No two businesses are alike. Therefore, it makes sense that what works best for one company may not work for another. This holds true when selecting a Business Phone System as well. There are numerous types of systems to choose from, each with their own unique pros and cons. Like with anything, you need to consider each system carefully before making a purchase. Below, we’ve listed a few of the most prevalent types of systems along with some of their pros and cons.
VoIP
VoIP became a popular option for businesses once broadband Internet became prevalent. It works by transforming sound into digital data. This data is then transferred over IP (your Internet connection).
Pros:
- Less expensive than traditional solutions
- Free long-distance calling
- Flexibility: employees can send calls to mobile phones and receive messages from outside the office
- Can combine VoIP with unified communications and video conferencing
- Scalability
Cons:
- Dependent on Internet connection
- Not enough bandwidth may cause quality issues
PBX Landline Phone Systems
PBX Landline Systems are simply a landline phone system that is supported by your phone company. Landlines use a copper wire that your phone company owns. However, if you want extra features like call transfer and different extensions, you need a PBX (Private Branch Exchange). Some businesses prefer how simple and uncomplicated a landline system is.
Pros:
- During an emergency they can be more reliable
- You don’t need new landline wiring
Cons:
- Can cost more than an IP system
- It is not simple to add extensions and lines
- No free long-distance calling
- No video conferencing
- All calls must be made at your office via the landline
Hosted Voice Phone Systems
Hosted Voice Systems have the ability to transfer storage from the server at your office to the cloud hosted offsite. This is beneficial because your office has the advantages of both the cloud and a Business Phone System.
Pros:
- Scalability
- Is not difficult to add extensions and lines
- Mobility: Team members have the ability to access the system from anywhere
- Hosted Systems can combine with Unified Communications
- A data center maintains your server
- Auto backups in the event of disaster
Cons:
- Dependent on internet service
If you have any questions regarding Business Phone Systems, please contact Advanced Communication Systems today at 800-750-3624. Please feel free to also follow us on Facebook.