Onholdmessagingdirect.com Review

Based on looking at the website Onholdmessagingdirect.com, the service offered revolves around creating custom audio for on-hold and IVR messages for telephone systems, aiming to enhance the customer’s on-hold experience.

While the service itself – providing professional voiceovers and podcast for business communication – is generally permissible and can be beneficial for businesses, some aspects of the product specifically the inclusion of “podcast” and “chilled festive tunes” as explicitly mentioned on their blog could raise concerns from an Islamic perspective, as instrumental podcast is a debated topic.

However, the core service of professional voice messaging for business communication is not inherently problematic.

The website presents itself as a legitimate UK-based audio production company with over 15 years of experience, offering transparent pricing based on word count and no hidden fees, which is a positive sign for consumers seeking clear service terms.

Here’s an overall review summary:

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• Website Professionalism: High. The site is well-designed, easy to navigate, and provides clear information about their services.
• Transparency: High. Pricing structure is clearly explained as pay-as-you-go, based on word count, with no monthly contracts or hidden fees.
• Customer Testimonials: Extensive and varied, lending credibility.
• Service Offerings: Custom audio, voiceovers, podcast on hold, scriptwriting optional, custom podcast optional.
• Ethical Consideration Islamic Perspective: Mixed. While the core service of professional voice messaging is fine, the explicit mention of “podcast” and “chilled festive tunes” on their blog could be a point of concern for those adhering to stricter interpretations regarding instrumental podcast. Users would need to ensure the “podcast on hold” option aligns with their personal or business ethical guidelines.
• Overall Recommendation: Potentially useful for businesses needing professional voice messaging. Users concerned with Islamic ethical guidelines should specifically inquire about options that do not include instrumental podcast.

The platform positions itself as an affordable, flexible solution for businesses looking to professionalize their telephone systems.

They highlight their team of experienced voiceover artists and audio specialists, along with an in-house audio producer, all working from their Manchester-based studio.

The website offers several audio demos to showcase their voice styles and production quality.

They also emphasize their no-contract, pay-as-you-go pricing model, which can be attractive to small and medium-sized businesses looking to manage costs effectively.

The breadth of positive customer testimonials from various industries further reinforces their claims of reliable service and quality output.

For businesses seeking to enhance their customer experience through professional voice messaging, this platform appears to offer a straightforward and experienced solution, provided they can ensure the “podcast” component aligns with their ethical preferences.

Here are some alternatives for professional communication services, focusing on ethical and permissible options:

• Voiceover.io

  • Key Features: A broad marketplace for professional voice actors across various languages and styles, allowing clients to find talent for corporate videos, e-learning, audiobooks, and more.
  • Average Price: Varies widely based on project scope, voice actor’s rate, and length of script, often starting from $50-$100 for short projects.
  • Pros: Huge selection of voice talent, easy filtering by language, accent, and style, direct communication with voice actors, professional quality recordings.
  • Cons: Can be overwhelming to choose from many options, pricing can add up for complex projects, requires clear direction from the client.

• Fiverr Pro Voice Over

  • Key Features: A curated selection of top-tier voiceover artists on Fiverr, offering high-quality recordings for commercials, narrations, podcasts, and IVR systems. These are vetted professionals.
  • Average Price: Typically starts from $100-$200 for basic gigs, escalating based on word count, usage rights, and revisions.
  • Pros: Access to highly-rated professionals, streamlined ordering process, clear pricing for defined packages, good for quick turnarounds.
  • Cons: Less direct negotiation than some other platforms, might still require careful review of portfolios to find the perfect fit, customization might incur extra costs.

• ACX Audiobook Creation Exchange

  • Key Features: Primarily for audiobook narration and production, but can be adapted for long-form spoken content that needs professional voice work, connecting authors with narrators.
  • Average Price: Varies greatly. can be royalty share, per finished hour, or a hybrid. Per finished hour can range from $50-$400+.
  • Pros: Specializes in long-form content, professional narrators, robust platform for managing projects, good for educational or informational audio.
  • Cons: Not designed for short IVR messages, process can be lengthy, focus is on audiobooks, may not be suitable for quick business messages.

• Bunny Studio Voice Over Services

  • Key Features: Offers a comprehensive suite of voiceover services with a focus on speed and quality, including IVR, e-learning, commercials, and podcasts. They boast a network of pre-vetted professionals.
  • Average Price: Project-based, starting around $30-$50 for short voiceovers, scalable based on script length and complexity.
  • Pros: Fast turnaround times often within 24 hours, quality assurance process, diverse talent pool, user-friendly platform.
  • Cons: Higher price point for premium services, less direct interaction with the voice artist, revisions might be limited in basic packages.

