Choosing the Best Phone System for Small Businesses
Intro
Selecting the right phone system can be a daunting task for any small business. The communication landscape is constantly evolving, and with numerous options available, decision-makers often find themselves at a crossroads. This article encapsulates the essential elements that influence the selection of a phone system tailored for small enterprises, providing clarity in a sea of choices.
Small businesses face unique challenges; their resources are not as expansive as those of larger companies. Consequently, their phone systems must be cost-effective yet robust enough to tackle daily communications. The goal is to create a system that suits their specific needs without breaking the bank. This article serves as a comprehensive roadmap, allowing entrepreneurs to make informed decisions that foster connectivity and streamline operations.
Software Category Overview
Definition and Importance
At its core, a phone system serves as the backbone of a business's communication strategy. It allows for seamless interaction with clients, suppliers, and team members. With today’s technological advances, phone systems have transitioned from traditional landlines to sophisticated Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems, each with distinct characteristics and benefits. Choosing the right system can pave the way for better customer experiences, enhanced collaboration, and ultimately, greater growth.
For small businesses, the importance of an efficient phone system cannot be overstated. It acts as a lifeline, ensuring that opportunities are never missed and communication barriers are minimized. An optimal phone system can elevate customer engagement, making a small business seem larger than life.
Key Characteristics
Understanding the key characteristics of various phone systems is critical when embarking on the selection journey. Here are a few vital aspects to consider:
- Scalability: Can the phone system grow with the business? This is fundamental as small enterprises may expand and require more lines.
- Flexibility: Are there options for remote access? In a world that's increasingly leaning towards remote work, a system that offers flexibility is essential.
- Integration: How well does the system integrate with other tools? A phone system that works smoothly with customer relationship management (CRM) software, email platforms, and more can save time and effort.
- Quality: The clarity of calls is non-negotiable. Poor call quality can hinder effective communication and frustrate clients.
- Cost-Effectiveness: The system should align with the financial constraints typical of smaller businesses, ensuring value for money.
"An efficient phone system is not just about making calls — it is about cultivating relationships and driving growth."
Comparative Analysis of Top Software Options
Feature Comparison
When looking at different phone systems, a comparison of the features they offer is crucial. Here’s a brief overview of popular options that cater well to small businesses:
- RingCentral: Known for its comprehensive features like video conferencing, text messaging, and a user-friendly interface.
- Grasshopper: Optimal for startups, Grasshopper provides virtual phone numbers to ensure a professional image.
- Vonage: Offers competitive pricing with excellent VoIP services tailored for small enterprises.
- 8x8: A robust system that provides unlimited calling and video conferencing as part of its core service.
Pricing Models
Understanding the pricing structures of these systems can help businesses stay within their budgets. Here are some common pricing models:
- Monthly Subscription: A fixed monthly fee covering all services. Typical for cloud-based systems.
- Per-User Pricing: Costs are determined based on the number of users, allowing scalability based on team growth.
- One-Time Payment: Some systems may offer a one-time fee for purchase, though ongoing maintenance and upgrades may still incur costs.
When diving into the details of a selected phone system, it’s crucial to weigh these aspects thoughtfully. By understanding all the intricacies, small business owners can pinpoint the perfect solution that fits their unique communication needs.
Foreword to Phone Systems for Small Businesses
Choosing the right phone system is more than just about having a line that connects your calls. For small businesses, this choice can have a profound impact on efficiency and overall effectiveness. In today’s fast-paced business environment, where communication needs can change overnight, understanding different phone systems and their corresponding features can equip small businesses to meet customer demands seamlessly.
One of the primary benefits of a well-selected phone system is enhanced communication. This is not just about voice calls; it encompasses messaging, video conferencing, call forwarding, and more. Efficient communication can lead to better customer service and increased sales, as happy customers are likely to return and recommend your services to others.
When considering a phone system, small business owners must grapple with their specific communication needs. Are they primarily serving a local clientèle, or are they reaching out to a national, or even international, audience? This question can inform whether to go with a traditional landline system or a more modern Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) system. Each has its advantages, and the stakes are quite high, since poor communication can lead to missed opportunities.
