VOIP

There is lots of excitement going around for VOIP. I have been in search to hear some first hand local experience but so far did not succeed.

I heard it is being used in Saudi Post. Curious to hear because VOIP I thought is not seen favourably by telecom companies and how come here it is so main stream!

My concern is to find out the economics. For what kind of firms it holds promise etc. I was told by one of the suppliers of the traditional PBXes that VOIP is suitable for companies having need to make lots of intl. calls for only then there really are some cost savings.

To be more specific, a traditional PBX with 48 extensions, 16 lines etc costed us around 35K which include telephone sets, PBX and installation. For a similar solution using VOIP, what would have been the direct costs and indirect costs (the cost of internet and what kind of connectivity is necessary - ie does it require a Lease / T1 line or a regular DSL would have been enough?)

A search on google gave me this link where there is a good list of local providers.

Though I tried going through much literature, I am still short of details to get my answers. Anyone of help out there, please..