If you’re considering an upgrade from a landline to a private branch exchange (PBX), the time is right. Communications technologies have been quickly advancing, and there are a lot of cost-effective choices with long lists of features. Take a look at the basic descriptions of PBX solutions now available:
IP PBX: Internet protocol (IP) PBX allows you to leave your copper wiring behind and instead access phone service through an ethernet line. This approach offers some advantages, including the ability to continue making and receiving calls during a natural disaster that wipes out traditional phone capabilities. Likewise, if your Internet is down, calls can still go through on the traditional phone line.
With IP PBX, your calls go through to the provider using a gateway card, which converts the calls and faxes between the IP network and the public network.
An IP PBX solution requires you to shoulder the initial expense of a server and the gateway cards, but you’ll tend to enjoy lower monthly costs, scalability and greater control over the system.
Hosted PBX: The other alternative is hosted PBX, which is managed and maintained by a service provider. You pay a monthly fee that’s based on how many minutes you’ll use, plus the specific features you’d like to access. There are several advantages that come with hosted PBX, including the ability to move your phones easily, a lower initial startup cost and the elimination of any maintenance costs.
Like IP PBX, hosted PBX is also easy to scale up and down as your business demands, and the lack of any troubleshooting or maintenance means your IT team can focus on other tasks.
One of the key benefits of any PBX system is the ability to present a professional face to the public, no matter what size your company. Here are some other advantages that PBX offers:
Cost-effectiveness: A PBX solution offers a low monthly invoice, with little investment in terms of hardware or maintenance, making it an affordable option for every size enterprise.
Features: Items including digital receptionist, call recording, call waiting and call transfer allow you access to all the tools you need to serve your customers and create a satisfying experience for callers.
Scalability: As your business grows or your needs for specific features change, a PBX solution can easily be adjusted to meet your requirements and your budget.
Upgrading communications systems is an exciting investment because it supports a better customer experience and allows your enterprise to remain competitive. For more information on choosing between IP PBX and hosted PBX, contact us at Enterprise Visions. We help you choose the solution that provides the features you require while also respecting your budgetary needs.