Coronavirus is a family of viruses that has actually been around for a while.

COVID-19 is a new strain, thus the term “novel”, which means new. The rapidly changing coronavirus pandemic is a source of uncertainty for all of us.Unitel’s commitment remains focused on the health and well-being of our customers as well as our employees. We have created guidelines for our employees visiting businesses to follow as this issue evolves.

As additional cases are confirmed across the U.S., we want you to know that we will continue to monitor news and public information sources including Centers for Disease Control (CDC); World Health Organization; and state and local health departments for the communities that we are so proud to serve.Many people look at the Coronavirus as a snowstorm that will soon pass and allow everything to get back to normal. More likely, the reality is the pandemic is more like the onset of a long winter.

The reason for the National Declaration and strong reaction such as travel bans, school closings and event closures are to flatten the curve of expected spike in cases. The best explanation is that if we cannot flatten the curve our health care system and workers will be overwhelmed by the spread. This would in turn possibly force them to make choices as to who should receive treatment.

For the most part, people can work from home or do computer-related work if they have available bandwidth. However, the traditional telephone system is more restrictive.

For our customers that have the Switchvox system in any platform (VMware, premise-based, or cloud) you have the ability to place up to five devices on a license or subscription -this means if you have a desk phone, you can also have a mobile app on your smartphone or a softphone on a laptop or similar device.

The mobility allows your staff to work from home if needed and still intercom, transfer, check voicemails, change status and operate as if they are in the office. Additionally, it sends their business number masking their cell or home phone number caller ID.

Here is a link to the softphone: https://www.sangoma.com/business-phone-systems/features/softphone/

Unlike competitive systems, you are not required to purchase a license for every device. Remember, one Switchvox subscription license supports up to five devices -saving money and resources.

Also, keep in mind that this may not be a short-term issue and it’s important you make plans for what could be a new normal.

If you have the award-winning Switchvox system from Sangoma and want to expand the capabilities or if you need this system please call 800-359-7833 or email customerservice@unitelinc.com TODAY.

If you do NOT have the Switchvox system and wish to learn more, we can set up a free online webinar with the manufacturer at a time of your convenience.