How to Buy a Hosted VOIP Phone System

Hosted VOIP solutions can save a lot of money on telephone system charges since all calls come in over an Internet connection rather than separate telephone lines. An organization that uses a hosted VOIP does not have to maintain and support its own equipment but may sacrifice voice quality and reliability.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Compare the features and costs of a hosted VOIP to other alternatives like PBX or a system located on your company's premises. Decide whether the price outweighs the risks.
2. Consider systems offered by telecommunications companies who actually own the lines. A host who leases lines has little or no control over the data circuit.
3. Find out how many hops the signal needs to travel to get from the data line to the host. A lot of hops reduces dependability and voice quality.
4. Call references. Speak to customers whose set-up is similar to yours. Look for red flags, like a company who has only short-term customers. Pay special attention to the voice quality during the call. Verify that the person on the other end is using the hosted VOIP service.
5. Ask to see downtime reports. Review the company's support options and service level guarantee. Find out how you are reimbursed for system downtime. Make sure a qualified technician is available during all the hours your organization operates.
6. Evaluate the phones and other equipment. Make sure the host provides all the options you need, like music on hold, auto-attendant and voicemail.
7. Check out the online administration tools. They should have an intuitive interface that makes it easy to make changes.

Who Can Help:

• Find Cable, Networking & Telephone Services Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.