In this article, we will explore the essence of different phone systems, focusing on their features, functions, and the costs associated with setting them up. Owners and decision-makers can benefit from a structured process leading to informed decisions that promote productivity. The goal is to help businesses not only to choose a system but to understand how that system aligns with both current and future needs.
Understanding the Importance of Communication
Communication is the lifeblood of any business, but it's crucial for small enterprises that may not have the resources to absorb miscommunications or delays. In small teams, effective communication means quicker decision-making and the ability to pivot on changes. If your phone system is inefficient, it can translate directly into loss of business, poor employee morale, and an image that doesn't resonate well with clients.
A comprehensive phone system that integrates various features can improve internal communication as well. Instead of relying solely on emails or messaging apps, a solid phone system fosters an environment where discussing issues over calls or video chats becomes the norm, eliminating misunderstandings.
Additionally, customers expect to reach businesses through a multitude of channels. A phone system that encompasses traditional calls, customer service lines, and even video conferencing meets these expectations. The modern customer loves options, and meeting them where they’re at can set a small business apart.
Defining the Needs of a Small Business
Every small business is unique, and thus defining specific communication needs is essential in selecting the right phone system. The first step is to conduct an audit of current communication practices. Are there bottlenecks in the workflow? Are employees frequently facing miscommunication among each other and with clients? Identifying these gaps can inform the features you should prioritize.
Another crucial consideration is the size of the business. If you have a small team working closely, a simple phone system with basic features may suffice. However, if you are expanding or have remote employees, investing in advanced features such as call forwarding, voice messages, and integration with other business tools can pay significant dividends.
For businesses aiming to grow, a scalable phone system can adapt to changing needs. Systems like VoIP can offer flexibility, allowing you to add or remove features as needed without incurring hefty costs. This adaptability can lead to long-term satisfaction and savings.
Moreover, understanding your customer base's communication preferences is vital. Are they typically business professionals who prefer calling, or do they show a tendency towards messaging and video? Aligning your phone system with these preferences can enhance the overall customer experience, thereby increasing loyalty and repeat business.
By taking these elements into account, small businesses can make informed decisions that not only fit their current operations but also anticipate future needs and challenges.
Types of Phone Systems
Selecting the right phone system is pivotal for small businesses, as it goes beyond just having a means to talk. The different types of phone systems address varied business needs, technical capabilities, and budgets. Not every company will find success with the same solution. Therefore, understanding the landscape of phone system options is integral to choosing one that boosts productivity and fosters communication.
Traditional Landline Systems
Traditional landline systems, while sometimes referred to as the old guard, maintain a steadfast place in many small businesses. These systems operate on copper wires and rely heavily on Public Switched Telephone Networks (PSTN). One key benefit is their reliability. When the power goes out, a well-functioning landline can still deliver calls, ensuring that customers can reach out without a hitch.
However, this reliability comes at a price—the costs can stack up rather quickly. Monthly fees for traditional lines along with high maintenance expenses may not sit well with budget-conscious entrepreneurs. Moreover, these systems don’t easily offer advanced features like voicemail–to–email or call routing, which can hinder overall efficiency. For some, the simplicity can be appealing, as they are straightforward and familiar. If a business primarily needs a phone for basic communication without numerous bells and whistles, traditional landline systems could be a suitable option.
VoIP Systems
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems have surged in popularity, harnessing the power of internet connectivity to facilitate calls. They convert voice into digital data, transmitting it via the internet. One of the major benefits of VoIP is its cost-effectiveness. Monthly subscriptions are generally lower than traditional services, which can free up cash flow for other essential areas of the business.
Additionally, VoIP systems are chock-full of features that cater to modern communication needs. Businesses can enjoy functionalities like call forwarding, video conferencing, and CRM integration right out of the box.
Yet, a potential downside is the dependency on a stable internet connection—if the internet is sluggish or down, so are the calls. Thus, it may not be suitable for every business, especially those in areas with unreliable internet service.
