Network Connections
If you want to make more monthly, add Unified Communications-as-a-Service (UCaaS) to your services offered.
MSPs, or managed service providers, are asked what their job entails, and that answer is usually managing anything that the customers’ networks is connected to. However, there are exceptions, especially in regards to VoIP (voice over internet protocol) and other certain technologies.
Wy is that? VoIP services are a multi-billion market, with it growing every year. Many IP phone lines have a managed services contract added to them as well when they are sold, so what gives.
There are many reasons why UC (unified communications,) keeps getting missed from providers who sell IT solutions. Here are a few reasons along with some common obstacles.
How Video and Voice Are Moving to the Cloud
IT used to keep away from solutions involving telephony and conference involving video. This was because it was a time and money sink. In addition, it involved training, technician work, demo units, and could end up costing tens and thousands of dollars.
However, there has been a big change in that regard, with many services going to the clouds. In 2015, one survey from Infonetics discovered that over half have a cloud service to run some UC applications. UCaaS can make everything less expensive by taking out on-premise pricing.
However, by selling UCaaS, you can still earn quite a bit of money all while taking up less of a burden. If you’re selling at the level of an agent, you may earn 15 percent in margins. Meanwhile, MSPs and VARs who are selling services with support and management may earn up to three times. These services include MACs (moves, adds, changes) and support.
Tips, Warnings, and Challenges of UCaaS
If you want to reduce the learning time and be more successful, investigate your cloud service provider of your UCaaS. Not every provider is equal, and some are not as stable as they should be. You want a company that is in it for the long haul and won’t merge or close. You also want to read the contract carefully and make sure you agree with it. Also, look out for companies that stop paying for commissions after a few years. As long as the user has their subscription, you should get a cut of the pie.
Selling UCaaS is less complex, but it still has challenges. For one thing, FCC regulations can be costly and complex, there are billing platforms to consider, taxes, and so on. One solution is for providers to invoice consumers directly.
Then, there’s the troubleshooting complexity. Figuring out why service is out can be many things, such as the equipment, premises end-point, ISP, or UC service provider. It takes up a lot of time, especially if you can’t see the areas that may be affected.
Before a UC and Internet provider’s partnership solidifies, addressing these concerns is important. Knowing what tools each supports to help figure out the problem is one solution you can make.
Finally, have training as one of your services. UCaaS can increase productivity, but not if workers don’t know what they’re doing. It’s important they be trained, and your company can offer training services to help with the integration.
