Key Components of a Cloud Phone Migration Plan

The prospect of switching to a cloud phone system is exciting for many businesses; they know that they will have better service at a significantly better price than their legacy phone system. But businesses are either overwhelmed by the ensuing process or underestimate the complexity involved.

Switching to a cloud-based phone system can become involved. In fact, 32% of businesses rated their migration experience as unsatisfactory. However, with proper planning and careful execution, it does not need to be a painful experience. Creating a migration plan will help you anticipate potential problems that may arise and determine every step ahead of time. With the proper help and plan, cloud migration can be seamless.

Here are key components to include in your cloud phone migration plan to successfully implement a cloud phone system.

Internal Role and Project Lead Assignments

Establishing a core team to assist with the migration will be key to ensuring a smooth transition. Each member of the team can help make sure that your business is successful in implementing a cloud-based system.

Even if your cloud technology is for a small business, it may be wise to have members dedicated to the migration. They can include:

• Executive.Someone from the upper management in your company can help remove any internal obstacles that may hold up progress in your migration.
• IT expert. Dedicate a specific person in your IT department to the actual migration process. If you don’t have staff dedicated to IT, your VoIP provider can support you through this process.
• Project manager. The process usually requires someone to handle the logistics of running a team: setting up meetings, overseeing project plans, handling documentation, etc
• Early adopters. Certain members of your team can try out the technology initially before a full roll-out. They are useful for help with testing, giving feedback and generating excitement amongst the rest of the company.

Project Plan

It is important to establish a specific and detailed plan when changing phone systems. You may want to consider implementing a phased plan for migration. By starting with a small, pilot group, you can work out any potential issues before diving in with the entire company.

The temptation with migration is to allow the project to drag on. Have exact deadlines and stick to them.

Technology Vendor Selection

Choosing a vendor does not need to be a shot in the dark. The right vendor will make the transition smooth and provide the continued support you need. You can start by narrowing down your selection with the following considerations:

• Look for a reputable company that has a history of reliability and high quality.
• Vendors that are future-focused, so your equipment won’t quickly become obsolete.
• Vendors that offer a simplified experience with streamlined and integrated desktop and mobile applications.

Once you have a narrowed list of vendors, request a demo and ask them questions about their offers. You may want to ask about their features or details on their security measures. Also look for a vendor that will both support you as you migrate and offer ongoing support.

Upgraded Internet Connectivity

Cloud-based phone systems will increase demands on your internet connectivity. Connectivity requirements vary, so it is essential that your company has the correct connectivity on the phone cloud is in place. Your VoIP vendor should lead you through the best bandwidth options for your unique business goals.

New Disaster Recovery Plan

Now that your phone system is changing, your company will need to adjust its recovery plan. Disasters and outages cannot always be prevented, so it is essential to have a plan in place to get services back up and running as quickly as possible. Planning for disaster will make sure that it costs you the least amount possible.

Since your phone system is connected to the cloud, investing in backup internet connections and SD-WAN technology will keep your phone systems working smoothly if something should happen to your internet connection. Also, it may work with your company to have a plan in place should your workers need to operate from another location or from home. Cloud technology is ideal for remote work.

Providers typically include back-up and disaster recovery in their plan. While deciding on a vendor, ask for a documented disaster recovery plan.

Create a Plan to Set Your Migration for Success

A Cloud migration for your phone systems does not need to be intimidating or overwhelming. With the right team and plan, you can make the switch to cloud-based a phone system seamless and exciting.

To find out more about making the switch to cloud technology, contact us today. We can provide help to navigate the new technology to meet your unique business needs.

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