Manufacturers of communications equipment keep raising the bar for user-friendliness and features that we never knew we needed, but become an essential part of business. Paging systems have also become more sophisticated, allowing medical personnel to get where they're needed fast or restaurant patrons to relax comfortably while they're waiting for a table.

Most businesses find that they will need to periodically assess their need for personal communication equipment. The most popular cellular phone providers offer products from different cell phone manufacturers, while pager manufacturers often provide their own support and can design their systems to meet your business needs.

Look for manufacturers of cellular & paging communications equipment that give you the most value for your dollar and have a strong reputation in the industry.

1. Research manufacturers of cellular and paging equipment to decide what's best for your business.

2. Buy only what you need from cellular equipment suppliers. Consider the fact that feature-laden cellular phones may add distractions when all you want is communication for your employees.

3. Look for suppliers of communications equipment that offer technical support as well as equipment.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find manufacturers of communications equipment that cater to your business

Manufacturers of personal paging equipment can tailor their equipment for your business needs, whether you need to establish an effective nurse call system for your nursing staff or provide vital communication services for industry. On the other hand, many cell phone manufacturers do not always work directly with the customers, and you may need to work with a different service provider to find the equipment that best suits your business.

I recommend: Among pager manufacturers, Commtech Wireless or Visiplex PageLink provides solutions for a wide range of fields, including health care, emergency services, casinos or restaurants and hotels. Ericsson will analyze your business needs and design a plan that works with your needs.

Choose a cellular equipment supplier that matches your business needs

There's a big difference between business cell phones and personal cell phones. For business purposes, you probably don't need a phone that functions as an MP3 player. But you may be interested in a phone that offer text messaging with a handy keyboard (albeit tiny) or models that connects to the Internet with access to vital weather radar updates.

I recommend: LG is well-known among manufacturers of cellular equipment. Sanyo Pro Series offers the Direct Connect walkie-talkie feature, Bluetooth technology and global positioning services.

Insist on support from manufacturers of wireless phones and paging systems

You would hate to purchase communication equipment only to find out later that you don't have access to a good service plan to help you solve technical issues. When evaluating cell phones or paging systems, make sure that you're dealing with a company with a track record for good service.

I recommend: With most cell phones, you will be dealing with a different cell phone provider than the cell phone manufacturer. Verizon and T-Mobile are two companies that are trying to listen to their customers and improve their customer relations. Motorola is a provider of cell phones and pagers and offers technical support for users.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Make sure you read the fine print on any contract you're ready to sign from manufacturers of cellular and paging equipment. It's easy to miss hidden charges and free trial periods for extras that can add up to big costs later on.