Making the Most of Virtual PBX

How to choose the right virtual PBX system

Making the most of virtual PBX means getting the features your business needs at the best possible price. Virtual private branch exchange (PBX) systems manage all your calls and voice mail, so that your company doesn't have to invest in equipment. It can save time and money since it saves you from supporting, maintaining and replacing phone system hardware and software. You also don't have to worry about having a secure space for the large equipment usually associated with PBX systems.

Because of advancements in technology, virtual PBX systems often offer many of the same features as on-site systems. They can also usually be customized to meet your business needs and number of users, so you don't have to pay for services you don't need. To make the most of hosted PBX systems:

1. Compare a variety of virtual PBX systems before making a choice.

2. Find a virtual PBX system that offers low rates for small businesses.

3. Get a system with advanced features that save time and give your company a professional presence.

 

Pay only for the virtual PBX services that you use

If you have few users or mobile employees, save money by purchasing a simple system. You'll only pay for the features you use and can upgrade later.
Try: Junction Networks offers low monthly rates and flat fees, so you pay for only the calls you make or receive and the features used. Virtual PBX offers a range of services, starting with a low-cost system for offices with only a few users.

Compare virtual PBX providers

With so many choices available, having a guide to virtual PBX providers can be helpful. PBX guides allow you to do a side-by-side comparison of the features and prices of providers.
Try: Hosted PBX Guide gives brief summaries of industry leaders in virtual PBX systems. PBXCompare consolidates information about the top providers of PBX software services.

Create a professional first impression with business hosted PBX services

Many PBX hosting providers offer features like professionally recorded greetings, music on hold and virtual or live receptionists. Features like these can make even a small home office look like a large, established company.
Try: Onebox Receptionist from j2 Global Communications automatically answers, manages and routes all calls. It includes a toll-free number, studio recorded greeting and menus and recorded voices of receptionists. MyBusinessAssistant offers 24-hour live receptionist services that can be combined with their virtual PBX service.

Get convenient voice mail options from an online PBX provider

The ability to listen and respond to voice mail messages in a timely manner is important. When choosing a PBX provider, make sure it's easy to get your voice mail.
Try: Innoport from Intellicom allows users to retrieve voice mail by phone, email or through a web browser. With eVoice, also from j2 Global Communications, voice mail messages are sent to your email inbox and you can listen to them using your computer speakers.

Get free advanced features with virtual PBX software

Several companies offer shareware that allows you to create your own virtual PBX system. Using only a computer or server and existing phone lines, you can set up call center management for free..
Try: Call Conductor Virtual PBX Software, available at Download, allows your business to set up a call center environment using a computer and VoIP technology. Axon is a virtual PBX that can be downloaded from TopShareware and is designed to manage calls within a business or call center environment. Both are free to download.

 

• Remember that most virtual PBX solutions use VoIP to connect. If your Internet connection goes down, you'll probably lose your call functionality.

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