subject: Explore alternative business phone systems and see how you can save time and money! [print this page] Explore alternative business phone systems and see how you can save time and money!
Even as ever more business operations head online, telephone calls are still a core part of the daily routine for many companies, and can prove to be a significant expense. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to trim these overheads as well as improve your business' efficiency and productivity - particularly when switching to a phone service delivered over the internet.
The first step in choosing your new business phone system is to evaluate your current usage and needs. If your business doesn't make very many phone calls, or you only make calls to local numbers and other contacts covered by your tariff, upgrading your phone system may not be necessary. But even in this idyllic scenario, you could still be missing out on the advanced features and business tools that can add value to your organization for a small fee.
Finding cheaper rates on long-distance or international calls is a top priority of many businesses looking to upgrade their phone systems, and that's where switching to an online phone service could yield substantial savings. When you install VoIP software throughout your business, employees at all levels will be able to make free audio and video calls, and when you make use of online collaboration tools, these calls don't have to eat into valuable working time either.
These tools include file sharing and video conferencing, allowing multiple workers to access the same content simultaneously, without the need to organize time-consuming meetings or sort through file attachments. This type of collaboration is only available when using business phone systems connected to the internet, which is why ever more companies are embracing the new technology and replacing their outdated phone systems on local networks.
Online phone services are also able to offer all the tools of standard phone services, such as voicemail and call forwarding. You won't necessarily have to make calls by speaking into the computer either, when purchasing headsets or handsets that replicate the 'traditional' phone experience.
Cutting unnecessary costs wherever possible is a chief concern in the current economic climate, and despite the obvious benefits of online tools and communication features, you should still be wary about signing up for extras you don't need. When you customize your ideal business phone system, you and your employees will be able to instantly enjoy improved communication and collaboration, without incurring any extra cost. You may even be able to cut down on travel expenses when hosting conferences and meetings online, rather than sending employees overseas.
