While different types of businesses have varying needs in phone systems, there are certain qualities in phone systems that are needed regardless business type. For example, all businesses want to know they're getting the best value for the money, and most require phone systems that are easy to use, reliable and provide the best level of service. In addition, customer service support from the phone system provider is also an important factor for many businesses. While there are several phone system companies to choose from, the top three are currently Nextiva, RingCentral Professional and 8x8. Each of these companies offer phone systems that include computer integration, mobile access and a variety of calling features, and also meet the necessary requirements to be a top contender as far as reliablity and pricing. These three systems exceed standards in many categories, providing the best overall quality and value. Below are the most commonly asked questions about business phone systems, to help you choose the one that's right for your business needs.
The most important features are whichever ones allow the employees to conduct their business best while using the phone system. This can mean different things for different companies. For example, for employees who travel often for work, having the feature of a mobile app is a very beneficial tool.
Reliability is very important for a top phone system. Each of these three phone system companies ranked very high with reliability. The Nextiva reported uptime of 99.999 percent last year. The 8x8 reported uptime of 99.997 percent and no major outages in the past five years. RingCentral proved to be reliable as well, though not ranked as highly.
Both the 8x8 and Nextiva allow for extensions and dedicated phone lines. The Nextiva also has a feature for employees who work remotely from other locations or from home to be on the same phone system. While the RingCentral Professional only uses extensions, it can be upgraded to the RingCentral Business which includes dedicated phone lines.
This depends entirely on the type of system that is purchased. One of the benefits of each of the three top VoIP phone system companies is that they are all relatively simple to install and begin using. All the Nextiva and 8x8 systems require to get going are high-speed internet access and IP phones. Since RingCentral is a virtual system, there is nothing to setup.
The Nextiva is an excellent choice for both the office and call center environments. In fact, this one system is robust enough to handle both office and call center demands for the same company. While additional features may need to be purchased for a call center, no additional equipment is required.
Most VoIP business phone system companies do require some sort of contract to be signed. However, as with most things, contracts are negotiable. Nextiva will reduce the monthly service fees for companies who agree to a three-year contract. RingCentral Professional does allow for companies to do a month-to-month contract; however, the price is heavily discounted for those willing to sign on for at least a year.
A mobile app allows its users to make and receive calls, check voicemail, send and receive faxes, and even communicate via instant message with co-workers while on the go. An employee’s business line can be utilized from a smartphone at any location, yet give the appearance that the call is coming from the office.
The most important factors should be based on the individual company’s needs and budget. Small companies may not need as complex of a VoIP phone system as larger ones may need. Reliability, reputation, calling features that meet the demands of the company, and excellent customer service are all things to consider.