Phone System Buyers Guide
Phone System Introduction
A phone system is one of the most important purchases your business can make.
The telephone is often the easiest way to reach your customers, clients, and
partners. It should also be the easiest way for them to reach you. You do not
want your important business callers to be routed incorrectly,disconnected,
or faced with a bewildering array of automated options.
There are many factors to consider when buying a telephone system. For example,
you need to get enough capacity for your current needs while planning for growth.
You will want to ensure compatibility with other equipment you already own or may
need such as voicemail, messaging on-hold, headsets, or conferencing equipment.
And you will need to choose a phone system that supports all the features your
business requires.
Buying Tips
If possible try to demo the system. Test the system before you buy. Pictures, and
feature charts can be insufficient for a purchase that will be used extensively by
every person in your office. Some areas to assess: Check how phones feel in
your hands, see how easy it is to access extensions and voicemail, and
evaluate phone and speakerphone quality.
Check voicemail compatibility. Make sure any phone system you are considering
is capable of working with a wide range of third-party voicemail systems. By
keepingyour options open, you will minimize the chance of getting stuck with an
inferior or overpriced product.
Get extra wiring installed. Avoid rewiring down the road and request that plenty of
wiring be installed when the system is first purchased. A good benchmark is to ask
for at least double the wiring you currently need. While this will add to the cost of
installation, it will really only be a fraction of the cost you will face if wires need to
be added later.
When to shop and buy. Try seeking advice from a Telecom consultant at the
beginning of the purchase. when sales targets have just been set, make your
purchase at the end of the quarter you may get a lower price that may differ
5%, or 10% off the original price.
See other helpful links below:
1. Types of phone systems See other helpful links below:
2. How to size a phone system
3. Phone System features