One of the key components to a successful business is communication. Businesses struggle with managing their customers, speaking to members of the community, and even communicating with one another. Non-profits have an even harder time trying to implement new technology as funds continue to diminish.

With the economy still struggling, non-profits have seen decreases in financial donations, volunteers, and investors. So what can they do on a tight budget? Well one option to look into is investing in a VoIP communication system. VoIP, otherwise known as Voice over IP, is a delivery of voice communications and multimedia sessions over the Internet.

By using VoIP, non-profits are able to save hundreds of dollars on their phone system, while integrating a ton of features that can be used to enhance business operations.

For starters, VoIP is one of the cheapest services on the market right now in terms of communication. It’s easy to setup and requires very little maintenance. After its been installed, companies can begin taking advantage of a slew of new tools such as free long-distance calling.

“Nearly all business VoIP providers offer free unlimited nationwide calling,” said VoIPReview.org. “Calling over the Internet instead of landlines circumvents pricy telephone wires and telephone poles, which is why VoIP calls don’t rake up long distance fees or interstate fees. Nonprofits need the freedom to call partners, donors, and clients without the fear of extra fees and charges on the monthly bill.”

Additionally, VoIP allows for unlimited international calling, IP faxing, and other technology geared at keep costs low by minimizing the use of resources such as fax paper, ink, and telephone equipment.

Many providers will also add in an auto attendant, three-way calling, visual voicemail, call recording, and other features at no cost. These tools can help a nonprofit from having to hire additional staff to answer and monitor calls.

VoIP technology can really help businesses, specifically nonprofits, compete on the same level as their competitors for less cost, allowing them to keep the focus on helping people and not on pinching pennies.