Effective communication is essential for any successful business. This is especially true for small and mid-size businesses (SMBs) in today’s fast-paced, digital world. Communication tools play a critical role in connecting remote teams, engaging with clients, or streamlining internal operations. However, juggling multiple platforms for video calls, texting, email, and collaboration can create chaos and inefficiency.
That’s where Unified Communications (UC) solutions, like those offered by Watchkeep through our partnership with Intermedia, come in. By integrating essential communication tools into one seamless platform, UC enhances team collaboration, increases productivity, and elevates customer experiences.
Understanding Unified Communications
Unified Communications integrates real-time tools like voice, video, messaging, and file sharing with non-real-time tools such as email and SMS. This creates a unified, intuitive experience across devices. For small and medium-sized businesses, unified communications (UC) is not just a tech solution. It is a strategy to drive growth and create a connected, productive workforce.
Real-Life Example:
A marketing agency with team members in three cities struggled to coordinate projects across email, chat, and phone calls. After using a UC solution, team members could quickly move from brainstorming on video calls to sharing files. This change helped reduce project delays by 30%.
Criteria for Choosing Communication Tools for Small and Mid-Size Businesses
Choosing the right communication tools is essential for SMBs aiming to streamline operations, boost collaboration, and drive productivity. While the promise of Unified Communications (UC) solutions is enticing, selecting the best fit requires a strategic approach.
1. Ease of Use and Implementation
Small businesses often have diverse teams with varying technical expertise. A communication tool with an easy-to-use interface requires shorter learning times. This means everyone, no matter their tech skills, can quickly use it and enjoy the benefits.
Example:
A local nonprofit implemented Intermedia Unite because of its user-friendly dashboard. In just a few days, their staff and volunteers with little tech experience used the platform confidently. They made calls, sent messages, and shared files easily.
2. Scalability and Flexibility
Every small business has growth aspirations, and communication tools must grow alongside them. Scalable solutions accommodate increasing workloads and new team members without the need for constant platform changes.
Example:
A boutique design agency started with a small team of five but quickly expanded to 20 employees. With Intermedia’s flexible licensing, they added new users seamlessly, maintaining uninterrupted communication and collaboration.
3. Integration with Existing Systems
SMBs often rely on a variety of software, such as CRM, project management, and task-tracking tools. Communication platforms that integrate smoothly with these systems save time and prevent data silos.
Example:
A retail company integrated Intermedia Contact Center with their CRM. This allowed customer service reps to access caller information instantly, reducing resolution times by 25%.
4. Cost-Effectiveness
Small businesses must balance tight budgets with their need for advanced tools. The ideal solution provides robust features without unnecessary costs or hidden fees.
Example:
A real estate agency saved 30% each year by using Intermedia Unite. This service combines voice, messaging, and video calls into one affordable solution.
5. Security and Compliance Features
Security is non-negotiable for SMBs handling sensitive data. From encrypted communications to compliance with industry standards, businesses must protect their data.
Example:
A healthcare provider selected Intermedia for its HIPAA-compliant communication tools, ensuring patient data remained secure during telehealth consultations.
Top Communication Tools for SMBs Powered by Intermedia
1. Intermedia Unite
What It Does:
Intermedia Unite combines a cloud-based phone system with video conferencing, messaging, file sharing, collaboration tools and more into one platform.
Key Features:
- Auto Attendant: Directs calls to the right person instantly, enhancing customer service.
- Team Presence Indicators: Quickly check if a colleague is available, in a meeting, or away.
- File Collaboration: Share and edit files in real time.
- Mobile & Desktop Apps: Stay connected anywhere.
Example:
A local IT consulting firm uses Intermedia Unite to field customer support calls through the auto attendant feature. While agents work remotely, presence indicators help route incoming calls to available staff. This reduces wait times and improves customer satisfaction.
2. Intermedia AnyMeeting
What It Does:
This powerful video conferencing tool makes virtual meetings more effective and engaging.
Key Features:
- Browser-based—no downloads required.
- High-definition video and screen sharing.
- Annotation tools for interactive collaboration.
Example:
A financial services firm implemented AnyMeeting for quarterly client reviews. With its screen-sharing and annotation tools, clients could easily see financial projections. This led to a 20% increase in client retention.
3. Business Texting
What It Does:
Enable fast, professional communication through SMS without relying on personal devices.
Key Features:
- Send and receive texts via your business number.
- Integrate with other communication tools for seamless workflows.
Example:
A small property management company uses business texting to coordinate urgent maintenance requests. Tenants appreciate the speed of texting, while staff benefit from a centralized record of all interactions.
4. Intermedia Contact Center
What It Does:
Streamline customer service with advanced call routing, analytics, and management tools.
Key Features:
- Omnichannel support: Phone, chat, email, and social media.
- Real-time reporting and analytics.
- Workforce optimization tools.
Example:
A boutique e-commerce store uses Intermedia Contact Center to manage holiday rushes. The system's real-time analytics help allocate resources on the fly, reducing customer wait times by 40%.
Why Choose Watchkeep and Intermedia for Your Communication Needs
When it comes to implementing communication tools, SMBs need more than technology—they need a trusted partner. At Watchkeep, we specialize in tailoring Intermedia’s Unified Communications solutions to meet the unique needs of small businesses.
What We Offer
- Expertise in seamless setup and integration.
- Ongoing support to keep your systems running smoothly.
- Scalable solutions that grow with your business.
The Bottom Line
In today’s competitive landscape, SMBs need communication tools that empower teams, delight customers, and simplify operations. With Watchkeep and Intermedia, you get a robust Unified Communications solution designed to meet these needs—and more.
Ready to transform your communication strategy? Contact Watchkeep today for a free consultation or demo of Intermedia’s Unified Communications tools.