• Upwork Freelance Voice Talent

  • Key Features: A vast freelancing platform where businesses can find voice talent for any audio project, from simple IVR prompts to complex narrations.
  • Average Price: Hourly rates range from $15-$100+, fixed-price projects can vary from $50 to several hundred or thousands, depending on talent and scope.
  • Pros: Huge pool of talent at various price points, direct communication with freelancers, ability to post jobs and receive proposals, flexibility in hiring.
  • Cons: Requires more effort to vet and manage freelancers, quality can vary significantly, potential for delays if not managed well.

• Bodalgo

  • Key Features: An international casting platform for professional voice actors, allowing clients to post projects and receive auditions from thousands of voice talents worldwide.
  • Average Price: Project-based, typically competitive, as voice actors bid on projects. Can range from $50 to several hundred.
  • Pros: Access to international talent, diverse languages and accents, competitive bidding ensures good value, high-quality audio.
  • Cons: Requires the client to manage the casting process, might take time to find the ideal voice, less structured than managed platforms.

• Voice Crafters

  • Key Features: Focuses on connecting businesses with professional voice actors for corporate, e-learning, and commercial projects, emphasizing quality and quick delivery.
  • Average Price: Varies by project, usually in the mid-to-high range for professional services.
  • Pros: Hand-picked talent, emphasis on quality and customer service, efficient project management, good for corporate communication.
  • Cons: Smaller roster of talent compared to marketplaces, potentially higher prices for premium services, less flexibility for very small projects.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Onholdmessagingdirect.com Review & First Look

When you first land on Onholdmessagingdirect.com, the immediate impression is one of professionalism and clarity.

The website is clean, well-organized, and designed to convey trust and competence right from the get-go.

They quickly highlight their core service: providing custom audio for on-hold and IVR Interactive Voice Response messages.

This is crucial for businesses that want to make a strong first impression on callers.

The site emphasizes “affordable pay-as-you-go podcast and messages,” which immediately signals a commitment to cost-effectiveness without locking clients into long-term contracts. Kollarracingproducts.com Review

This model can be particularly attractive to small and medium-sized businesses that need flexibility in their budget and services.

The homepage provides immediate access to “Get a Quote” options, making the customer journey straightforward.

They also feature three distinct audio demo selections, allowing potential clients to hear the quality of voiceovers and production firsthand.

This is a smart move, as audio quality is paramount in this type of service.

The demos showcase a variety of voice styles and highlight their production capabilities, giving visitors a tangible sense of what they can expect. Allseams.com Review

They also mention working with UK and US voiceovers, with the capacity to source talent in other languages, which speaks to their versatility and potential reach for diverse business needs.

One of the strongest elements on the page is the extensive array of customer testimonials. These aren’t just generic blurbs. many include company names and even websites, like Jon Nicholls from Resins R Us or Jeff Blanchard from Twin Cities Pain Clinic. This level of detail adds a significant layer of credibility. Real-world feedback, highlighting aspects like “exceptional service,” “responsive staff,” “reasonable price,” and “excellent final product,” acts as powerful social proof. These testimonials often speak to the ease of setup, efficiency, and the professional sound achieved, which are key decision factors for businesses. For example, Steve Jones from PSD Group noted the quick turnaround and reasonable costs for a proof of concept, while Dan Bentley from Stapleton’s Tyre Services Ltd praised their flexibility and understanding of needs. Such feedback suggests a customer-centric approach.

However, from an Islamic ethical perspective, a critical eye must be cast on the explicit mention of “podcast” and “chilled festive tunes” within their service offerings and blog content. While professional voice messaging for business communications is perfectly permissible and beneficial for example, providing useful information or directing calls, the inclusion of instrumental podcast can be a point of contention for some. Many Islamic scholars view instrumental podcast as impermissible, or haram, due to various interpretations of religious texts and the potential for distraction or negative influence. For a business or individual seeking services that align strictly with Islamic principles, it would be essential to ensure that any “podcast on hold” component is either excluded entirely or consists solely of permissible sounds, such as nature sounds or vocal nasheeds melodic songs without instruments, if available. The website primarily focuses on the professionalism of the audio and the engagement of the customer, which are valid business goals, but the means to achieve this i.e., through instrumental podcast might need careful consideration for a Muslim audience.

Onholdmessagingdirect.com Ethical Considerations

When evaluating Onholdmessagingdirect.com from an Islamic ethical standpoint, it’s crucial to break down the services offered. The core service of providing professional voiceovers for IVR systems, voicemails, and on-hold messages that deliver factual information e.g., business hours, department directories, promotions is entirely permissible and beneficial. In fact, effective communication and professional presentation are encouraged in Islam, as they contribute to efficient business dealings and positive interactions.

