Compare quotes & offers for Business Phone Systems

Decide who will use your business phone service, what they will use it for and where. List employees and their locations (on-site, remote or hybrid). Identify specific communications requirements, such as the ability to host video conferences or share files. Also, determine which team members need hardware, such as desk phones or headsets.

Think about the differences between phone systems and determine whether you want an on-premise or cloud-based service. Estimating short- and long-term costs for each approach is a good idea. Remember to factor in phone equipment and international calling expenses.

Next, go through user reviews on third-party sites and the Better Business Bureau. Look for guides that break down differences among services. Also, request recommendations from professional groups. After researching solutions, develop a list of potential vendors.

Use a spreadsheet to compare providers. Enter features, prices and any capabilities that stand out. Also, make a note of customer support options and see if the vendor offers additional integrated projects, such as webinar tools or helpdesk software.

Several business phone services provide on-demand demos in exchange for your contact details. Others will set up a meeting where company representatives answer your questions and walk through various functions based on your specific use cases. Also, take advantage of free trials. This allows your team to test the mobile and desktop applications, different features, and admin panel. Remember to interact with customer support to assess response times and agents’ familiarity with the system.

Once you’ve documented each company’s details and tested the software, ask your team to weigh in. Encourage them to share their experiences and concerns. With their input, decide what training your employees will require and how this impacts your decision. Look for a VoIP service that fits your budget while serving the needs of your staff.