"Telecommunications costs now rank in the top 5 expenses for most companies" USA Today

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When we refer to Telecommunications, we include: Internet Access, Voice/Phone, Cable, Cell, Web Hosting, Email, Wireless and Data configuration & integration. That is a lot and usually it involves dealing with a number of providers. How do you know if you are not only getting the best deal but are you using it wisely?

#1. Your service providers will rarely inform you of new or deeper discounts/plans, they would rather have you pay the higher rate(s) that are already in place. Furthermore, they rarely are abreast of the changes of your internal/external usage. On average, analyzing and cross referencing this data often takes an expert, by design. "TeleComm Audits" usually result in a 10% savings, on average, and that savings can be annual for many years to come.

#2. How you use your equipment and/or integrate your systems with your voice & data providers is another challenge that most specialists have a hard time grasping, let alone business owners.  The ideal scenario is to look at ALL of your systems from the 5000' level, while at the same time comparing/analyzing how the systems/services are being used.

More importantly in these economic times, how "should" they be used and what services do your really need, is the key question.

Be patient, this process could take weeks/months and especially dealing with the various service providers can be the greatest challenge. The simplest way to start is to investigate what are the newer "Bundled" service packages that are available from your providers, based on current usage & knowledge. Then compare those to other possible providers. If you are persistent, you can get your service package changed.

Taking this to the next level probably requires an expert but the key again, is that there is no hidden "selling" agenda...just facts & recommendations to educate you. You can then do all the leg work or have them, either way; you will have more knowledge & control of one of your Top 5 operating costs and start saving money sooner.

It is worth the effort just to know that you are not wasting potentially thousands of dollars a year.