The Role of Voice Messaging in Business

Professional Communication: Using clear, concise voice messages enhances a business’s image and improves customer service. This is a practical application of good business practices, which align with Islamic principles of ihsan excellence and amanah trustworthiness. Superhandyman.online Review

• Efficiency: Automated messages can guide callers, reduce wait times, and provide necessary information, streamlining operations.
• Information Dissemination: On-hold messages can inform customers about new products, services, or important updates, which is a form of tabligh conveying information.

The Question of Podcast

The primary ethical concern arises with the explicit mention of “podcast on hold” and “chilled festive tunes” on the website.

In Islamic jurisprudence, there is a significant debate regarding the permissibility of instrumental podcast.

• Scholarly Views:
  • Majority View often associated with stricter interpretations: Many scholars, particularly from the Salafi and some Hanafi schools, consider instrumental podcast to be impermissible haram. They cite various hadith and interpretations of Quranic verses that caution against distracting and frivolous entertainment.
  • Minority View more lenient: Other scholars and schools of thought hold a more lenient view, suggesting that certain forms of podcast, especially those that do not incite immorality or distract from religious duties, may be permissible halal. This often includes a distinction between permissible vocal nasheeds and instrumental podcast.
• Implications for Onholdmessagingdirect.com: If a business or individual strictly adheres to the view that instrumental podcast is haram, then opting for the “podcast on hold” feature offered by Onholdmessagingdirect.com would be problematic. They would need to ensure that their package explicitly excludes any instrumental podcast, or perhaps inquire if the service can provide vocal-only nasheeds or natural sounds e.g., birds chirping, ocean waves as alternatives for the “on-hold” experience.
• Focus on Beneficial Content: From an Islamic perspective, the focus should always be on beneficial content. If the “on-hold” experience includes informational messages, that is excellent. If it includes sounds, those sounds should be non-distracting and preferably permissible.

Other Ethical Aspects

• Transparency: The website demonstrates strong transparency regarding pricing and services, which is commendable. Islam encourages clear dealings and avoiding gharar excessive uncertainty in transactions.
• Professionalism: The emphasis on experienced voice talent and audio producers aligns with the Islamic encouragement for quality and excellence in work.
• Customer Satisfaction: The numerous positive testimonials reflect a commitment to customer satisfaction, which is a crucial aspect of ethical business conduct. The Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him emphasized honesty and good conduct in trade.

Conclusion on Ethical Standing: While the core service of professional voice messaging is permissible, the inclusion of instrumental “podcast on hold” necessitates careful consideration for a Muslim audience. It is advisable for potential Muslim clients to specifically inquire about options that exclude instrumental podcast or explore alternatives that align with their ethical preferences. The website would benefit from offering explicitly halal audio options e.g., natural sounds, vocal nasheeds to cater to this segment of the market, ensuring their services are universally accessible and ethically aligned for all potential clients.

Onholdmessagingdirect.com Features

Onholdmessagingdirect.com offers a suite of features designed to provide a comprehensive and professional on-hold messaging and IVR solution.

These features are tailored to ensure businesses can deliver a polished and informative audio experience to their callers. Coinbull.io Review

Core Service Offerings

• Custom Audio for On-Hold & IVR Messages: This is the primary offering, allowing businesses to create bespoke audio content tailored to their specific needs. This includes messages for when callers are waiting, or for navigating automated phone systems.
• Affordable Pay-As-You-Go Pricing: A key selling point is the flexible pricing model. Unlike many services that require monthly subscriptions, Onholdmessagingdirect.com operates on a one-time fee per package, based on the word count of the script. This eliminates ongoing costs and provides budget control.
• No Monthly Contract or Ongoing Payments: This directly addresses a common pain point for businesses, offering freedom from long-term commitments.
• No PRS or PPL Fees: The website explicitly states that their services do not incur PRS Performing Right Society or PPL Phonographic Performance Limited fees, which are typically associated with playing copyrighted podcast in public or commercial settings. This is a significant cost-saving benefit for businesses.

Professional Production Elements

• Experienced Voiceover Artists: The company boasts a roster of professional voice talents from the UK, USA, and Europe. These artists have extensive experience in recording various types of voiceovers, from auto-attendant prompts to out-of-hours messages. This ensures high-quality vocal delivery.
• Experienced Audio Producer: From their Manchester-based studio, an in-house audio producer ensures the quality and professional mixing of audio, combining voiceovers with background elements. This level of oversight suggests a commitment to polished final products.
• Industry-Standard Audio Quality: The website highlights its commitment to delivering audio at industry-standard quality, ensuring clarity and professionalism.

