Uses and benefits of real-time communications

Systems for real-time communications have been around for over 100 years. What started as basic two-way communication through landline phones or walkie-talkies has emerged into a complex system that supports both audio and video real-time communication. These advances in technology provide value and enhance internal and external business processes. But what is real-time communication, and why is it so important for today’s businesses?

What is real-time communication?

Real-time communication, also referred to as live communication, is any type of telecommunication platform or service that allows for information to pass simultaneously from the sender to the receiver and vice versa. Unlike some other communication options, such as emails and blogs, the data being transferred is never stored in a temporary location during transmission. Instead, the data is instantly sent from the sender to the receiver, which eliminates any type of delay in the communication process.

Real-time communication can run on a half-duplex or full-duplex mode. In half-duplex mode, communication is transmitted over one channel and in one direction at a time. Full-duplex mode, on the other hand, allows users to send and receive data at the same time.

Today, there are numerous services and platforms that offer real-time communications, including:

  • Landline phone service
  • Mobile phone service
  • Two-way radios
  • VoIP systems
  • Screen sharing
  • Instant messaging apps, such as WeChat
  • Teleconferencing
  • Video conferencing
  • Robotic telephony

What are the uses of real-time communication?

Whether you realize it or not, your business is already using some form of real-time communication. Here’s a look at just a few ways businesses use this type of technology almost every day.

Phone service

Businesses have been using both landline and mobile phone services for years to communicate with vendors, customers and employees. Today, however, businesses have the option of using VoIP systems that offer greater flexibility and functionality.

Customer support

Emerging real-time communication technology also gives businesses various ways to communicate with customers, such as instant messaging, 24/7 chat service and split-screen support.

Internal communication

Real-time communication features, such as Google Docs, allow internal teams to collaborate instantly from locations around the world. Other platforms, such as teleconferencing, are used to hold virtual meetings from any place and at any time.

Benefits of real-time communications

Real-time communication platforms offer a wide range of benefits, including:

Improved communications

The ability to communicate instantly with customers, vendors, board members and employees can eliminate back-and-forth communication, which can be both time-consuming and confusing.

Enhanced customer service

Today’s consumers have come to expect instant results, and real-time communication tools, such as instant messaging, VoIP systems and online chat services, give businesses a way to offer this level of customer service.

Increased productivity

Real-time communication enables businesses to streamline both internal and external communications. Instant communication can reduce confusion between team members to promote unified business practices and increase productivity.

Save time and money

From virtual meetings to instant customer communication, real-time communication can help businesses save time and money every day.

If your company is not reaping all the rewards that real-time communications offer, contact 8x8 today to learn more about our efficient and affordable real-time communications solutions.