By Ambarish Gupta, CEO and Founder of Knowlarity

Communication is often the lifeline of a small or medium-sized business (SME) as it keeps the company connected with its employees, partners and suppliers and ensures that all stakeholders are on the same page. The use of modern cloud technology can take business communication to a whole new level at a cheaper cost while maintaining a high standard.

This is according to Ambarish Gupta, CEO and Founder of Knowlarity, who says by simply using audio conferencing in the cloud; businesses can conveniently get in touch with multiple people, at the same time, without implementing any extra hardware or infrastructure.

“It is generally extremely easy to activate and this service can prove to be very cost-effective, especially when one opts for a service. In most cases the user won’t even need an Internet connection, they can simply invite participants to join in on the call, dial in, key in their PIN, and get started with the meeting.”

Gupta provides some of the benefits that audio conferencing offers South African SMEs:

Collaborate cost-effectively

The user is normally able to connect up to ten people on a conference call which allows for communicating messages clearly to all participants in one go. This will enable the team to have a discussion, get feedback, discuss and collaborate on important business decisions, quickly and effectively, without any unnecessary delays.

Polish the business image

With zero investment, a business owner can give the company a professional boost, by using audio conferencing. This allows the business owner and his/her employees to connect with business partners, suppliers, vendors, and employees, quickly and efficiently and get things done faster. By using a reputable provider that can provide crystal clear sound quality and smooth operational efficiency will impress clients and suppliers. It’s an excellent way to raise the image of the business in the eyes of associates.

Be available anytime, anywhere

Audio conferencing allows the user to communicate and collaborate even when they are on the move, or travelling to another city or country. This enables the business owner to keep business running smoothly, and capable of sorting out important issues, no matter where they are in the world.

Never late for a meeting

Should one of the meeting participants be late for the meeting due to traffic or other issues, they are able to simply dial in for the meeting right on time, no matter where they are. In addition, participants are able to dial in from their homes if they cannot make it to the office at a particular time. This is especially useful if meeting participants work in different time zones.

Increased productivity

When one can communicate quickly and clearly with multiple stakeholders, they are better equipped to accomplish much more, in less time. This type of technology assists to avoid miscommunication and misunderstandings, as all stakeholders can attend the same meeting, even if they are not physically present in the same place. Productivity levels are increased when communication is clear and all stakeholders are on the same page.

Lower costs

Expenses are lowered in several ways by using audio conferencing. Firstly, one can source reliable conferencing services. Secondly, there is no need to organize a venue with a meeting room large enough to fit all participants. Thirdly, no additional infrastructure is required as all participants can dial in using their mobile phones. Lastly, all stakeholders can save on travel costs.

Given all the benefits of cloud conferencing, Gupta advises business decision makers to find a service provider that suits their business needs in order to implement this technology into their business.