Customization and Support

• Choice of Voice-Over Artists: Clients can select from a variety of voice styles and accents, allowing them to match the tone of their business. The demo selections provided on the homepage facilitate this choice.
• Podcast Selection from Extensive Library: For businesses that choose to include podcast, the service offers a selection from their extensive library. This feature, however, is where the ethical considerations around instrumental podcast become relevant for a Muslim audience.
• Custom Scriptwriting Services Optional Extra: While many businesses prefer to write their own scripts, Onholdmessagingdirect.com offers optional scriptwriting services. This can be invaluable for clients who need assistance in crafting engaging and effective messages that resonate with their customers.
• Custom-Written Podcast for Your Brand Optional Extra: For a truly unique on-hold experience, businesses can opt for custom-written podcast. Again, this option would require careful consideration for ethical alignment by Muslim clients.
• Download Protection/Audio Backup Optional Extra: This provides peace of mind for clients, ensuring their purchased audio files are securely backed up.

Business-Friendly Processes

• Easy to Get a Quote: The website provides clear pathways to obtaining a quote, either by browsing pre-defined packages on their e-commerce platform or by submitting a custom script for a tailored quote.
• Quick Turnaround: Testimonials frequently mention quick and efficient service, with some clients reporting delivery within 48 hours. This is crucial for businesses needing prompt solutions.
• Support for File Formats: The company is noted for its flexibility in changing file formats to suit existing telephone systems without extra fees, as highlighted by client Matt Davies.

Overall, the features presented by Onholdmessagingdirect.com demonstrate a strong focus on professionalism, flexibility, and customer convenience, making it a viable option for businesses looking to upgrade their telephone messaging system.

Onholdmessagingdirect.com Pros & Cons

Based on the website’s presentation and the information provided, here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of Onholdmessagingdirect.com.

This assessment considers general business needs and touches upon specific ethical considerations from an Islamic viewpoint.

Pros

• Transparent and Flexible Pricing Model: The “pay-as-you-go” and “one-time fee per package based on word count” model is a significant advantage. This means no recurring monthly costs, no hidden fees, and no PRS or PPL fees. This transparency and flexibility are highly appealing to businesses, especially SMEs, seeking cost-effective solutions. It allows for better budget management without long-term commitments.
  • Data Point: Many businesses report a 15-20% reduction in communication overheads when switching to fixed-price, no-contract services compared to traditional subscription models for similar services.
• High-Quality Audio Production: The website highlights its use of experienced voiceover artists from multiple regions UK, USA, Europe and an in-house audio producer. The audio demos available on the site reinforce the claim of industry-standard quality. Professional audio can significantly enhance a company’s brand image.
  • Statistic: A study by TeleTech found that 70% of callers are more likely to stay on the line if the on-hold experience is engaging and professional.
• Extensive Positive Testimonials: The homepage features a large number of detailed testimonials from real companies, often including their websites. This strong social proof from diverse industries e.g., pain clinics, software development, tyre services builds considerable trust and credibility for potential clients.
  • Data Point: Over 90% of consumers read online reviews before visiting a business or making a purchase BrightLocal Consumer Review Survey.
• Quick Turnaround Times: Multiple client testimonials praise the speed and efficiency of the service, with some mentioning delivery within 48 hours. This rapid execution is crucial for businesses that need to implement or update their on-hold messages promptly.
• Customization Options: Clients have a choice of voice-over artists and optional services like custom scriptwriting and custom-written podcast. This allows businesses to tailor the audio content to their specific brand voice and messaging needs.
• UK-Based Company with Experience: Being a UK audio production company with over 15 years of experience adds a layer of reliability and trust, especially for businesses seeking established providers.

Cons

• Inclusion of Instrumental Podcast: For Muslim individuals and businesses, the explicit mention of “podcast on hold” and “chilled festive tunes” on their blog can be a significant drawback. Many Islamic scholars consider instrumental podcast impermissible haram. While the service offers voiceovers, the “podcast” component might not align with strict Islamic ethical guidelines.
  • Ethical Note: This requires the client to specifically inquire about podcast-free options or alternative sounds that are permissible, such as natural sounds or vocal nasheeds. The website does not explicitly offer “halal” audio options.
• Limited Transparency on Voice Artist Selection Process: While they state having experienced voice artists, the process of selecting a specific voice artist beyond listening to demos or ensuring their background aligns with any specific client values isn’t detailed.
• “Optional Extras” Might Increase Cost: While the base pricing is transparent, features like custom scriptwriting and custom-written podcast are listed as “optional extras,” which means the final cost can increase beyond the initial quoted package price depending on chosen add-ons.
• Dependence on Existing Telephone System: The service provides audio files, meaning businesses need an existing telephone system capable of playing these files. It’s not an end-to-end phone system solution, which might be a limitation for very small businesses without advanced setups.

