A phone system is the central hub of a business. It’s what connects employees and customers, and it’s how your company reaches out to the world. This means that you should think carefully about which type of phone system best suits your needs. And those needs will change as your business changes, so you’ll need to be prepared for future expansion too.
Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, but it all comes down to personal preference in the end because there is no one best solution for every business. The first step before deciding on a phone system is knowing what your options are. The various types of phone systems would be explained in the article
Landline Phones
This is the most basic phone system available. It requires a physical connection to a phone line with a telephone, and it will work with both analog and digital lines. Analog phones are relatively simple because, after the push of a button, the caller must wait for an operator to pick up on another line. Digital lines have more advanced features including voicemail, more line capacity, and are compatible with more types of equipment. They also offer more protection against eavesdropping.
Landline phones are great for basic phone calls, but if you want to send faxes or connect an automated attendant, it’s not your best option. It is the cheapest system on the market, though. If you have a small business with only one office, or if your employees are home-based or work from a single location, you might want to consider this option.
VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol)
This is a phone service that uses your existing internet connection for its infrastructure. A voip phone system savings unit can look small but delivers a high-quality voice service that can be adjusted for equalization or echo. It is one of the most popular phone systems on the market today because it allows businesses to make calls anywhere in the world at any time with almost no limitations (with broadband internet service).
In most cases, you must use your phone to connect to the VoIP system, but there are exceptions. VoIP has a built-in PBX that eliminates the need for a separate voicemail system, and it offers advanced features that can adapt to your business as it grows. That’s why this is one of the more popular phone solutions on the market today. The downside of VoIP is that you may experience some delay or echo during calls. It may also be difficult to configure for some companies, but recent advancements have made it easier to use.
Cell Phones
A cell phone is like a landline phone in many ways. But it doesn’t require an analog line and usually comes equipped with voicemail capabilities. It also does not require a physical connection to a phone line. As cell phones have become more popular, landline systems have been replaced with this alternative solution because it essentially does the same job as a landline but with many additional perks.
It’s much cheaper than a traditional wired system and you can take your phone almost anywhere. It also allows for features like messaging through text or e-mail, and it’s compatible with most if not all smartphone devices.
The downside of a cell phone system is that it can be costly to add additional employees to your plan. A landline may be the better option for companies with multiple locations because they do not require cell service in order for them to work and they can also be used on the train, bus, or at your office.
IP Phones
Another phone option that uses your broadband internet connection is an IP phone. Your system needs several components in order to work including a computer, VoIP services provided by your internet service provider (ISP), and the IP phone itself. It is a valuable option because it gives your business a professional image with advanced features that can be used to run reports and set up call routing for employees.
You have the most control over this system, but you also have more responsibility when compared to other types of phone systems. With many options available including telephony service providers, your business will have to research different alternatives before committing. If you are undecided, your best option may be a VoIP system instead because it is easier to use and doesn’t require as much configuration or technical knowledge.
Hosted PBX Phone Systems
Hosted PBX phone systems are essentially the same as IP phone systems, but they are typically more expensive. They work with your existing internet connection and deliver a high-quality voice for all of your employees. It is an advanced system that includes an auto attendant, call routing features that allow you to answer calls from any number or extension, fax to e-mail, and more. It is a valuable system that can be configured on-demand with different add-ons available from your service provider.
If you are already using VoIP, a hosted PBX phone system may cost less to implement than a dedicated phone system because it uses the same infrastructure as the one already installed in your business.
Virtual Phone System
A virtual phone system is also known as a “virtual receptionist.” It uses your existing broadband or wireless internet connection to route calls and delivers them directly to employees. Many systems operate in the cloud and require no capital investment on your part. You can use a virtual phone system in two ways. The first is to use a voice-over-internet protocol (VOIP) solution that delivers a high-quality digital phone experience. Some companies also use a cloud telephony service provider if they need more control over their system.
The biggest difference between a virtual phone system and other types of phone systems for business is that it does not require any physical equipment. The system is simple to use and delivers a professional touch for your business. As long as you have an internet connection, you don’t have to worry about complicated wiring or installation procedures that can cost thousands before the system is complete.
There are many different types of phone systems for business, and while some are better than others, there is a system that will work best for every company. The key to choosing any type of phone system is whether it is able to provide excellent customer service so your customers keep coming back again and again.
