of our business community who wish to stay in touch with employees, branches, clients and suppliers in a more personal and visible way, Skype may be a reasonably priced solution.