Did you know that 55% of customers prefer to talk to a human customer representative on the phone? This figure should be a wake-up call to small businesses that are yet to embrace business phone systems. Companies without an appropriate phone system are likely to face communication challenges.
Making and receiving calls from clients and other stakeholders is an indispensable part of any business. With the different business phone systems to choose from, you can select one that meets your business needs.
Besides the ease of communication, phone systems automate several services, which helps to increase employee output. Read this guide to learn the different phone systems and their use.
PBX Phone System
The Private Branch Exchange (PBX) is a phone system that allows centralized routing calls and switching phone lines in an organization. Phones connect to the PBX, which in turn, assigns calls to respective lines automatically. PBX may have additional features such as conference calling, call holding, and routing to extensions.
Centralizing the selection of lines for calls is one of the primary advantages of PBX. This functionality makes scalability easier. What’s more, it is cost-effective, which is a plus for your business.
If you’re considering PBX as your business phone system, you might want to know the different types available. You can opt for either the traditional PBX, IP PBX, Hosted PBX, and SIP trunking. These phone systems have unique features that determine their functionality.
There are some essential questions to ask your small business phone provider to guide you in getting the right phone system. If you’re new to phone systems, making inquiries will help you. The last thing you want is to get a system that will frustrate your communication.
It is crucial to note that a physical PBX can be quite costly as compared to several other business phone systems. Some of the PBX systems require you to have specific hardware, which means that you need to pay licensing fees. You’ll also be liable for maintenance and upgrades, which need a knowledgeable vendor.
As such, the physical PBX systems are ideal for large companies that don’t have budgetary limitations. It also favors big companies working within the same building. Conversely, PBX systems might fail to resonate with small businesses that have budget constraints and remote workers.
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)
According to the Global Market Insights, the VoIP market is projected to hit $55 billion by 2025. With rising internet use, the growth won’t come as a surprise. Besides, VoIP is a cost-effective way of business communication.
VoIP is a phone system that transmits media and voice over IP networks. This office phone system uses the internet for communication instead of the traditional phone line or switching device. The business VoIP phone system has software that manages network connections, equipment, hardware, clients, and features.
VoIP has modern features such as call recording, conferencing, and video meetings, which improves its functionality in a business. It is entirely scalable, and you don’t have to worry about replacing your phone system as your business grows. Its portability further makes it easier to communicate with clients from just anywhere across the globe.
VoIP can integrate with other programs within your office, such as CRM. This capability will enhance the efficiency of operations. Nonetheless, ensure that you always have reliable internet connections to keep the phone system running.
VoIP has two main categories; enterprise and small business VoIP:
Enterprise VoIP Systems
The enterprise VoIP system is preferable for medium and large businesses. This type of VoIP helps large companies to cut costs while increasing their bottom line. Besides, providers of enterprise VoIP provide solutions that you’d hardly get with the traditional PBX system.
Once you identify signs necessitating a phone business upgrade, the enterprise VoIP is a great option. However, you should be ready to deal with the complexity resembling the PBX system. The phone system requires technical knowledge, which makes it relevant for big companies.
Small Business VoIP Systems
The small business VoIP systems are cheaper and less complex than their enterprise counterpart. The system still has all the functional features necessary for small business communication. A small business can enjoy seamless communication with this VoIP system, from team messaging to video conferencing.
Unlike enterprise VoIP, small business systems don’t require any technical expertise. You can set up without hiring a professional contractor. As a result, you’ll save money and still enjoy optimal benefits.
Given the nature of the small business VoIP systems, they are an ideal small business that mostly encourages remote working. As your business grows, you can scale up to an enterprise VoIP system. Whichever choice of VoIP, be sure that your business communication will be impeccable.
The Right Phone Systems Will Increase Your Business Efficiency
It would be best if you analyzed your company’s needs before selecting a phone system. The number of employees and reliance on the telephone can be an ideal guide. You need to invest in phone systems that resonate with the size of your company.
It is advisable to invest in a phone system that’s scalable to accommodate your growing small business. While at it, ensure that the system can integrate with other programs within your company. The choice of phone systems provider can make all the difference.
Contact us today for business phone systems that suit your firm’s needs.
