Whether you’re a large or small business, having the perfect phone system that meets your unique needs is essential. That’s why VoIP systems are typically the best option for businesses of any size; they use existing internet connections and boast features like unlimited calling, automated menus, ring groups to call multiple employees at once, voicemail-to-email capabilities, and call recording.
On top of that, PBX and KSU systems may also be suitable for larger companies with more complex phone setup requirements.
With so many options available on the market today, it can seem overwhelming trying to decide which type of business phone system will work best for you – but rest assured, knowing there’s something out there ideally suited to keep your communication running smoothly!
FIND THE RIGHT BUSINESS PHONE SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR BUSINESS
Before selecting your business phone solution, consider these five tips:
TIP #1 – UNDERSTAND YOUR NEEDS
First, you must ensure that the system offers features and functions your enterprise needs. How many people will it accommodate? Can it grow with your company, or will you need to replace it at some point? For some organizations, essential features like caller ID and voicemail will suffice, yet, enhanced capabilities such as ring groups, an automated attendant, and music on hold are desirable for others.
Think about the other communication tools your company requires. Are you simply searching for a system that allows phone calls, or do you need something more comprehensive, like unified communications with video conferencing and real-time messaging?
TIP #2 – ARE THE CLOUD-BASED PHONE SYSTEM SERVICES RELIABLE?
Dependability is an essential factor to consider when selecting a business phone system. If it isn’t running when you need it, what use would it be? This is especially true for those investing in cloud-hosted solutions. Before making your decision inquire about each provider’s annual uptime percentage rate, and if it isn’t almost 100%, find out how they plan on resolving these issues and taking measures to enhance the dependability of their services moving forward.
Additionally, scour through the service-level agreement and see if any clauses are linked to uptime guarantees. Many business phone system providers will monetarily compensate you if the system does not meet a specific uptime rate.
TIP #3 – CONSIDER THE COSTS
Investing in a business phone system can be pretty economical, with monthly prices ranging from $15 to $50 per user. Most of the time, these advertised plans are offered when users make an annual payment for multiple users at once.
Businesses with ten or fewer employees should pay extra attention to pricing plans, as advertisements frequently default to an arrangement covering over 20 users and paying annually. This may not be the best fit for you; larger companies that purchase multiple accounts on a yearly contract can save 25% per user.
Rather than the typical unlimited calling to U.S. and Canada that many providers offer, Zoom features a more unique option with its pay-as-you-go “metered” pricing for calls and messaging. However, international fees might exist per minute for all other companies, depending on region and provider.
TIP #4 – LANDLINE, VOIP, OR VIRTUAL PHONE SYSTEM
As landline phone systems rely on local and regional phone companies to provide traditional wiring and connections, they demand an in-house IT team to maintain their hardware. Additionally, the hefty upfront cost of purchasing a PBX system is enough to deter many from investing. And unfortunately, due to fewer providers producing equipment that supports this model, landlines are rapidly becoming obsolete.
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems use your business’s internet connection to make calls. It’s a highly efficient system that can be cloud or on-premises based. By opting for a cloud-hosted VoIP system, your business can benefit from the fact that all of the PBX equipment is housed in the cloud and managed by your provider. Setting up one of these systems involves plugging configured IP phones into your LAN – no hidden upfront costs! On top of that, you don’t have to worry about regular maintenance or upgrading; simply pay an affordable monthly fee per user ($15-$60).
On-premises VoIP systems look and act much like traditional landlines, the critical difference being that they utilize an internet connection to transmit calls. This offers businesses more control over their phone system’s functioning and permits them to install security measures necessary for enhanced protection. However, it does require a considerable upfront capital investment in addition to monthly charges related to connecting incoming/outgoing calls – all of which are maintained by your company internally.
Businesses have another incredible choice – virtual phone systems. Setting up a virtual system is as easy as it gets. You don’t even need physical phones! Everything functions on an extensive call-forwarding tree. All the calls made to your primary business number are automatically redirected to your team’s mobile devices without any manual input and in whatever order suits best for you. Not only that, but this remarkable technology charges affordable monthly fees, so there aren’t any nasty surprises down the line.
TIP #5 – CONSIDER CUSTOMER SERVICE
Moreover, inspect the customer service options offered by your phone company. Suppose you cannot rely on an IT manager or employees who can tackle any problems that arise for your business. In that case, it’s best to go with a provider of business phone systems that will be available 24/7 in multiple channels and online resources to answer any questions you have.
TCI HAS YOU COVERED
For large or small business telephone solutions, contact TCI today. We’ve provided communication and technology services in Hampton Roads, Virginia, and beyond for almost 40 years. We can help you choose the right business phone solutions for your company.
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