|
Business telephone systems are multiple line telephone systems used in business environments. They could be key systems for small scale operations or hybrid systems; or PBX (Private Branch Exchange) systems that are meant for large scale operations or the more recent VoIP systems. In a key system, a central user can look at and control calls directly and manually with the use of lighted line buttons. The operations of PBX are comparable to the usual public telephone system. In this system, the calls are automatically connected to the dialed numbers. PBX systems are also referred to as PABX (Private Automatic Branch Exchange) and EPABX (Electronic Private Automatic Branch Exchange). They are in general used when an office or business needs a dedicated telephone exchange. PBXs share the same technology as that of the central office telephone systems. Some complex and large PBXs have more capability and features when compared to public systems. Private Branch Exchanges allow interconnections between internal telephones, faxes and modems and so on, to form a telephone network. Extension is a term used to describe the end points in a network. PBX also links into the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) so as to allow outside calls into the organization which further reach the required desk via the extension numbers. Hybrid systems combine the features from the Key system as well as the PBX system. The VoIP ( Voice over IP ) system is becoming increasingly popular with bigger internet broadband services. In this technique, calls are made using the IP network as opposed to using the PSTN. In the VoIP system, simple softphones with earphones and mikes based on software or customized hardware devices are used. The cost of VoIP is much less in comparison to PBX and hence it is preferred for small businesses. As PBX can offer more features, it might be preferred for medium to large businesses. To choose the most suitable telephone system for a business, some big as well as small aspects have to be taken into account. The system installed should be aligned with the business goals so that it can provide the right support. Other factors to be considered are the latest available technologies and the costs involved. Access to feature laden conferencing tools, buzzing of many devices simultaneously for a single phone number, hi tech video conferencing services, mobile softphones, auto call attendant, paging facility & intercom, technology to quickly locate who is available to answer a call, wireless Internet Protocol phones, amalgamation into a CRM system and capability for Unified messaging etc. are some of the feature requirements to be deliberated upon, before picking a telephone system. The benefit of having a sensible and stable business telephone system in place is that it can support the entire business efficiently, improving cost effectiveness and productivity. For example, a video conference systems among several participants, each from a different geographic location in place of a physical meeting can save so much cost, time and effort. Sometimes, a mix of business telephone systems can be appropriate to satisfy requirements.
Related Articles -
Call, Calls, Call Handing, Call Handling Services,
|
