Small Business Telephone Systems
What's Best for Your Business?

Hundreds of small business telephone systems are out there, probably many more than that. Making apples to apples comparison of systems is a real challenge. I've heard customers describe it as though they've had to take on a second job as they navigate and evaluate the many alternatives available.

No two businesses describe their needs and requirements for a new business phone system the same way. Many small businesses and also non-profit organizations get by with single-line or multi-line phones. These tend to be small retailers like your dog groomer or convenience store. Small business telephone systems can still be expensive and hard to justify. The most important feature they might ask for is mobility with cordless phones.

On the other hand, larger retailers like automobile dealerships and drugstores need very sophisticated applications. Banking, real estate, health and medical, government, legal - all of these industries can require special or custom design and programming when it comes to their business telephone equipment.

If it's time for you to choose a phone system for your business, consider how competitive your industry is. Intense competition in the phone systems business has mostly forced companies that sell phones to other businesses to be smarter and more aggressive. Smarter is great. Aggressive, maybe not so much, since that style may tend to make some of us feel defensive.

As you consider options in phone systems for small business, you'll find useful information in this section and around this site. If you have a functioning, reliable telephone system in place, information about specific phone features and functionality may help you identify communications deficiencies within your organization.

Your interest may be related to planned expansion, relocation, the age of your existing system, recurring cost concerns, some specific functionality (think call recording, automated customer service, conferencing, etc.), or you may have a business you've just started and you're looking at both systems and service options.

Your vendor should do a simple but thorough needs analysis. If they have some knowledge or experience with your industry, this is especially helpful. You are looking for someone who can meet your needs and solve your problems at a fair and competitive price. Understand that not all phone systems are created equal. Consider that a very low bid may mean equally low quality. The adage 'you get what you pay for' may apply.

Buying a phone system is a process, not a single event. This process may take weeks or even months. Once a decision is made, implementation can start - again, a process, not an event. Ask your preferred vendor (before you buy) for an outline of the installation steps.

Will they help you coordinate all telco and data orders? How do they handle training? Have a unique question about your organization and small business telephone system selection? Call or email any time.