Top 7 things you should consider when buying a business phone system
Upgrading your business phone system? Moved to new premises?
Before you buy another expensive big grey box to put on your wall, here are my top 7 things that every business owner should consider when buying a business phone system……
1. Will it reduce your call costs?
By embracing new technologies such as Voice over IP (VoIP), a new phone system should enable you to dramatically cut line rental and call costs, making your business more profitable. Additional lines can be added for little or no cost to you and overall call charges can be significantly reduced.
2. Will it give you extra features?
A new phone system should always have a good range of features to help your business be more efficient. Ideally you should get more features that your old phone system had, so that return on investment is as high as possible. Many old types of telephone system dont have call queing, voicemail, or call recording, so its important to check that you will get all the features your business needs to operate effectively.
3. Will it give you flexible working?
Ever had that call from a member of staff saying they cant get into the office because of the bad weather/traffic/accident etc? With flexible working, your phone system should allow staff to make and receive calls from home or a remote location, so they can still continue to operate – even if they are not physically in your office.
4. Is it expandable?
Does the system allow you to add more users and lines without purchasing extra add-ons? So if your business grows, your phone system should also grow to accomodate the extra staff?
5. Is it upgradable?
Can the phone system be upgraded during it’s lifespan? Perhaps adding additional features or hardware which makes your business more efficient?
6. Can it be integrated with your computer systems?
Integrating your phone system and computer system allows your business to become more efficient. For example, if you run a CRM system, it could pop up with the caller’s details before you answer the phone, so that you have all the information to hand. Click to dial facilities allow you to dial a number by clicking it on your screen, and paperless faxing can enable you to send a fax directly from your desktop application without printing it first.
7. Will it help you generate more business for your company?
Probably the most important aspect of purchasing any new phone system is whether it will make your company more profitable! There are several ways to do this: Firstly by utilising marketing on hold messages, you can tell customers about your products and services when they are on hold, potentially creating cross-sell opportunities. Secondly, by using call reporting and analytics you can make sure that calls are never lost, or if someone hangs up a call before getting answered you can call them back. Finally, by spreading the cost of your phone system by paying a subscription (opex) model, you can free up cashflow within your company too!
Want to know more?
We specialise in providing phone systems which provide benefits to your business in cost savings, features and revenue generation. Why not call us on 0161 711 1100 about your business and we can advise you on how a modern telephone system can make you more efficient and more profitable!
