The Advantages of Hosted PBX
Private branch exchanges, also known as PBX, are telephone exchanges that serve a particular business or department. Rather than using a common carrier, businesses may opt to use these to provide better service, since they support the use of phones, faxes and modems. Hosted PBXs came into existence when the Internet became a primary place of business. They allowed small businesses to have their PBX at the telephone service provider, while the calls were being delivered through the Internet.
Other People Are Reading
-
Equipment Maintenance
-
Larger companies may opt to rent or purchase equipment for their own PBX and network. This tends to be better a good option for them because they generally have more money for maintaining their business. Small companies have a more difficult time. The telephone service provider takes care of the hosted PBX, which is included in the fee to use their service. In addition to not having to maintain the equipment, most hosted PBX services do not require installation. Since they operate from the premises of the service providers, you only really need an Internet connection and a single phone line.
Features of a Hosted PBX
-
There are several features included in a hosted PBX. Many allow for fax mail, voice mail, caller ID, call forwarding, auto attendants and call conferencing. They may also have voice to email, and the ability to call certain people based on a listing that is associated with that PBX. Different companies may offer a variety of other features, so it is best to carefully research to find the one that most fits your company.
-
Call Handling
-
The phones on a hosted PBX system are never engaged. All calls are promptly moved to the appropriate extensions. The caller can leave a message if the call is not received. Depending on the service provider, all faxes are sent to your email. Essentially, the whole system is capable of behaving like a virtual receptionist. On weekends and off-hours, customers are able to call and have their calls answered or routed to the appropriate voice mail. The entire operation can be shared among multiple users.
Versatility of Location
-
A hosted PBX offers many services that allow you to be at home, traveling or in your office to receive calls and faxes -- provided you have a computer or mobile phone. This can allow for smaller businesses to let their staff work off-site, or travel to a customer's location and still provide effective communication with other clients. It can also allow employees to work from home in emergency situations, such as a snowstorm.
-
