Phone systems can come equipped with an array of different features that cater to businesses of all sizes. If you are in the market for a new phone system, chances are you have begun comparing companies, prices, and service offerings. Before you move ahead with the purchasing process, it is a good idea to consider the basics. The type of phone system that is best for your business depends on a variety of factors:
Size of your company: Larger companies and smaller businesses have different phone system needs. When evaluating size, consider the potential for growth- not all systems are equally scalable. Consider how many extensions you currently use, your call volume (both incoming and outgoing) and whether you will be using existing office infrastructure to handle phone traffic- for example, if you connect to the internet using a T-1 line and plan to install a VoIP phone system.
Features needed: If you have an existing system, getting an idea of the features you need should be relatively easy. Advanced features like videoconferencing, call tracking, and call monitoring are only available with certain types of systems.
Budget: Basic phone service packages are often just that- very basic. You may need to pay extra for common features like voicemail, call forward, and call transfer.
Location: Some phone system companies only serve specific geographic areas, or can experience more service interruptions in certain locations. It is always a good idea to get a local reference for a company you are considering working with, especially if you are considering a hosted phone system or a VoIP solution.