Preparing for your first telecom audit might sound a bit overwhelming at first, but with the right steps, it doesn’t have to be stressful. If this is your first time going through an audit like this, you’re not alone. Many businesses, especially small ones, don’t always think about their telecom expenses until it’s time to check where all the money is going. Some helpful tools are out there, like routecanal.com, but even before you go looking for help, there are a few things you can do on your own to get started.
First, gather all your telecom bills from the past year, or at least the past six months. You want to have a clear picture of what services you're paying for—things like phone lines, internet connections, and mobile plans. Keep everything in one easy-to-find folder, whether it's a digital folder on your computer or a printed one on your desk.
Next, make a list of phone numbers, lines, and services you’re currently using. Are there lines that no one uses anymore? Are you paying for extra features that you don’t really need? A telecom audit is the perfect chance to spot waste and cut costs. You’d be surprised how often companies are billed for stuff they've forgotten about.
It’s also smart to check who’s using what. Maybe two departments are using separate phone plans that could be combined into one cheaper option. Or perhaps someone in your team still has a phone plan even though they left months ago. These little things add up over time.
Talk to your team members and ask what they actually need to do their work well. Sometimes services are added just to be safe, but if they aren’t being used, there’s no reason to keep paying for them.
Lastly, keep a simple spreadsheet of your findings. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a place to track costs, services, and any changes you’ve made. This will make future audits much easier, and you'll already have a good starting point for next time.
Getting ready for a telecom audit is mostly about getting organized, asking the right questions, and being aware of what you’re spending. With a little time and effort, you can feel more in control of your telecom setup—and maybe even save some money while you're at it.