Whether you’re looking to replace an existing phone line, want a new business phone system, or are considering a virtual phone service, finding the best new system fit for your business is essential.
The business phone system you choose can significantly impact your company’s productivity and success. As technology continues to evolve, the options available for business phone systems have become more diverse and complex.
With so many choices, it can take time to determine the right phone system for your company. This article will explore what to look for in a business phone system and the best options for different businesses, including offices, remote workers, and small businesses.
What are the different types of phone systems available for businesses?
There are a few phone options, whether you’re looking for a small business phone system, one you can scale, or a phone service for a large company.
Let’s look at what’s available to help you choose the right business phone system.
- Landline systems: Traditional phone systems that use copper wires to transmit calls.
- Private Branch Exchange (PBX systems): In-house phone systems that handle all internal and external calls within an organisation.
- Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP systems): VoIP phone systems that use the internet to transmit calls, allowing for remote communication and integration with other software tools.
- Cloud-based phone systems: Phone systems hosted by a third-party provider and accessible through the internet.
- Virtual phone systems: Phone systems designed for remote or virtual teams, offering advanced features such as call forwarding and voicemail.
- Mobile systems: Phone systems that use mobile phones as the primary devices, allowing for mobility and remote communication.
Each phone system has its strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice for your business will depend on your specific requirements and goals.
What Should I Look for in a Business Phone System?
When choosing a business phone system, it’s important to consider the unique needs of your business.
Here are some key factors to consider to ensure you choose the right phone system for your business:
- Scalability: Ensure your chosen system can grow with your business and adapt to changing needs.
- Features: Consider the features you require, such as call forwarding, voicemail, conference calls, and more.
- Integration: Look for a system that integrates easily with other tools and software you use, such as your CRM, email, and calendar.
- Mobility: Consider whether you need a system that supports mobile and remote workers, and if so, how it handles these requirements.
- Reliability: Ensure the system is reliable and can provide clear, consistent call quality.
- Cost: Consider both the upfront cost and the ongoing costs associated with the system, including hardware, maintenance, and support.
- Customer support: Look for a system with responsive and helpful customer support to ensure you receive the assistance you need to keep your system running smoothly.
What is the best phone system for an office?
The best phone system for an office will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the business. Several options are available, including traditional landline systems, hosted PBX systems, and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems.
Traditional landline systems, also known as PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network), are reliable and have been used for many years. However, they can be expensive, inflexible, and don’t offer more advanced features. More importantly, Phone companies aim to switch off copper systems by the end of 2025.
Hosted PBX systems are similar to traditional landline systems but are managed and hosted by a third-party provider. This can be a cost-effective option, but it may still need the advanced features of other phone systems.
VoIP systems use the internet to transmit calls, allowing for remote communication and integration with other software tools. This makes them ideal for offices with in-house and remote employees and those needing advanced features such as call forwarding, voicemail, and conference calling.
In addition, many VoIP systems offer scalable plans, allowing businesses to add or remove users as their office grows. They also integrate with other software tools, such as email and calendars, to improve productivity and efficiency.
Which is the best phone system for remote working?
When it comes to remote working, the best phone system offers flexibility and accessibility, regardless of location.
VoIP systems are a great choice for remote working. They allow employees to make and receive calls, send and receive messages, and participate in video conferencing from anywhere with an internet connection.
VoIP systems can be accessed from laptops, smartphones, and other mobile devices and are easy to set up and use. This makes it easy for remote workers to stay connected and be productive, even when they’re not in the office.
What is the best phone system for a small business?
When choosing the best phone system for a small business, VoIP is often a strong contender. It’s ideal for small businesses with in-house and remote employees and those looking to scale up or down in the future.
VoIP systems are also easy to set up and use and offer integration with other software tools to improve productivity and efficiency. They provide scalable plans, allowing businesses to add or remove users as their office grows. They are often cost-effective, with lower upfront and ongoing costs than traditional phone systems.
When comparing VoIP with other phone systems options, such as conventional landline and hosted PBX systems, it is crucial to weigh the specific needs and budget of the small business.
Choosing the right type of system for your telephone needs.
Choosing the right business phone system is essential for businesses of all sizes. The most important considerations are the features you need, the size of your workforce, and your budget.
Ultimately, the best phone system for your business will be the one that best meets your needs, budget, and goals.
Want to discuss which is the right phone system for you? Contact us about Kingstar Voice.
Article authored by Laura Bean Creative Little World