Hybrid Systems
Hybrid systems present a unique solution by combining elements of both traditional and VoIP systems. For businesses that have existing landline infrastructure but want to dip their toes into VoIP, a hybrid solution can offer the best of both worlds. This is particularly attractive for companies that may experience a gradual transition to newer technologies.
The benefits of hybrid systems include flexibility and scalability. As a company grows, it can expand its VoIP capabilities without the need to completely overhaul its phone network. Employees can use internet-based endpoints while retaining access to landline services when needed. However, on the flip side, the complexity of managing both systems can be cumbersome and may necessitate additional training or IT support.
In summary, understanding the various types of phone systems is crucial when identifying the right choice for a small business. Each type presents its own advantages and challenges, and weighing these factors against your specific business needs is key to making informed and strategic decisions. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance communication while ensuring that the selected system aligns with operational demands and budgetary constraints.
Key Features to Consider
When diving into the selection of a phone system, it's crucial to assess the key features that can enhance your small business communications. The right features can significantly impact your operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and overall productivity. Each business has its unique requirements; thus, identifying the essential elements that align with your operational goals becomes paramount.
Call Management Features
Call management features are at the center of effective communication strategies. They not only streamline operations but also enhance customer interactions. Understanding specific functionalities can help your business juggle calls in a way that maximizes every interaction.
Call Forwarding
Call forwarding stands out as a key trait of modern phone systems. It allows incoming calls to be routed to different numbers, such as mobile phones or secondary lines, ensuring that no call goes unanswered. This is especially crucial for small businesses with limited staff, forcing each employee to wear multiple hats.
One of its main benefits is the flexibility it offers. Imagine you're out of the office but still able to take calls on your cell phone—this can boost customer satisfaction significantly. It helps maintain a professional appearance and maintains the connection between the business and its clients. However, there might be a downside; if not managed properly, important calls can get lost or end up in the wrong hands. Thus, it's essential to configure this feature thoughtfully to ensure it's a hit rather than a miss.
Voicemail to Email
Voicemail to email conversion is another cutting-edge feature that aids in maintaining effective communication. It delivers voicemails straight to your inbox as audio files or text transcriptions, making it simple to manage messages without sifting through numerous calls. This neat characteristic offers a significant benefit because it keeps employees informed without tying them down to their desks.
By having messages accessible anytime, decision-makers can conduct business more fluidly. Yet, this feature has its pitfalls; reliance on technology means that issues can arise, and if systems go down, vital messages could be missed. Hence, as beneficial as it is, having a backup plan is always wise.
Call Recording
Call recording is a feature that might seem only relevant for larger organizations but can be a game changer for small enterprises. This functionality enables businesses to capture conversations for later review—a benefit that cannot be overlooked. It helps in ensuring compliance, training new employees, and improving overall service.
The key characteristic of call recording lies in its ability to provide insights into customer interactions. You can dissect each call to understand what works and what doesn't. On the flip side, the disadvantage is respect for privacy; businesses must be careful and adhere to legal guidelines about notifying callers before recording their conversations.
Integration Capabilities
Integration capabilities are like the glue that holds different functionalities together. With wireless communication and various applications, connecting your phone system to existing tools is essential to streamline processes and avoid repetitive tasks. It can greatly elevate your operations.
CRM Integration
Integrating Customer Relationship Management (CRM) with your phone system is becoming essential for a seamless operation. This connection allows sales teams to access client information from the moment the phone rings, ultimately enhancing the customer experience. It can provide vital context during calls, allowing for a more personalized service.
The benefit of CRM integration is substantial; customer insights gathered can improve relationships. However, ensuring your CRM can communicate effectively with your phone system requires thorough research to avoid compatibility issues, which can hurt efficiency.
Third-party Applications
Third-party applications further expand the capabilities of your phone system. These applications can range from team collaboration tools to scheduling software, enabling businesses to enhance communication not just internally but with clients and suppliers as well.
Why is this a popular choice among small businesses? It allows for the customization of systems based on specific needs and offers flexibility. However, juggling too many applications can lead to inefficiencies if not managed effectively, so it’s wise to have a clear strategy in place.
