Skype

Skype

By Tyler Endres

Skype is a software program that allows users to make telephone calls over the internet to other users for free. Calls can also be made to landlines and cell phones for a fee. Other features available through Skype include instant messaging, file transfer, short message service, and video conferencing. The software program was created by the Swedish and Danish entrepreneurs Niklas Zennström and Janus Friis in 2003. The Skype Group was acquired by eBay in 2005 and has experienced rapid growth ever since.

Advantages of using Skype include making it possible for anyone with an internet connection to make free high-quality phone calls. It can give small businesses the ability to compete with larger competitors by lowering operating costs and increasing productivity with voice calls, instant conference calling, group chat, file-transfer, free calling. Skype is also available in 27 languages which can be a huge advantage for international companies or businesses looking to globalize.

Skype has many advantages but it’s not perfect. One disadvantage can be experienced by users with slow internet connections. The sound quality may be rough and delays in transmission are common. Another con of using Skype is that not all of its features are free. Some cost money and the fees can add up. There has also been some security issues with the software.

I believe that Skype should be used within an organization as a mean of cheaper communication. Skype could be used internally as well as externally and dramatically lower a company’s phone bill.

Overall, I would rate Skype as 3.5 out of 5. While it’s very useful and cost effective, it also has a lot of kinks to work out before it will be widely used and accepted among corporations.