Even though the term ‘telecoms’ covers the entire electronic communications network, a telecoms system can be interpreted as simply a telephone system. Choosing a new business phone system is a project all in itself. Like all successful projects, it should start with a list of prioritised requirements. Only2 then can the various telephone options, such as VoIP or PBX, be explored and offerings from vendors compared and considered.
Prioritising desirable features of a new business phone system is important because the options that many systems offer can be quite confusing. Knowing what’s important to support your business operation, and which features are merely nice bells and whistles, is a key factor in making a good purchasing decision.
Deciding on the technology
This first step determines many of the choices you will make down the line. For most SMEs, the choice of base technology comes down to either an in-house PBX or a VoIP system. Both have their advantages and drawbacks but more and more companies are opting for Internet based systems, either in the cloud or in-house. One reason is that Disaster Recovery is far easier. Internet-based systems also don’t require the level of IT support that a full blown PBX system does.
A quick overview of VoIP phone systems
VoIP phone systems are completely digital and use a company's existing Internet connectivity rather than the analogue copper wire of landline systems. They mimic the very rich feature set of expensive PBX equipment traditionally used by large companies, including:
- Call queues
- Automated attendants
- Ability to make calls from computers
- Sending voicemails to users' email
The range of features generally available, and which ones are important
As an example of a rich feature list, take a look at what the entry level Genesis business VOIP cloud hosted telephony system from GPS Telecoms offers you. However, there are a few specific, rewarding attributes to be considered too, such as:
1. Scalability
The system must cater for growth in your business. Adding new users and handsets should be effortless and inexpensive.
2. Support from a reputable supplier
Ordering a new business phone system and having it installed is just the first step in providing your business with an ongoing, dependable and useful tool. Continued support as and when you need it, is a critical factor.
3. Easy to manage
Complex PBX systems require a lot of IT support. Choosing a VoIP system, especially one that is cloud based, means that all management is done using a web browser interface. Ensure that help is readily and willingly available from your supplier.
4. Usability
Regardless of how rich your system’s feature set may be, it’s the everyday users who will need to operate those features. If the features are to be of any use to your business they must be easy and intuitive to use.
5. Mobile integration
Your system should be easily accessible from your users’ mobile phones. Mobile accessibility is convenient for all users and is especially useful for remote workers.
Professional advice
The best advice we can offer you when setting about choosing a new business phone system is to sit down with an expert and explain what you need for your business. Call us today on 03330 093 677 and speak with one of our engineers, who will assess your requirements and help you through the decision making process.