Mobility Features
Mobility features are no longer a nice-to-have; they are a necessity, especially in today's fast-paced work environment. They allow you to manage operations from anywhere, making your business more resilient and adaptable to change.
Mobile Apps
Mobile applications connected to your phone system empower team members to manage calls, chats, and messages while on the move. This feature allows businesses to stay in touch regardless of where they are or what they're doing. It opens the door for remote or hybrid work, presenting a key benefit of increased productivity.
However, there is a potential downside; mobile apps can sometimes be glitchy or unreliable, leading to frustration among users. Ensure a quality mobile application is chosen to mitigate these risks.
Remote Access
Remote access capabilities allow employees to connect to the phone system from anywhere, paving the way for increased flexibility in workstyles. This is particularly beneficial in today’s world, where many businesses operate in a distributed manner.
With remote access, employees can respond to customers promptly, no matter where they may be. The benefit is clear: maintaining connectivity can lead to improved service levels.
Yet, with such benefits comes the need for robust security measures, as remote access can expose systems to vulnerabilities. Therefore, having a solid security plan in place is essential to safeguard company data while embracing this modern flexibility.
Cost Considerations
When it comes to selecting a phone system for small businesses, cost considerations can make or break the deal. After all, the financial implications of a phone system shouldn’t just be viewed through the lens of immediate expenses. A thorough understanding of initial costs, ongoing fees, and potential hidden charges can empower business owners and IT decision-makers to strike a balance between functionality and affordability.
Initial Setup Costs
The journey begins with initial setup costs, which can vary significantly depending on the type of phone system chosen. Traditional landlines might require wiring infrastructure, while VoIP setups could need specific hardware. Factors such as equipment purchases, installation fees, and even training staff on new systems can add up quickly. Investing in a system that aligns with your current infrastructure and growth plans can lead to significant savings down the road. A small business should weigh the value of upfront expenditure against long-term functionality and ease of use.
Monthly Subscription Fees
Next up are the monthly subscription fees, which are particularly prominent in the realm of VoIP systems. Many providers offer tiered service plans that cater to various business sizes and needs. These fees can encapsulate a range of services, from the bare-bones options to feature-rich packages. It’s essential not just to look at the most economical choice but to consider what’s included. What appears to be a budget-friendly plan might lack essential features, potentially leading to unforeseen costs. Therefore, scrutinizing these monthly charges alongside benefits is crucial before commitment.
Hidden Charges
When budgeting for a phone system, hidden charges often lurk in the shadows. These include a variety of fees, such as maintenance costs, overage charges, and sometimes unexpected taxes that can sneak up on even the most diligent planners.
Maintenance Fees
Maintenance fees are one aspect that can contribute significantly to the overall financial landscape. These fees typically cover servicing the phone system and ensuring it operates smoothly over time. A well-maintained system can prevent downtime, which is often more costly than the fee itself. However, it’s essential to clarify what these fees cover. Some providers bundle them into their service plans, while others list them distinctly, potentially leading to confusion. Knowing whether maintenance is included or an additional cost can impact budget assessments.
Overage Charges
Overage charges are another financial consideration that can easily escape notice. They come into play when a business exceeds its allocated calling limits or data usage for a billing cycle. While this feature can be seen as a safety net, it can also lead to hefty supplementary fees for businesses that experience growth or unexpected surges in communication needs. The unpredictability of these charges highlights the importance of evaluating projected call volumes and having a clear understanding of your pricing structure to avoid any unwelcome surprises.
Overall, being thorough in understanding costs associated with a phone system is not just about picking a plan; it's about aligning the phone system's capabilities with business goals while keeping financial health in check.
A strategic approach to cost considerations ensures a small business can leverage communication tools effectively without straining resources unnecessarily.
Evaluating Vendors
When it comes to choosing a phone system for a small business, the choice of vendor can be just as important as the technology itself. Evaluating vendors involves assessing their credibility, reliability, and overall fit with your company’s needs. This step shouldn't be taken lightly. A solid vendor can mean the difference between smooth sailing and a rocky road when it comes to communication. Here are some critical elements to consider:
- Trustworthiness: A vendor’s reputation is built on its delivery of promises. You want to ensure that the vendor has a track record of reliability and effective service. Partnering with a trustworthy vendor often translates to smoother operations and peace of mind.
