As a hosted VoIP provider for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), Loop Communications wanted to share some insights if you are considering offering or reselling VoIP as a solution to your customers. There are three paths you can choose, each with advantages and disadvantages, and it really depends on your expertise and business strategy.

1. Partner with a solid VoIP Provider.

Seek one that specializes in VoIP solutions for your customers such as Loop Communications or some of the others in the industry (Ring Central, 8×8, Vonage, etc). One main advantage is that you have experts like us to manage VoIP for you. Loop is involved from the start of simple set-up to complex features and technical maintenance; we fully manage everything and are good at what we do. You also won’t need to become a phone company with the FCC or handle the taxes & fees that come with it. As an MSP, your staff can remain focused on your core competency and with us, get a recurring commission for every customer you bring on for the length of the customer relationship. The disadvantages are, you need to make sure you are using a reputable company with top-notch support and quality products as you will be recommending them to your customers, which is a direct reflection on you. Be aware of VoIP providers that require long-term contracts, unlike Loop who works hard to earn your business every day. Compare reviews and do your research.

2. Build your own solution

3CX has been a popular option for MSP’s and there are others such as Asterisk, FreeSWITCH, Bicom, etc. The advantages are that you can control the solution. The disadvantages are that you are on the hook for all support, and it can be a steep learning curve for your staff. Also, as a VoIP provider, you are responsible for registering with the FCC & collections, various telecom taxes & fees which vary by state, county, city, etc. in addition to complying with E911 regulations. What a hassle!

3. White-label a solution

This is a hybrid of the first two options, where a vendor’s solution is used but branded as your own. On the surface, this looks appealing and maybe easier, but we encourage you to be very careful with this. Now your brand and reputation are directly tied to a vendor’s performance which is out of your control. If something goes wrong, you are getting the multiple phone calls of the frantic employee wondering what happened to their phone connection. If the phones go down, you are the one stuck in the middle and now left with a bad impression on your service and business. In this scenario, you are still the one responsible for FCC, taxes, and fees mentioned above.

To dive deeper into your research for a great VoIP provider, we suggest browsing our blogs comparing us to other well-known VoIP providers. Read unbiased business software reviews to see how Loop Communications compares to other VoIP vendors!