IP Phone Systems: Questions to Ask When Selecting an IP Phone System for Business Communication
When researching IP phone systems for business communication needs, companies should always keep in mind the distinct differences among telephone systems that will have the greatest long-term value for the company. Due to technological limitations, varying degrees of integration and different levels of design proficiency, phone systems are far different than they may first appear to be. While comparing telephone systems, it is important to ask a few questions to ensure the company finds the best communication solution with the right features to fit its unique needs.
1. What is the phone systems’ ease of use?
When selecting an IP phone system, one of the most important features to look for is ease of use. If a telephone system requires multiple keystrokes and difficult codes to perform routine tasks such as transferring calls or retrieving voicemail, employees may be less productive and spend unnecessary time on hard-to-remember telephone procedures. In contrast, more progressive phone systems use single keys, intuitive functions and interactive on-board prompts to help users execute everyday office communication tasks quickly and easily. Businesses need powerful and flexible features in telephone systems to improve productivity, efficiency and customer service; but at the same time, the telephone system must be easy to understand and simple to use.
2. What features are provided by the IP phone system?
While many communication equipment manufacturers claim their telephone systems all have similar features, thorough research and investigation into business phone solutions conclude that seemingly comparable features are often radically different in application. Depending on a business’ unique needs, features such as live-call screening, visual voicemail or caller ID can be both helpful and important. By purchasing an office phone system with built-in, reliable features, users can more efficiently relay essential messages to other users both in and out of the office, overall helping to increase business communication.
3. Does the phone system support future upgrades?
For companies who expect growth and expansion, it is important to consider the ability for its phone system to support future technologies and business upgrades. As digital signal process (DSP) capabilities continue to radically improve call-processing efficiency, many business-phone providers are able to include more advanced features and improve existing features on IP phone systems in order to replace many common telephone hardware components with software. As a result, these business phone systems require less extensive hardware upgrades. For growing companies, phone solutions that can be upgraded without having to replace extensions or the base system offer the most cost-effective solution and return-on-investment (ROI) for office communications.
ESI is a leading manufacture of IP Phone Systems. For more information on Bussiness Phone Solutions be sure to check out their website.