Business communications technology has evolved so much over the years that it now offers numerous features and applications. While that’s a good thing, companies can become overwhelmed when trying to choose the right Hosted VoIP provider for their business. So here’s a brief guide on how to make sure that you make the right choice.
1. Plans and pricing
Cost is usually the primary consideration for businesses switching to Hosted VoIP. Compared to the upfront investment and maintenance cost that traditional PBX systems require, cloud-based communication options are certainly more cost-efficient.
While a Hosted VoIP platform is more cost efficient, be sure that you’re not signing up for a service with lots of hidden costs. For example, did you sign up with a provider who offers only the most basic VoIP features at a minimal cost? Does the provider charge you more for additional features? Will you be charged for future software upgrades? Do you have unlimited access to support or will you have to pay extra?
The best providers offer all-inclusive features and charge on a per-seat basis. This makes the pricing simple and easily scalable.
2. Features for mobility
Legacy phone systems tether employees to their desks. Hosted VoIP solutions do not. Many Hosted VoIP providers ensure that productivity isn’t confined to the office with tools like a reliable, Hosted-VoIP mobile app.
Take note that a Hosted VoIP mobile app is not an industry standard. This means you have to do your research to find a provider that offers this service. (And make sure the Hosted VoIP provider doesn’t charge you any additional fees to use their mobile app!)
3. Features for professionalism
Professionalism is key to a growing business, especially if you’re looking to compete with larger, more established corporations. Even something as simple as keeping your phones covered 24/7 can do a lot to show clients and potential customers that you are capable of handling their business.
Hosted VoIP offers comprehensive features that will allow smaller businesses to keep up with the larger organizations. Auto-attendants for example, can ensure that you don’t miss important calls even after hours. Call queues make it easier to manage multiple calls. And time-based routing makes handling calls for the company more efficient.
These are just some examples of what you can expect from a Hosted VoIP system. Be sure to ask about providers what features they can offer your business.
4. Easy integrations
Further enhancing productivity and efficiency in the workplace boils down to Hosted VoIP’s ability to integrate seamlessly into existing software. CRM platforms, for example, are commonly used in businesses as a way to manage customer relationships. And reliable Hosted VoIP providers are able to provide better customer care by integrated their Hosted VoIP and CRM software.
Streamlining both systems allows your employees to easily access necessary caller information when a client or customer calls. This can gives customer services teams more accurate and reliable data to manage customers, saving time and reducing errors in their work.
5. Support and security
Like all technological solutions, there will be instances in which you will encounter glitches and problems that require immediate attention. That’s why a Hosted VoIP provider should be accessible 24/7.
Also do your due diligence on security. Because the system runs on the cloud, it’s critical that your sensitive business data remains secure from potential attacks and protected from vulnerabilities.
A thorough understanding of what your business needs and what a Hosted VoIP provider has to offer will make it easier to choose the right Hosted VoIP platform for your company. Keep these tips in mind during your selection process in order to benefit from the advantages Hosted VoIP can provide.
If you would like your company to experience the flexibility and collaboration of Hosted VoIP, get in touch with us today.
