Why Business Communication Matters
Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, allows voice communication to be carried over IP networks. Business VoIP systems can provide extensions, call routing, voicemail, reporting and remote-user functions.
Business Phone System Options
Use Network Infrastructure
Depending on design, businesses can use their IP network to support voice services, reducing separate telephone infrastructure.
Support Remote Employees
Employees can use supported applications or devices from different locations, subject to secure configuration.
Centralize Multiple Locations
Businesses with several offices can manage extensions and call routing through centralized systems.
Scale More Easily
Adding users or changing extensions can be simpler with IP-based systems, depending on the platform.
Features to Consider
Auto Attendant
An automated greeting can route callers to departments and provide a more organized customer experience.
Call Transfer and Queues
Call transfer and queue functions help teams manage customer calls systematically.
Voicemail and Remote Access
Voicemail and supported mobile or desktop clients can help employees stay connected when they are away from the office.
Reporting
Call reports can provide useful information about call volumes and operational patterns.
How to Choose the Right System
Count current users and identify departments that need dedicated numbers or shared call handling. Consider expected growth, multiple branches, remote employees and integration requirements.
Ask providers about installation, licensing, hardware, call routing, support, security, backup and expansion costs.
Conclusion
The right business phone system should be selected around communication requirements rather than a technology label. PABX, IP PABX and hosted VoIP can all be suitable (see our PABX vs VoIP comparison) depending on the environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many modern VoIP platforms provide functions traditionally associated with PABX systems, including extensions, routing and voicemail.
Many modern systems can connect multiple offices through IP-based communication.
