subject: Guide To Deciding Between Voice Mail And Answering Machine [print this page] Guide To Deciding Between Voice Mail And Answering Machine
Some people find it a difficult decision to make whether they should choose to go for voice mail or an answering machine. There is no straight formula to say which one is better. In fact, both the systems are used to take phone messages and each of them has its own advantages. Depending upon your varying needs, in some cases, you may like to stick with an answering machine while in some other cases, you may like to replace the system with a voice mail service. The objective is to choose the one that suits your specific needs the best.
Businesses With Many Extension Phones
The voice mail service is a much better option than answering machine for businesses where there are lots of extension phones. In this method, the voice messages are recorded and stored in a computerized way.
Screening Your Calls
The answering machine makes it easy for you to screen your calls. Voice mail services usually do not provide this feature. In order to screen the calls, you will have to install a called ID in that case. Answering machine makes a better choice for a situation where you do not want to answer the call yourself. In that case, the machine will answer the call on your behalf.
Procedure
If we compare the procedure of answering machines with that of voice mails, we find that the latter is less complicated. Though even answering machines these days also offer simplicity to operate, but voice mail service is further easier to use. In most cases, all you have to do is to connect the voice mailbox and push the number.
Cost
Of course, price is one of the most important factors. Therefore, do not forget to compare the cost. If we talk about the upfront investment, answering machines prove to be costlier. However, here it is important for you to understand that there are no monthly charges associated with them. On the other hand, a voice mail service does not require a high upfront cost, but there are monthly charges that you have to pay.
Reliability
The answering machine may not work when the power is out or damaged. Voice mails prove to be more reliable in such a case, as they work even when there is no power. They also prove to be very helpful when you are busy on another call.
If you want to access messages from remote locations, voice mail service is undoubtedly a much better option than answering machines. Some answering machines also offer this feature, but the process is much easier with voice mails.
