Although fax machines may seem like relics of a bygone tech era, faxing remains relevant, especially for businesses. The growing demand for cloud-based solutions and applications like https://comfax.com/ underscores this continued importance. Several compelling reasons explain why faxing is still essential today.

Reliability through standards interoperability

Since the first international technical standards for fax transmissions were established in 1968, these standards have been continuously updated to enhance speed and image quality. Fax machines and systems that support faxing adhere to both new and old standards. This ensures that a fax machine today can seamlessly communicate with one from the 1980s.

Sustained use due to the network effect

The phenomenon known as the network effect explains why text messaging and Facebook became so popular: the more people use a product or service, the more valuable it becomes. Faxing benefits from this same effect because:

1. Tens of millions of fax machines remain connected worldwide.
2. Modern business VoIP systems support faxing.
3. Faxes can be sent and received via email.

The role of faxing in international business

Although fax usage has declined in many parts of the world, it remains crucial in certain regions. In 2021, Japan had to scrap plans to phase out fax machines in government offices due to pushback from “faxophiles” who consider faxing indispensable. Many Japanese businesses still rely on this method, so international companies would do well to adopt it. Likewise, a Bitkom survey found that 25% of German companies still frequently use faxing.

While this is a decrease from previous years, it underscores its ongoing relevance. For businesses operating internationally, understanding fax trends in target countries can be advantageous for aligning with local business practices and boosting success. Consider modernizing your approach to faxing with comfax.com.

The security of faxing

Traditional faxing, which doesn’t rely on the internet, provides a direct peer-to-peer connection between machines. This secure method is preferred by healthcare providers and legal firms for transmitting sensitive information, as it cannot be intercepted like emails or web traffic. While e-faxing is becoming more secure, with many online vendors offering encryption and HIPAA compliance, traditional faxing remains a trusted option.

Faxing offers confirmation receipts

Traditional fax machines offer confirmation receipts, which include the date, time, and receiving fax number, verifying successful transmission. Though not as secure as the old telex answerback signals, these receipts provide proof of delivery. For instance, if a client claims not to have received an overdue invoice, the receipt serves as evidence. Many digital fax services now also offer delivery confirmations.

Faxing as a marketing tool overseas

Though fax marketing has been overtaken by email and SMS campaigns, it still exists overseas. Database compilers sell lists of fax numbers categorized by business type, location, and size, which marketers use to send unsolicited material aimed at generating leads. This approach remains a viable option in certain international markets.

Faxing as a unique communication method

The rarity of faxing today makes it noticeable. Companies may receive only a few faxes per month compared to the frequent volumes of the past, which can be advantageous. Consumer forums often recommend faxing complaints to companies for a faster response, due to its uncommon nature. Similar to postal mail, where response rates have increased despite declining usage, the uniqueness of faxing can help your business stand out.