PBX System Versus VoIP System: Should You Switch?

Your PBX system takes up space and requires regular maintenance. Over time, your IT team may spend more time fixing the network instead of monitoring it for security issues or improving it for better communications. Although migrating from a legacy system to a digital PBX is difficult, the right provider will support your team every step of the way. Get help converting your standard phone network to a VoIP phone system. Small business VoIP systems require less infrastructure, and your provider takes care of updates, security issues, and maintenance.

Benefits of VoIP for Small Business

Small businesses gain a competitive advantage by using a VoIP system. Previously, customer-friendly features were only available to large companies. With Voice over IP technology, even small business owners can consider themselves global competitors. Benefits of VoIP include:

• VoIP phone systems include numerous features
• VoIP setup provides flexibility for growth
• VoIP systems for small businesses are affordable
• One of the benefits of VoIP is data access
• Business IP systems improve customer experience

VoIP phone systems include numerous features

With Voice over IP service, you don't have to go without standard offerings like call waiting or call forwarding. However, you can use a variety of new features designed to help small business owners do more with less. For example, some plans offer options such as:

• Voicemail to email
• Receive and reply to text messages
• Conference calls and video calls
• Call monitoring and recording

VoIP business phones provide flexibility for growth

Changing locations or opening a new store used to be a hassle. With VoIP, you can enjoy voice service from anywhere. If you add remote employees or send your team on the road, Voice over IP lets you access customer data from anywhere, on any device. With flexible communication, it's easy to keep up with changes. Plus, you can upgrade your service without expensive infrastructure upgrades.

Is VoIP cheaper than regular business connections?

Whether you're starting small with existing equipment or outfitting an entire contact center, VoIP is right for your small business. Voice over IP services cost much less than a standard landline and offer more features. You pay less because:

• Startup and installation costs are very low
• Low to no maintenance costs
• Lower rates for local or domestic calls
• International calling packages

Enterprise IP systems improve customer experience

How your customers perceive your company plays a big role in customer acquisition and retention. VoIP technology helps your company project the image of a larger company. Fast response times, multi-channel communication, and advanced features build trust in your brand. Greater credibility leads to better customer reviews and more sales. For a people-first approach, VoIP offers the technology to take control of every customer interaction.

VoIP Phone Systems: FAQs

Although Voice over IP technology has been around for a long time, small business owners have many questions about real-world scenarios. There are many questionable providers in the VoIP market, and not all of them offer the same level of service. That's why research is critical to any decision on your VoIP phone system and service. The most common question business owners ask is:

Is the Voice over IP network reliable?

The reliability of Voice over IP depends on two things: your available bandwidth and your provider. You need to make sure you have enough bandwidth to keep voice, video conferencing, and web applications running smoothly. With the right connections, business IP systems can provide the same or better call quality than standard phone systems. However, not all network providers offer the same consistency. Before choosing a provider, be sure to ask about their system's downtime. Many VoIP providers report this as a percentage of uptime. Although there are cheaper Voice over IP options, a company with solid reviews and a trustworthy reputation will protect your business from communications disasters.

Can you save money with a VoIP phone system?

Yes, VoIP is cheaper than a standard business line because it uses your existing network and internet connection. You don't need any of the extra hardware or new infrastructure required for a PBX system. When it comes to equipment, you can find a lot of affordable options. Many providers offer free or inexpensive adapters and softphones. Others allow you to buy or lease equipment. BYOD services allow you to start using VoIP with any device that connects to an internet service. Additionally, you'll spend less on maintenance and upgrades in the long run. If you want to add more lines or change your business location, your provider can update your service in minutes without having to change any infrastructure.

Are there any risks in changing your VoIP phone setup?

With the right VoIP provider, the risks are minimized. Transitioning your team and adapting to new software may require a bit of a learning curve. However, your Voice over IP provider should offer support services so you can get started right away. Some considerations:

• Do you have enough bandwidth to support high-quality VoIP phone calls?
• Do you need adapters for older devices like desk phones?
• Should you add security measures to your internet line?

For most small business owners, setting up VoIP is as simple as signing up for the service. Once you log in, you're connected and can access your VoIP from any IP-enabled device. Those with older systems or advanced requirements can benefit from additional support from their provider.

What happens if the power goes out?

In today's fully connected office environment, a power outage is a crisis. You may not be able to process credit cards, connect with remote team members, or access data. Fortunately, your VoIP provider may have a solution to avoid disaster. Power outage options include:

• Automatically forward calls to mobile devices during a power outage
• Use automated phone services to inform customers of expected wait times
• Rely on backup power for your VoIP phone system

Like many common crisis planning and business stability issues, maintaining functionality in the event of an unexpected event such as a power outage or loss of internet connectivity requires planning and forethought. Take the time before each scenario occurs to imagine and think ahead of time about how you would respond. This type of preparation reduces hesitation in stressful situations and allows you to react faster. Whether it's redundant systems or emergency landlines, you'll be prepared for whatever comes your way.

Is the VoIP Phone System Scalable?

One of the main selling points of a VoIP phone system is its scalability. You don't need any infrastructure to add new lines. When you relocate your company, your phone numbers and VoIP capabilities move with you. Adding remote workers, new features, or additional devices is simple because all you need to do is make a call or customize your service from your dashboard.

What's more, new users have immediate access to unified communications, call routing, and all the additional features that a VoIP phone system supports. The key to implementing an effective VoIP system for your small business is working with an internet service provider who understands your needs now and in the future. When you work with the right provider, you'll get a solution you can count on for years to come.