Number of Users/Employees
The number of individuals using the telephones on a regular basis, is obviously one primary thing to consider when looking at different business phone system options. If there are only one or two individuals calling out and answering phones, then a more basic system will work well. A larger system will likely be necessary when working in a large volume business that uses the telephone as its primary source of client/customer contact.
Budget
Careful consideration should be taken when making a phone system purchase. Most companies will allow you to upgrade so try not to go overboard with non-essential features until you can afford them.
Features That You Need/Features That You May Need
Try to determine what features you need today. Remote voicemail pick up is a feature that many companies find beneficial especially if they aren't always available to have a live individual answer the phone. Video conferencing, however, may be something that you don't need now, but that you may need if you add a satellite office at some point in the future. It is important to consider not only the hear and now, but also potentially what business phone system features your company may need in the future.
Will Growth and Expansion Affect the Productivity of Your Employees?
It is imperative that you find a system that can grow with your business. As your client and employee base begin to expand, an obsolete business phone system can hinder productivity. This is why it is important to make sure that whether you select a VoIP system or more traditional business telephone system that you choose one that is designed to grow with your business.
Training Employees
Having an innovative and expansive telephone service is only going to serve a business if employees know and understand how to best use the system. Training your employees on a new business phone system is the best way to ensure that they are making the most of this expenditure. It is also important to consider the level of technical skills of your employees when you are selecting a more advanced telephone system.
A business telephone system is best when it fits the business and employees that it serves. Careful selection and research into your business's' needs will prove most effective in making the best phone system selection for your business.