Buyers Guide

A poorly researched telephone system can be more of a hindrance to your business than a help. Prior to investing in new telecom equipment consider the following points and avoid the common pitfalls.

There are four fundamental areas to consider when beginning the process of identifying your requirements: simplicity, reliability, flexibility, and cost efficiency. By bearing these criteria in mind you can focus on the requirements that will specifically benefit your business, and avoid paying for unnecessary services and features.

Simplicity – Both for the internal users handling incoming calls, transfers, retrieving messages, conference calls, etc, and for customers ringing in, navigating the switchboard, automated functions, being placed on hold, leaving messages and so on.

Reliability – The stability of both the hardware and software are crucial, but often overlooked. Consider what the short (and long) term implications to your business in the event of employees being unable to phone out, or customers being unable to ring in, even for brief periods of time.

Flexibility – A well chosen system should retain the ability to expand and grow in line with operational changes to a business, both in terms of the number of employees, lines and extensions, and, in response to technology advances, software upgrades and so on.  

Cost-efficiency – As a business tool, it’s often difficult to precisely quantify the value of a good telecoms solution. However, the worth of a professional system should be balanced against a variety of factors, including: the potential productivity benefits gained from enhanced customer communications, cost savings on calls, line rentals, overheads and repairs, customer’s perception of the organisation and the commercial benefits gained by projecting an image of credibility. All will help in terms of client confidence and retention.    

For a more detailed checklist and explanation of the features and functions available, click here to bring up our advanced buyers guide page, or contact us on 01952 528000 to arrange for a ‘no-obligation’ consultation and demonstration.