I wanted first to introduce myself, my name is Steve, and I am the owner of Key Communications. I have worked in the telecommunications industry for more than three decades providing technical consulting for business phone systems. I have worked with hundreds of companies helping them buy a Business Office Telephone System that fits their needs. This series of articles are going to be essentially a buyer's guide on how to purchase a Business Office Telephone System.
Business Office Telephone System

 

Undertaking the task of purchasing a new telephone system may be necessary, but it may not. It is necessary for the business owner or manager to do a thorough analysis of your business needs. There is a lot of hype about going to a cloud based phone system today, and in some cases, it is not the perfect fit. Most business telephone solutions are long term commitments, so any mistakes you make will live with you for a while. Choosing the wrong type of system with the wrong features will end up being a costly mistake. The best way to develop the criteria of what phone system will work for your company is to ask the right questions based on needs. Here are some example questions to ask.

 

1. Why are you looking for a new phone system?

What is driving you to look for a new system for your business? In most cases, there is a painful problem that needs to be resolved.

 

2. Is your technology outdated?

Lack of support, parts and service on your system may point to the need to update to a newer system.

 

3. Is your current phone system costing your more money than a new one?

After a new system is put into place, the monthly cost may be cheaper than maintaining the old obsolete system.

 

4. Have you been told you need VOIP?

Everyone is familiar with VOIP (voice over internet protocol) or more commonly known as a cloud phone system. These days everyone is locating their phone systems into the cloud, but buyer beware! The cloud is not for every business. In some cases, a cloud system will end up being more expensive than your traditional on-premise phone system.

5. Is your company in a state of growth?

You May be thinking you need to upgrade due to the increase in employees and your current system can handle the additions.

6. Are you moving your business to a new location?

When you are moving to a new location, it may be a good time to look at buying a Buy A Business Office Telephone System.

 

7. Does your decision have a time frame?

Customers that buy a business phone system can take anywhere from 2-3 weeks to several months to buy a system. It is important to remember that you should never buy based on what you want. You should assess your companies needs and add the wants on later.

 

8. Determine what specific criteria you need for your phone system

Most phone systems offer the similar features. Regardless of the features, you should keep in mind these things:

  • • What is the upfront price?
  • • What is the total cost to own it?
  • • What is the reputation of the vendor?
  • • Is this a good fit for your business?
  • • What is the reputation of the brand?
  • • Do you have a budget for this project?

This is one of the most challenging pieces of information to part with for most companies. However, having a budget in place beforehand will often save you time and effort. It helps the vendor and you to stick to the budget and not spend too much that makes you feel buyers regret. As you can see, there are many factors to consider when buying a business phone system. Ensure that you have a game plan in place before you head out shopping for your new phone system.

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