How to Choose the Best Small Business Phone System

August 5, 2024

How To Choose the Best Small Business Phone System

What is the Best Phone System for a Small Business?

Choosing the right phone system is one of the many important decisions a small business owner must make. With a focus on improving communication, enhancing productivity, and remaining adaptable, business owners and managers have a lot to consider. But with a multitude of options available, it’s essential for every business owner to understand the benefits and limitations of each system to find the best fit for their business needs.

The Different Types of Business Phone Systems

Small businesses typically have two primary phone system options: premise-based and managed VoIP. Each type offers unique advantages depending on your business’s specific requirements, so it’s important to consider the different aspects of these two options to find the one that best fits your needs.

Premise-Based Phone Systems

Premise-based phone systems, more commonly referred to as PBX systems, involve having all the necessary equipment for operating a switchboard system physically located at your business premises. It might sound intimidating, but here’s how they work:

On-Site Server: The hardware and servers are installed on-site, giving you direct control over your communication infrastructure.
Traditional Phone Lines: The system connects to your location via traditional telephone trunk providers, receiving a dial tone directly.
User Responsibility: You are responsible for the system’s maintenance, upgrades, and expansion.

Premise-based systems offer full control and potentially lower long-term costs if your business has the technical expertise to manage the system internally. They are ideal for companies that prefer handling their own IT infrastructure and have the resources to do so. But if you don’t? You might like our next option!

Managed VoIP Systems

Managed Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, systems are cloud-based solutions that provide a flexible and scalable alternative to premise-based systems. Unlike PBX systems, managed VoIP relies on the internet to connect the provider with the customer, and all equipment is hosted off-site. It’s quite a different option but one that has great advantages too!

Scalability: Easily scale your system up or down based on your business needs without significant costs for new equipment or installations.
Advanced Features: With VoIP, you get access to a wide range of features, including voice, video messaging, and conferencing.
Cost Efficiency: There are lower upfront costs since the hardware is leased and maintained by the provider, typically paid for through a monthly fee.

VoIP solutions, like the Yealink Managed VoIP or Mitel Managed Voice systems, offer excellent features that both small and medium-sized businesses can benefit from.

Identifying the Right System for Your Business

The best phone system for your small business depends on your specific needs, available resources (like an on-site IT Team), and future growth plans. If your business has the IT infrastructure and expertise to manage an on-site system, a premise-based phone system could work for you. However, for businesses looking for flexibility, scalability, and advanced features with minimal management overhead, a managed VoIP system is the ideal solution.

Be Confident in Your Decision with Anavon

We offer customizable telecom solutions tailored to your unique needs to take the guesswork out of choosing the right phone system for your business needs. We give each client a comprehensive, tailored solution that’s affordable and on-demand, all with no contract–ever.

Contact us today to learn more about why we’re the best business technology provider in Traverse City & all of Northern Michigan. See for yourself how our professional phone systems can enhance your business communication, help you stay connected, and reach new heights.