A Complete Guide to Cloud-Based Phone System Selection

Businesses need an efficient and easy-to-use communication system to stay ahead of the competition and keep consumers happy. A cloud-based phone system is the most suitable choice for any business organization, big or small. This is why modern enterprises are considering adopting this kind of technology.

The rise in usage of cloud phones is because they have made it easy for businesses to reach out to clients all over the world without having to go through an elaborate setup at a specific place or install software by themselves. With cloud calling, companies can instantly establish a local presence across different countries by providing local phone numbers.

This comprehensive blog will discuss a complete guide on cloud-based phone system selection.🚀

Understanding the cloud-based phone system?

A cloud-based phone system, also known as a hosted PBX(Private Branch Exchange), connects to the Internet so that companies can redirect phone calls, keep voicemail messages, and offer other telecommunication services. This digital mode of interaction cuts costs and allows for adjustments and maintenance by another party.

No telecommunication infrastructure is needed at your company; therefore, it is very simple to set up and provide it there. Therefore, all you need is to acquire the cloud service available from either a vendor or through its distribution partners, after which you pay for a monthly or annual subscription. Basically, cloud phones are characterized by such advanced components as extension dialing systems, auto attendants, separate voice and video conferences, and ring groups, amongst others.

Furthermore, when many people work far from the office, VoIP(voice over internet protocol) is replacing traditional business phone systems, reducing the headache of employers who want their employees at home during the week but not on weekends or public holidays.

What businesses benefit from a cloud phone system?

By controlling the power of cloud technology, you can access cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and more. These innovative phone systems are ideal for any industry and are the perfect fit for businesses in these categories.

• Seasonal businesses with varying communications demands
• Companies with multiple national and international locations
• Organizations utilizing call centers
• Business with numerous remote employees
• Companies operating without traditional office spaces
• Start-ups with fluctuating capacity requirements

Some advanced features of cloud-based phone system

Public cloud PBX can offer superior performance compared to traditional PBX on company premises, residential phones, and regular landline devices. Another feature is flexibility in adding or removing features in the hosted business telephony system and updating any new features when introduced. Some of the additional features of an advanced business phone system that make it the IT solution mentioned above are as follows.

1. Unified communications

Phone clouds provide one-stop solutions for unified communication that combine all forms of communication on a platform. This includes calls, voice mails, instant messages, video conferencing, faxes, emails, CRM, etc.

2. International calling

With the help of a cloud phone, you can make a call worldwide without paying extra charges. Most cloud packages offer free international calls as part of their calling.

3. Video conferencing

Video calling and conference tools assist in remote work being done by employees who want to link with colleagues far away or people in different locations.

4. Multiple device support

Even if you are not in the office physically, a cloud phone helps you through its support on multiple devices with the same number.

5. Artificial intelligence

Providers can refine cloud phones to enable them to provide better customer service, convert speech to text, and understand sentiment analysis through integrated AI capabilities.

6. Blocklist and allow list

The phone enables you to auto-block some numbers while still allowing others to call you despite the blocklist settings; this is a great way to ensure security.

7. VoIP capabilities and HD quality

VoIP uses an internet connection to establish a call between two parties, reducing the cost significantly compared to traditional telephony. Find a telephone system based on the internet with many features, including high-quality audio, to make good calls.

Choosing the best provider: Cloud-based Phone System Selection

When choosing the best cloud-based VoIP business phone system, one should research extensively and compare their budget with the services and packages offered by providers, as it is essential at this level, given that service providers have different packages and features, each with varying costs.

Hence, these analyses need to be done first. Quality service matters a lot, and so does customer care service satisfaction among other providers.

While deciding whether you need a virtual extension platform or a residential VoIP service, you should consider both the present scenario and future perspectives of your business with the help of the following factors:

• If you require a cloud-based phone system with capabilities such as auto-attendant, call forwarding, and routing.
• If your business demands private branch exchange(PBX) or virtual telephony services.
• If daily team messaging or video conferencing is essential for your work.
• Choose a system after experiencing a demo of the onboarding process and evaluating after-sales technical support.
• Compare the top features that fit within your budget.

Setting up a cloud-based phone system

Once you have finished selecting a cloud-based phone, setting up a cloud phone system for all types of businesses takes a little time. You can set up a complete virtual phone system with a few easy steps:

I. Choose a suitable number

For your business, you should choose between local or toll-free numbers. Different departments may have different numbers. Small or medium businesses find local numbers more relevant, as they make their customers feel more connected. Businesses that have a nationwide or global reach are better suited with toll-free numbers because they help create a positive brand reputation and acquire new customers.

II. Install the app

The cloud providers work well through a web tool or phone application that centralizes control over your entire phone system. After you key in the phone numbers, you install the app on your device.

After that, you can create an account and log in to the online portal to access the company network or any device.

III. Apply required settings

Cloud telephony systems provide a variety of customizable attributes, including auto-attendants, call settings, music-on-hold or ringing groups, voice mailboxes for users, and business lines with their working hours, all managed from a control panel.

IV. Test the system

one must test the cloud-based phone system properly first to make sure it is in your favor to adopt one. Making good calls and sending text messages that the voicemail system functions correctly are some of these things that can help towards such actions.

Common issues and challenges with cloud-based phone systems

Cloud-based telephone systems provide business connectivity but have limitations such as reliance on internet connectivity, vulnerability to cybersecurity issues, limited user scalability, complex integration with existing systems and business software, and poor call quality due to inadequate internet service in remote locations. These challenges must be addressed for effective cloud telephony.

In addition, security is a critical issue because it is not those who use the infrastructure that is targeted by cyber-attacks and data breaches but rather the cloud-based systems that house the information that demands strong security to prevent this threat. It can certainly be hard for companies using intricate or old-fashioned setups to integrate them into the existing IT architecture.

Conclusion

VoIP technology is used by a cloud-based telephony system to make phone calls, send messages, greet voice messages, and route communications. It has low costs, easy scalability, maintenance-free operation, reliable operation mode, and intelligent features. All companies can leverage this versatile tool. The cloud-based telephony system supplied by TelcoDataCloud, the top CCAAS provider, incorporates unique functions that enable companies to enhance communication channels and effectiveness.

In addition, sophisticated business communication can be done without requiring costly hardware by utilizing cloud-based telephone systems; this saves resources and time and enhances workflow, hence boosting an organization’s productivity. Those not so sure about these abilities could still try it through a sample version with zero cost involved.

FAQs

When should I switch to a cloud phone system?

Switching to a cloud phone system is never a terrible moment because it’s easy to set up, and a professional service provider will ensure a smooth transition. It saves you money while also making your firm more efficient.

What question should I ask before choosing a cloud phone system?

To choose a cloud-based phone system for your business, consider factors like existing IP phones, adaptors, and alternative hardware. Budget is crucial as cloud phone systems offer customizable packages. A reliable internet connection is essential for uninterrupted communication. Your business’s size and scale also influence the phone system choice.

Is a cloud phone system suitable for my small businesses?

Absolutely! Cloud phone systems are highly flexible and cost-effective, making them an excellent choice for small businesses looking to enhance their communication capabilities.

What is cloud PBX?

Cloud PBX system is an internet-based phone system in which providers host equipment off-site. It allows desk phones to connect and use the network, with the server handling signaling and call functionalities.

What if my internet is lost? Will my cloud phone system still work?

Cloud phone systems depend entirely on the internet connection to make and receive calls. However, you can set up call-forwarding features that forward calls to an alternate number if you lose your internet connection for some time.