The Top 3 Phone System Solutions Businesses are Moving To

Scott Starost • September 12, 2016

Thanks to advances in technology, there are now more phone systems to choose from than ever before. Even so, business owners are turning to certain ones more than others in order to cut costs and streamline operations. Here are the top 3 phone system solutions that business owners these days are moving to.

#1. Hosted, Cloud-Based Phone Systems

  A cloud-based VoIP phone service is one that is delivered via the Internet. This type of phone system does not require the traditional hardware that a Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) would, and can therefore save you a great deal when it comes to setup and maintenance. Your data is stored on a secure server, eliminating the need for an answering machine and tons of wiring. It is also very quick and easy to set up, and will provide you with advanced features such as SMS, call forwarding, and voicemail, all of which can even be accessed remotely.

#2. Phone Services that are Integrated into CRM or Sales SaaS Solution

  More and more VoIP phone systems are becoming integrated with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) or Software as a Service (SaaS) programs. This type of phone system is often used to help resolve sales issues, provide more timely contact with leads, and automatically log calls. Another benefit is that it automates many follow-up notification calls, thereby freeing up your employees to better serve the customer that is in front of them. The instant logging of calls also provides greater accountability, making it easier to identify and solve issues. Many businesses who have switched to this type of phone service claim that they have noticed better revenue as a result of operating more efficiently.

#3. IP-Based Phone Systems On-Premise that Allow for Integration with Video, Chat, CRMs

More businesses than ever these days are taking advantage of video and chat features to help them save money. So it’s no surprise that on-premise PBX phone systems that allow people to integrate with video, chat, and even CRM software is becoming increasingly popular. An on-premise system will provide you with greater control over your day-to-day operations, yet does not require you to move from your current carrier. There is no need to maintain lines, and service can easily be routed to a mobile device in the event there is an Internet outage.

How to Choose

Deciding which one of these three phone systems is right for you, largely depends on the type of business you operate. For example, auto dealerships often desire systems that are integrated with CRM or SaaS because they can better help them manage leads. Small businesses with remote employees may prefer hosted, cloud-based systems, while companies that are expecting to grow might want an on-premise system. Be sure to weigh the costs, features, and benefits of each type carefully before making your decision.

Modern PBX and VoIP phone systems now provide you with more options than ever before. If it is time to upgrade your existing service, you may want to consider one of these three types.

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