- Performance Metrics: Look for metrics that indicate consistent performance. Review uptime percentages and service level agreements (SLAs) they offer. A low downtime percentage is crucial, especially for businesses that thrive on constant communication.
"Choosing a vendor is like picking a life partner; you want someone who you can trust to be there when you need them."
Reputation and Reliability
Reputation precedes a company in the digital age. In an era where customer feedback can be shared at the speed of light, it’s imperative to consider what others are saying about a potential phone system vendor. Reputation is not just about marketing hype; it’s about proven results.
- Industry Experience: A vendor's years in the business often correlate with reliability. An established player likely has refined their systems and processes to meet demands effectively.
- Certifications and Awards: Vendors often share achievements and accreditations. Look for certifications from reputable organizations that verify their competency in customer service and technology delivery.
Customer Support Services
Having a great product is one thing, but effective customer support is paramount. An ideal phone system vendor should offer robust customer support services that assure potential clients of assistance when needed. Here are some factors to evaluate:
- Multi-channel Support: Check whether customer support is available through various channels, including phone, chat, and email. Having options means a quicker resolution to issues which is crucial for business operations.
- Response Time: Reaction time to inquiries should not be overlooked. Investigate average response times and their level of urgency in addressing issues. A vendor that takes too long can lead to a backlog of communication issues.
- Proactive Support: Look for vendors that offer not just reactive but proactive support as well. This includes monitoring their services for potential issues and addressing them before they escalate.
User Reviews and Testimonials
In today’s world, user reviews and testimonials act as the modern-day word of mouth. They provide insight into real-world experiences with a vendor, making this an invaluable aspect of your evaluation.
- Diversity of Feedback: It’s essential to gather a broad spectrum of reviews. This includes glowing testimonials as well as constructive criticisms to get a balanced view.
- Site Trustworthiness: Make sure that the sites you are checking reviews on are reputable. Information from platforms like reddit.com or facebook.com can provide rich, authentic user feedback.
- Case Studies: Some vendors often showcase case studies featuring their systems in action. Look for these as they can illustrate how the vendor handles challenges.
In sum, evaluating vendors involves a comprehensive look at their reputation, support services, and user feedback. Each aspect can significantly influence the level of service and the operational efficiency of your small business. By carefully analyzing these factors, you will be better equipped to select a vendor who aligns with your communication needs and goals.
Case Studies
Case studies play a vital role in understanding the dynamics of phone systems for small businesses. They not only illustrate real-world applications but also offer invaluable lessons that can guide potential buyers in making informed decisions. An insightful look into how other companies have implemented their systems can help clarify which features and types are truly beneficial. Moreover, such studies provide benchmarks against which similar businesses can evaluate their own needs and expectations.
When diving into case studies, a few specific elements stand out. Primarily, successful implementations provide a roadmap of best practices. They showcase how strategic choices in selecting and managing a phone system have positively impacted organizations. Successful organizations share their objectives, the steps they took, and the outcomes they achieved. By studying these examples, entrepreneurs can identify what works and potentially avoid common pitfalls.
Conversely, examining failures can be equally enlightening. These stories often reveal crucial oversights or miscalculations that led to undesirable results. Analyzing what went wrong helps other businesses develop a more mindful approach to decision-making.
Successful Implementations
Successful implementations offer goldmines of knowledge for small businesses contemplating their own phone system journeys. For instance, consider a small marketing agency named "Bright Ideas Marketing." They switched to a VoIP system that seamlessly integrated with their customer relationship management software. This integration allowed their sales team to track calls, connect with leads more easily, and improve overall client relations. The key takeaway from this scenario is the significance of integration capabilities. Choosing a system that fits snugly with existing business processes can lead to enhanced efficiency and productivity.
Additionally, take the case of "Tech Savvy Solutions," a startup that opted for a hybrid phone system. By leveraging both traditional landline features and VoIP capabilities, they created a flexible and robust communication strategy. The twin approach allowed them to maintain professionalism while enjoying the innovation that digital solutions offer. Here, the lesson is clear: understanding your unique operational needs and contacting a vendor that allows for tailored solutions can make all the difference.
