What Types Of Telephone Systems Are There?

Trying to find the perfect match between your business and a telephone service can seem like a no-brainer, but in terms of what is best for your business it is always good to have a second look and really make sure that you're getting the best bang for your buck. Unfortunately, the telephone systems that have been used in the past within offices is slowly becoming obsolete. This is because there's a bunch of new systems that can be implemented with newer technology to make doing business much easier, without the hassles of older systems that have plagued offices for so long.

Instead of playing phone tag with an important client, always getting a voice mail instead of a live person and not being able to take phone calls while out of the office, there are new systems that can allow you to get rid of all of this--well, for the most part. You can manage your phone calls much easier with a newer system, although completely eliminating phone tag is still in the works. So, which telephone system is best for your business? When it comes to cost and quality, which phone system is your match? Here are some telephone systems to consider.

Types of Telephone Systems

Versatile VoIP Phones

Voice-over-IP, or also known as VoIP, relies obviously on an Internet connection in order to work best. Compared to all of the telephone systems out there today, this one is probably the most popular and common these days. This is because it incorporates the technology of today's office by allowing staff to take phone calls and listen to their voice mail while out of the office by being connected to a wireless smartphone on top of being connected with the network at the office. 

Because it is on an IP network and not a "traditional" phone line, this also provides a much clearer reception while on the phone, instead of a sometimes unreliable or spotty land line
phone that can age much faster.

Common Key System Unit (KSU)ey

This used to be the king of phone systems out there, but VoIP has since taken the place for most businesses. Regardless, a key system unit--or KSU--can still be found among smaller offices because it is cheap and does the job with a smaller switchboard of employees and lines. Normally, this can support a minimum of a ten employee office easily. This is also a cheaper method for businesses trying to save money in an area that a lot of offices spend a lot of unnecessary money.

The clarity and reliability between KSU and VoIP is comparable, although most professionals would argue that VoIP is marginally better and will be a better investment in the long run. This entirely depends on preference, however.

Enterprise Private Branch Exchange (PBX)

These types of telephone systems are normally reserved for much bigger pools of employees on an enterprise level. Private branch exchange, or PBX, is normally operated by a huge sales team that is taking on numerous calls. It is also perfect for a customer service department that's on a much bigger scale. Regardless, it is best for those "big" projects and for a budget that doesn't matter much about trying to cut corners.

Despite all of this, PBX systems are slowly being replaced with VoIP systems because of their ease of use and cost. However, PBX systems can still be viable for larger offices looking to have a full suite of features for their sales or other calling teams.

Thinking of upgrading your phone system or have any questions on what's available? Contact us, we'll be glad to go over your options to help select the best small business phone system for you.