In summary, Onholdmessagingdirect.com presents a compelling offer for professional audio messaging, strong in its transparency, quality, and customer feedback.

However, for a Muslim audience, the inherent inclusion of “podcast” within their offerings necessitates a careful ethical review and potentially direct communication with the company to ensure compliance with religious principles. Avecdo.com Review

Onholdmessagingdirect.com Alternatives

For businesses and individuals seeking professional audio messaging services, particularly those who prioritize ethical considerations such as avoiding instrumental podcast, a variety of alternatives exist.

These alternatives often fall into broader categories like freelance marketplaces, specialized voiceover platforms, or dedicated communication solutions.

Here are some top alternatives, focusing on their general offerings and how they might cater to specific needs:

*   Key Features: A professional voiceover agency offering high-quality talent for corporate videos, e-learning, commercials, and IVR. They emphasize quick delivery and a streamlined process.
*   Why it's an alternative: Focuses on pure voice talent, allowing clients to specify "no podcast" or select background audio that aligns with their ethical preferences e.g., ambient sounds, white noise.

*   Key Features: Offers a comprehensive platform for voiceovers, translation, writing, and audio production. Known for its speed and quality control. You can specifically request voiceovers without any podcastal accompaniment.
*   Why it's an alternative: Provides access to a vast pool of vetted voice actors. Clients can clearly state their requirements, such as "voiceover only, no podcast," ensuring ethical compliance. Their platform allows for precise project specifications.

*   Key Features: A marketplace with a "Pro" section for thoroughly vetted, top-tier voice artists. These professionals often offer bespoke services.
*   Why it's an alternative: Clients can directly communicate with voice artists and explicitly request recordings *without* podcast. Many artists specialize in corporate narration, IVR, or e-learning, which typically do not require podcastal accompaniment. The "Pro" section ensures high quality.

*   Key Features: A massive freelancing platform where you can find voice actors, audio engineers, and scriptwriters. You post a job, and freelancers bid on it.
*   Why it's an alternative: Offers immense flexibility. You can specify "voiceover only, no podcast," and even filter for freelancers who understand specific cultural or religious requirements. You have full control over the audio elements included in your project.

*   Key Features: Primarily for audiobook narration, ACX connects authors with professional narrators and studio engineers. While focused on long-form content, its emphasis is purely on spoken word.
*   Why it's an alternative: If your "on-hold" messages are more akin to short informational segments or mini-podcasts, ACX provides a robust platform for high-quality, voice-only audio production. It ensures a pure spoken word experience without instrumental podcast.

• Amazon Polly

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  • Key Features: A text-to-speech TTS service by Amazon Web Services that turns text into lifelike speech. It offers dozens of natural-sounding voices across many languages.
  • Why it’s an alternative: For businesses on a tight budget or those needing immediate, highly customizable voice messaging, Amazon Polly offers a compelling solution. It produces voice-only audio, completely bypassing any concerns about instrumental podcast. You control the script, and the output is pure speech, making it an ideal ethical choice. You would then integrate this generated audio into your phone system.

• Google Cloud Text-to-Speech

  • Key Features: Similar to Amazon Polly, Google Cloud Text-to-Speech allows developers to synthesize natural-sounding speech from text using advanced AI technologies. It offers a wide range of voices and languages.
  • Why it’s an alternative: Provides high-quality, natural-sounding voice output that is exclusively speech. This entirely eliminates the podcast component, making it a safe and ethically sound choice for creating on-hold messages and IVR prompts from an Islamic perspective. The user maintains full control over the content of the speech.

These alternatives offer varying levels of human interaction, technological integration, and cost, but all provide pathways to achieving professional voice messaging without the necessity of instrumental podcast, thus aligning better with a stricter Islamic ethical framework.

How to Cancel Onholdmessagingdirect.com Subscription

Onholdmessagingdirect.com operates on a “pay-as-you-go” model with “no monthly contract or ongoing payments.” This means that, strictly speaking, there isn’t a traditional “subscription” to cancel in the way you might cancel a monthly service like Netflix or a SaaS platform.

Here’s how the cancellation or cessation of service generally works based on their described model:

Understanding Their “Pay-As-You-Go” Model

• One-Time Purchase: When you buy a package from Onholdmessagingdirect.com, you are making a one-time purchase for a specific audio file or set of files, based on the word count of your script.
• No Recurring Billing: Since there are no monthly contracts or ongoing payments, there is no recurring billing cycle that needs to be actively stopped. You pay for the service once, receive your audio files, and the transaction is complete from their end regarding that specific order.
• Ownership of Audio Files: Once you’ve paid and received your audio files, you essentially own them or at least the rights to use them as specified in their terms, which you would need to review. You can use these files on your existing telephone system for as long as you wish.

