Often, it is said that when you own a small business, you are running a marathon. The needs of small businesses are constantly evolving, and you need to keep pace with them. Using the right communication platform is important for small businesses to reach out to the stakeholders and customers at the right time and in the right way. However, as a small business, you may find it tough to replace the copper-wired PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) and pick up suitable business communication software. An IP PBX is one of the most widely used phone systems, but how do you ascertain it is good for a small business, too?
Like all other businesses, small businesses must adapt to digitization changes. A study by IDC and Cisco found that the COVID-19 pandemic led over 70% of small businesses to accelerate their digitalization. The IDC study revealed that those small businesses successfully transformed themselves to generate more sales, while the small business digital natives reaped eight times higher growth. Today’s small businesses must adopt a hybrid communication tool that facilitates remote, on-premise, and scalability. Due to its versatile use that combines a traditional PBX (Private Branch Exchange) and IP (Internet Protocol), IP PBX offers one of the best PBX phone software for
Small business.
As per Gartner’s Software Advice, the adoption rate for cloud PBX and on-premise IP PBX systems is 29%, which shows that small businesses are switching to VoIP. As per the research firm, small businesses are replacing their existing phone system instead of evaluating VoIP systems for the first time. If you are still wondering how IP PBX can benefit you, look at the information below.
Benefits of IP PBX software for small business
- Cost-effective
This is perhaps the most significant reason a small business owner should move to IP PBX software for business communication. In today’s hyper-connected world, you may have geographically dispersed customers and teams. Your PBX software will help lower international phone bills while making collaboration effortless for remote and hybrid teamwork.
- Access advanced communication channels
Another reason to switch to IP PBX for small businesses is the opening of a host of communication mediums. It is more than a business phone system, you can use features such as video calls in real time, view voice log, voice mail, call forwarding, use your computer to make calls (Softphone eliminates the need for a separate device),.
- Direct communication with customers
With a direct IP link for communication, you can never miss a customer call. This lets you reach your customers directly without delay.
- Increase productivity
Business phones let you increase employee efficiency with in-built automation tools like IVR, Phone book, click-to-call, auto provisioning, and real-time call analytics. They also provide an overall picture of your business communication that allows you to evaluate and make strategic decisions.
- Reduces IT costs and scalability
Most VoIP service providers offer cloud deployment of PBX services, which eliminates the additional costs for IT service personnel. The maintenance and lower set-up costs offer cost advantages and the option to scale as your small business grows.
Once you understand the advantages and decide on the best PBX phone software, you could place it next on your list. Here’s a list of must-have IP PBX solutions to give you the best value for your investment.
Checklist for choosing the best IP PBX software for small business
- Accurate Cost Accounting for Usage and Ownership
IP PBX indeed offers many useful features as a VoIP-based business phone system. However, it would be best if you accounted accurately for set-up and recurring costs.
Some IP PBX service providers also offer it as a SaaS product, giving you some certainty per your chosen pricing plan.
- Strength of your internet connection
Cloud-based IP PBX and hosted solutions both require consistent and secure fast internet connections to work well. If you experience intermittent outages, this could lead to call drop-ins and drop-outs. So, make sure you have a reliable internet connection that can bear the load of a business phone system.
- Customization
It is best to get customized software that helps to automate certain tasks as per your business needs. A hosted PBX software system may require changes from your end, while a service provider may bear a cloud-based IP PBX software customization.
- Technical support
The other aspect is being mindful of a qualified technical team. The service provider of your choice should be able to support you throughout the tenure of use rather than one-time setup guidance. You may likely face some issues while using the business phone system. User interface and
- Scalability
Whatever you choose, the important consideration should be an adaptable solution that can be scaled as your small business grows.
As a small business, you should be confident of your VoIP service provider’s value. Getting PBX software means you are ready to scale your business.
With our years of experience working with small businesses in 34 countries, we can help you make the right decision. To learn more about IP PBX software, both on-premise and cloud, reach out to HoduSoft. As a Category Leader and FrontRunner by Gartner in the call recording category, we believe in partnering with our customers in their growth journey. Call us at +1 707-708-4638 or write to sales@hodusoft.com for a one-on-one discussion.
