Business Phone Systems Basics

Find the small business phone systems that suit your business needs

By Amy Lynn

Understanding business phone systems basics, like how many lines and extensions you need, is an important part of making sure your business is able to accommodate your employees' and customers' needs. A phone system that is too small may turn customers away, while a system that is much too large for your company will be a waste of money.

There are many options for small business phone systems, and the type of system you choose, such as a PBX (private branch exchange) system, a KSU (key system unit) or a VoIP (voice over IP), will depend on the number of employees you have and your specific business needs. Consider the following when making a decision about the business phone service that is right for you:

1. Get price comparisons and determine the type of system needed for your business phone service.

2. Find business phone systems that fit the current size of your business and that can grow with you as well.

3. Look for combined Internet and phone services.

Find the best telephone systems for small business needs

Phone systems for small businesses vary from single line systems with updated features to systems that can accommodate many employees and remote locations. It is important to research the different phone system options available and choose the one that fits your specific business.
Try: Comcast offers a downloadable product and price comparison of providers of business phone systems. Read the phone systems guide on Resource Nation and get free price quotes for the type of business phone system that best suits your needs.

Use business phone system suppliers that will accommodate a growing business

Every small business owner is looking to expand their business, and the flexibility of the phone system supplier is important to that expansion. You need to have the ability to add phone lines or remote locations, as well as easily upgrade your package altogether, if necessary.
Try: Packet8 offers different packages for all levels of small businesses. AltiGen Communications can add on to your existing package to accommodate growing businesses.

Combine office phone systems with Internet service

In this day and age, Internet service is as important as phone service to small businesses. Some companies offer combined high-speed Internet and phone services that may prove to a be a better deal than purchasing them separately.
Try: Telovations offers small business phone systems packages that include high-speed Internet and 24-hour technical support. AT&T Intellectual Property offers several different office phone systems bundle packages that offer unlimited long distance and DSL Internet services.

If you own a small business, look for business telephone systems that include technical support in case of problems. If your phone or Internet service shuts down, it is important to you, your employees and your customers that you get back up and running as quickly as possible.