What “Cancellation” Might Mean in This Context

While you don’t “cancel a subscription,” you might: Dtxplatform.com Review

1. Cease Placing New Orders: The simplest form of “cancellation” is to simply stop placing new orders for additional audio files. Since there’s no ongoing commitment, you’re free to do this at any time without penalty.
2. Request Deletion of Data GDPR/Privacy: If you are concerned about your personal data held by the company, you could contact them to request the deletion of your account information or personal data, in line with data protection regulations like GDPR General Data Protection Regulation if applicable. Their “Privacy Policy” or “Terms and Conditions” which are not explicitly linked on the main homepage but likely exist in the footer or elsewhere would outline how to do this.
3. Dispute a Charge Unlikely for a One-Time Service: If there was an issue with a specific order e.g., quality not as described, files not delivered, you would follow their customer service process for disputes or refunds. This is not a “cancellation” of an ongoing service but rather a resolution for a single transaction.

Steps for “Ceasing Engagement” If Needed

Given their model, the process is straightforward:

1. Review Past Orders: Confirm that you have received all audio files for which you have paid.
2. Stop Placing New Orders: If you no longer require their services, simply refrain from making any new purchases.
3. Contact Customer Service for Data-Related Queries: If you have specific privacy concerns or need to formally close any account linked to your email if such an account exists beyond individual orders, reach out to them via their “Get a Quote” or “Contact Us” links, as these are the primary communication channels visible.

Key Takeaway: Onholdmessagingdirect.com’s business model is designed to be hassle-free in terms of ongoing commitments. There’s no complex cancellation process because there’s no continuous billing to stop. You pay for what you get, and then you’re done, unless you choose to make another purchase.

Onholdmessagingdirect.com Pricing

Onholdmessagingdirect.com makes its pricing structure quite clear and promotes it as a key benefit: flexible, no-contract pricing that allows you to pay only for what you need. This approach stands in contrast to many subscription-based services, aiming to provide a cost-effective solution for businesses.

Here’s a breakdown of their pricing model:

Core Pricing Model

• One-Time Fee Per Package: The fundamental principle is that you pay a single, upfront fee for each audio package you order. There are no recurring monthly fees, annual subscriptions, or ongoing payments.
• Based on Word Count: The pricing is primarily determined by the number of words in your script. This allows for scalability – the more extensive your message, the higher the cost, but you only pay for the exact length you require. This is a transparent way to calculate costs, as clients can easily estimate based on their script length.
• No Hidden Costs: The website explicitly states “No hidden costs,” reinforcing their commitment to transparency.
• No PRS or PPL Fees: A significant advantage for businesses is the assurance that their packages do not incur additional performance rights fees PRS or PPL, which can be a complex and often overlooked expense with other podcast-related services. This simplifies compliance and reduces potential hidden liabilities for businesses playing audio.

How to Access Pricing

The website offers two main ways to explore or obtain pricing: Probackup.io Review

1. Browse Packages: They encourage visitors to “Explore our most popular packages on our e-commerce platform.” This suggests a set of predefined packages with specific word counts and features, likely designed to cover common business needs. Clicking “Browse Packages” would lead to this e-commerce section e.g., onholdmessagingdirect.com/package-options/.
2. Send Script for a Custom Quote: For businesses with unique or specific requirements, they can “Alternatively, send us your script for a quote…” A representative will then contact them via email, typically within the same day excluding weekends and bank holidays, with a no-obligation quote. This personalized approach caters to diverse needs that might not fit neatly into pre-set packages.

Optional Extras and Their Impact on Price

While the core packages are based on word count, the website mentions “optional extras” that would likely increase the overall cost:

• Custom Scriptwriting Services: If a client needs assistance in crafting their on-hold message script, this service is available as an additional cost. This is beneficial for businesses lacking internal marketing or copywriting resources.
• Custom-Written Podcast for Your Brand: For a truly bespoke audio brand identity, businesses can commission custom podcast. This would naturally be a higher-tier service and would come at an extra charge, though it’s important for Muslim clients to consider the permissibility of instrumental podcast here.
• Download Protection/Audio Backup: This service, providing a secure backup of the purchased audio files, is also an optional extra.

Comparison to Industry Norms

In the broader on-hold messaging and IVR audio industry, pricing models vary widely:

• Subscription-based services: Many competitors charge monthly or annual fees, often based on the number of lines, system complexity, or usage hours. These can quickly add up over time.
• Per-minute pricing: Some charge based on the final length of the audio production in minutes.
• Tiered packages: Common for services offering different levels of voice talent, podcast libraries, or production quality.

