Trying to decide on a business phone system can be challenging considering the vast array of options on the market. One of the biggest factors a company should take into consideration is how large it is. Therefore, your company size will largely determine the right business phone system for your company. We’ve listed some of the most popular choices below, organized by company size.
Personal or Small Business (1-5 users)
Popular Options:
- Consumer VoIP
- Residential VoIP
- Dedicated mobile work phone
Most small businesses (or personal home offices) don’t require a complicated business phone system, and they can therefore usually suffice with a limited feature set. In some instances however, you might be able to get consumer or residential VoIP solutions (something like Google Voice) that are simple to maintain and setup.
There is always the option of getting a dedicated smartphone separate from your personal cell phone. If you only have one or two users though, this is an attractive option.
Small and Medium Sized Businesses (SMBs)
Popular Options:
- Cable Internet & VoIP package
- Virtual phone system
- Cloud phone system
These types of businesses can’t get away with skimping on a business phone system. SMBs usually have moderate call volume and depend on good call quality, reliable service, voicemail management, and scalability for new employees. Many SMBs also have remote employees and multiple office locations.
Thus, SMBs on a budget might want to consider bundling VoIP and Internet services offered by their respective cable companies. These types of business phone systems will frequently have additional features like caller ID, voicemail, and conferencing.
Virtual business phone systems, on the other hand, have higher service reliability and more advanced features when compared to consumer VoIP solutions. These types of services operate directly from your computer, smartphone, or tablet to create a virtual phone network. In addition to inbound/outbound calling, these services also have basic call routing and call handling features.
Cloud phone systems are hosted business phone systems that offer web-based user portals and can be used with compatible deskphones and/or softphone apps. Cloud phone systems are a step up in terms of features, and they have video calling, extension dialing, queues, and conference calling.
On Friday’s blog, we will take a look at the best options for large businesses and enterprises, and then we will offer a few concluding thoughts.
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