Cloud phone systems offer more flexibility when it comes to communication. The list of available features with Cloud phone systems can go on and on, enhancing the overall experience for users. Some companies opt to use strategic IT applications like Customer Relationship Management systems, which work in conjunction with your system for seamless integration. These excellent features help to increase productivity within your business.

When you shop for a Cloud phone system, you may be bombarded by confusing jargon making it difficult to understand what exactly you are purchasing. While companies can make their systems and features sound rather attractive, you may be spending more than you need to. Some companies provide an all-inclusive plan while others opt to price their services per user per month, plus additional fees for adding features. Before you start shopping around, be sure to determine your specific needs and try to stick to it.

Basic phone features are typically included within your plan or offered by your provider. With that said, it is wise to choose the features and functions that will most benefit your business. For example, functions such as hunt grouping or group pickup will enable improved service and organization within your business.

Companies must consider their call volume and the future need for expansion when selecting the line type. Traditional ISDN and analog circuits compel customers to buy surplus circuit capacity to decrease lead times and allow for growth, while also tying the business to a physical location. The Cloud, however, provides affordable access circuits, such as DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) or EFM (Ethernet First Mile), for high speed Internet connection. The Cloud also allows businesses to choose their preferred number.

Cloud systems may boast the fact that they can function rather autonomously, however, you will want to be able to access professional support should your system need it. When you choose a provider, be sure that they are able to offer assistance 24/7 so that your system is always supported.

As attractive as Cloud phone systems are, be sure to shop and choose wisely. Know what you need, and know what you’re getting. You will also want total price transparency so that you are pay for what you get with no hidden fees. Be sure that the system you choose is flexible enough to adapt to your business, and be sure to choose a reliable, quality service provider.

Has your business upgraded to a Cloud phone system? Have any tips for your peers? Share with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.

For the best business phone systems and telecom equipment, visit us online at Startechtel.com. If you would like to speak with us directly, please call 1-800-564-8045.

Switch is bringing the ultimate communication tools to businesses small and large. Its unified communications system provides a company’s employees one number to ring across various devices, as well as the ability to send messages, share calendars and documents within the infrastructure. This allows for employees to be more transparent and easily accessible within the company and, in turn, results in improved productivity.

Along with these great features, Switch is affordable and easy to install. For a low monthly price per employee, the business gets unlimited calls and texts. Employees can transfer their existing numbers over to the system, and Switch has partnered with a VoIP phone maker for those who require desk phones. Switch also collaborates with Google Apps so that each employee is tethered to a Google account. Administrators can then manage all accounts from the system’s dashboard, granting or withholding access as necessary.

The team behind Switch has quite a history. Members have been part of Grand Central, which we now know as Google Voice, and Uber Conference, a strong standalone conference system. With such great minds working on Switch, it’s no surprise that such a promising system was developed.

As Switch makes its way to the general public, the unified communications field may change. From what you know about Switch, in comparison to your business or workplace’s communication system, what are your thoughts? Share them with us. Find us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Visit Startechtel.com for excellent business phones, phone systems and equipment. If you have any questions, please feel free to live chat with us online or give us a call at 1-800-564-8045. Our office is open Monday-Friday 7:00am-5:00pm.