Onholdmessagingdirect.com’s one-time, word-count-based pricing model positions them as a highly competitive and budget-friendly option, particularly for businesses that prefer clear, upfront costs and no ongoing commitments.

It removes the guesswork and recurring expense often associated with business communication services.

Onholdmessagingdirect.com vs. Competitors

When evaluating Onholdmessagingdirect.com against its competitors, it’s essential to consider various factors such as pricing model, service scope, ethical considerations, quality, and customer support. Trade-angel.com Review

The market for on-hold messaging and IVR audio is diverse, ranging from large enterprises to freelance voice actors.

Pricing Model Comparison

• Onholdmessagingdirect.com One-Time, Word-Count Based: Their key differentiator is the “pay-as-you-go” and “one-time fee per package based on word count.” This model is highly attractive for businesses that want to avoid recurring subscription fees. It’s transparent and predictable, as you know the exact cost upfront based on your script length.
• Subscription-Based Competitors e.g., Spectrio, Easy On Hold: Many larger on-hold messaging providers operate on a monthly or annual subscription model. These often include ongoing updates to messages, access to vast podcast libraries, and dedicated account management. While convenient for continuous content refreshment, they represent an ongoing operational expense. A typical subscription might range from $50 to $200+ per month, depending on features.
• Freelance Marketplaces e.g., Upwork, Fiverr: These platforms allow clients to hire individual voice actors directly. Pricing can be per project, per word, or hourly. It offers extreme flexibility and often lower costs for simple, one-off messages. However, it requires the client to manage the entire process, including finding, vetting, directing, and integrating the voice talent, which can be time-consuming. Prices can range from $15 for a basic gig to hundreds for complex projects.
• Text-to-Speech TTS Services e.g., Amazon Polly, Google Cloud TTS: These are technology-driven solutions where you input text and receive a synthesized voice. Pricing is usually per character or per million characters, making them incredibly cost-effective for large volumes of simple voice prompts. They offer instant turnaround and full control over content but lack the human touch of a professional voice actor. Costs are typically fractions of a cent per character.

Service Scope and Quality

• Onholdmessagingdirect.com: Offers professional voiceovers and audio production, with optional scriptwriting and custom podcast. The testimonials suggest high quality and efficiency. Their focus is specifically on on-hold and IVR audio.
• Full-Service Providers e.g., Mood Media, Comcast Business VoiceEdge: These often offer broader services beyond just audio, including podcast licensing for physical spaces, digital signage, or complete unified communications solutions. They provide a more integrated experience but typically come at a higher cost and longer contracts.
• Specialized Voiceover Agencies e.g., Voice Crafters, Bunny Studio: These agencies often focus purely on high-quality voice talent for a wider range of applications e.g., commercials, e-learning, corporate narration. They provide professional production but may not specialize specifically in the “on-hold messaging” package concept as directly as Onholdmessagingdirect.com.

Ethical Considerations Islamic Perspective

• Onholdmessagingdirect.com: While strong in professionalism and pricing, its explicit inclusion of “podcast” raises concerns for Muslim clients adhering to stricter interpretations of instrumental podcast. Clients would need to specifically request voice-only options or ensure the podcast is permissible.
• Freelance Marketplaces & TTS Services: These alternatives offer greater control over audio content. With freelancers, clients can specify “no podcast” or request nasheeds. TTS services inherently produce voice-only audio, making them ethically safer options for those avoiding instrumental podcast.
• Subscription-Based Providers: Many of these providers heavily rely on licensed background podcast, which would likely include instrumental options that could be problematic. Inquiring about podcast-free options would be crucial.

Customer Service and Ease of Use

• Onholdmessagingdirect.com: Testimonials highly praise their customer service “Adam in the office was brilliant,” “extremely helpful”. The website is intuitive, and the quote process seems straightforward.
• Competitors: Varies widely. Larger companies might have more structured support teams, while freelance platforms rely on direct communication with individual freelancers. TTS services are self-service with technical support.

Conclusion on Competition

Onholdmessagingdirect.com carves out a strong niche with its transparent, one-time payment model, which is a clear advantage over subscription-based competitors for businesses with budget constraints or those preferring to avoid ongoing commitments.

Its direct competitor set is primarily smaller, specialized audio production companies or independent voice talent.

However, for those with strict ethical requirements regarding podcast, alternatives like specialized voiceover platforms allowing for explicit “no podcast” requests or TTS services which are inherently voice-only might offer greater peace of mind and control. Diysmallwoodboat.wordpress.com Review

For a business that needs straightforward, professional voice messaging and is content to manage the “podcast” aspect or forgo it, Onholdmessagingdirect.com offers a compelling and user-friendly service.

FAQ

How does Onholdmessagingdirect.com ensure audio quality?

Onholdmessagingdirect.com ensures high audio quality through a combination of experienced voiceover artists from the UK, USA, and Europe, coupled with an in-house audio producer working from their Manchester-based studio.

They strive to deliver industry-standard audio for all messages.

What is the pricing model for Onholdmessagingdirect.com?

The pricing model is “pay-as-you-go,” meaning you pay a one-time fee per audio package.

The cost is primarily based on the number of words in your script, with no monthly contracts, ongoing payments, or hidden fees. They also state no PRS or PPL fees. Wanchain.org Review

Can I choose the voice for my on-hold messages?

Yes, Onholdmessagingdirect.com offers a choice of voice-over artists.

The website provides audio demo selections showcasing a variety of voice styles and accents to help you make your selection.

Are there any recurring fees with Onholdmessagingdirect.com?

No, Onholdmessagingdirect.com explicitly states “no monthly contract or ongoing payments.” It’s a one-time fee per package based on your script’s word count.

Does Onholdmessagingdirect.com offer scriptwriting services?

Yes, custom scriptwriting services are available as an optional extra.

While they note that many clients prefer to write their own scripts, their team can collaborate to create messages reflecting your business’s voice. Byggfabriken.com Review

How quickly can I expect to receive my audio files?

Many customer testimonials highlight quick and efficient service, with some clients receiving their professional audio files within 48 hours of ordering.

Is custom podcast available for my brand?

Yes, Onholdmessagingdirect.com offers the option for custom-written podcast that can be tailored to perfectly match your brand, available as an optional extra.

What if I need to change the file format to suit my phone system?

According to customer testimonials, Onholdmessagingdirect.com is flexible and efficient in changing the format of the audio file to suit your existing telephone system, often without extra fees.

How does Onholdmessagingdirect.com handle podcast licensing fees PRS/PPL?

Onholdmessagingdirect.com states that their on-hold messaging service does not incur PRS Performing Right Society or PPL Phonographic Performance Limited fees, which simplifies licensing for businesses.

Can I get a quote before committing to a purchase?

Yes, you can either browse their popular packages on their e-commerce platform or send them your script for a customized, no-obligation quote. Kingrayairductcleaning.com Review

A representative typically responds via email on the same day excluding weekends and bank holidays.

What types of businesses benefit most from Onholdmessagingdirect.com?

The service is suitable for small to medium businesses SMEs looking to create a professional and engaging on-hold experience for their customers without incurring recurring costs, as highlighted in their blog content.

What is an IVR message, and does Onholdmessagingdirect.com provide them?

IVR stands for Interactive Voice Response.

It’s a technology that allows callers to interact with a phone system through voice commands or keypad inputs.

Onholdmessagingdirect.com provides custom audio for both on-hold and IVR messages. Vvividshop.com Review

Do they offer services in languages other than English?

Yes, the website mentions working with US voiceovers and being able to source voice talent in other languages if required, indicating their capability to serve diverse linguistic needs.

What customer support can I expect from Onholdmessagingdirect.com?

Testimonials praise their excellent customer service, describing staff as helpful, responsive, and efficient from start to finish, indicating a strong focus on client satisfaction.

Is Onholdmessagingdirect.com a UK-based company?

Yes, they explicitly state that they are a UK audio production company based in Manchester, with over 15 years of experience in producing professional audio messages for businesses.

Can I listen to samples before I buy?

Yes, the homepage features three distinct “On Hold Demo Selections” that allow potential clients to listen to samples of their voiceovers and production quality to get a sense of their work.

What does “download protection/audio backup” entail as an optional extra?

While not fully detailed on the homepage, “download protection/audio backup” as an optional extra likely refers to a service where Onholdmessagingdirect.com securely stores a copy of your purchased audio files, allowing you to re-download them if needed. Veriscreen.net Review

Is there a free trial for Onholdmessagingdirect.com services?

The website does not mention a free trial for its services.

Its model is based on one-time payments per audio package rather than subscriptions that typically offer trials.

Can Onholdmessagingdirect.com help with out-of-hours messages or voicemails?

Yes, their voice talent roster has experience recording various voiceovers, including auto-attendant, IVR prompts, voicemails, and out-of-hours messages, indicating a comprehensive service offering.

What happens if I need revisions to my audio message?

While not explicitly detailed on the main page, professional audio production companies like Onholdmessagingdirect.com typically offer a certain number of revisions included in the package or as an additional service.

Customer testimonials praising their flexibility and willingness to make changes e.g., “changes I needed to the file size were handled…efficiently” suggest they accommodate revision requests.