Lessons Learned from Failures
Failure stories often hold the keys to avoiding missteps. A noteworthy example is a local retail shop, "Gadget Galaxy," which invested in a traditional landline system without considering their long-term growth. While it met their needs initially, it soon became a limiting factor as they expanded online. The lack of mobile access and integration with e-commerce platforms caused significant communication gaps, leading to lost sales and frustrated customers. The lesson? It is crucial to anticipate future needs rather than just addressing current ones.
Another glaring example emerged from a small law firm, "Diligent Associates," that decided to go with a budget VoIP provider. They were lured in by low monthly fees but soon faced chronic downtime and unreliable customer support. As a result, they missed critical calls from clients, damaging their reputation. The underlying message here is to assess vendor reliability and customer service thoroughly. Looking for user reviews and seeking testimonials can help avoid such pitfalls.
Addressing the successes and failures of others not only sheds light on effective practices but also magnifies the steps to take and those to avoid in the realm of phone systems. Hence, small business decision-makers can glean insights that foster better choices and encourage stronger communication strategies.
Future Trends in Phone Systems
In today's rapidly shifting landscape, phone systems are evolving at a pace that demands attention from small business owners and IT professionals alike. Understanding these future trends is crucial for ensuring that a business remains competitive and can meet its operational needs efficiently. The trends not only offer innovative solutions but also address changing employee expectations and customer interactions, making this knowledge an indispensable part of strategic planning.
Artificial Intelligence in Communication
Artificial intelligence is taking communication to the next level. Imagine not having to sift through dozens of voicemails or endlessly checking emails to find that one important message; AI can streamline this process. AI-powered virtual assistants can schedule calls, remind teams of upcoming meetings, and even summarize conversations for later reference.
- Enhanced Customer Interactions: AI can analyze previous customer interactions and help frontline staff provide tailored responses. If a customer calls in with a specific query, the system can instantly pull up the history of that customer’s interactions, enhancing the overall experience.
- Automating Routine Tasks: Churning out routine tasks like data entry or appointment scheduling can free up valuable time for employees to focus on more complex issues. This not only leads to greater efficiency but also increases job satisfaction.
A key consideration for businesses is how they integrate AI into existing systems. Investing in platforms that allow machine learning capabilities to grow in tandem with business demands will be a wise move.
"The integration of AI in communication tools has the potential to enhance not only efficiency but also employee engagement, as mundane tasks become automated, paving the way for more meaningful interaction."
Evolution of Remote Work Solutions
The shift to remote work has altered the communication needs of businesses. No longer confined to a physical space, companies are now required to adopt systems that facilitate seamless collaboration, irrespective of where their team members are based.
- Unified Communication Tools: Platforms like Microsoft Teams or Slack are merging various communication forms, from video to chat, into one cohesive hub.
- Flexibility and Accessibility: Remote employees need access to their phone systems from anywhere. Therefore, cloud-based solutions are becoming necessities, granting employees the tools they need no matter where they are located.
As remote work continues to be a norm, businesses should consider solutions that not only allow for flexibility but also ensure security and data protection. Choosing systems optimized for remote work can significantly enhance productivity and cohesiveness among teams.
The End
In wrapping up this comprehensive exploration, it becomes evident that the selection of a phone system is not simply about making a choice; it's about making the right choice for the unique dynamics of your small business. The myriad types available today—ranging from traditional landlines to cutting-edge VoIP systems—carry distinct advantages and intricacies tailored to a variety of operational needs. Each decision boils down to understanding your business’s specific communication goals, which may include enhancing customer interaction, improving internal collaboration, or ensuring a seamless transition to a remote workforce.
Recap of Important Considerations
- Understand Your Needs: Before diving headfirst into options, take a moment to assess what your business truly requires. Are you frequently on the go? If so, a mobile-friendly system may be crucial.
- Evaluate Features: Look beyond the surface; features like call forwarding, integration with existing tools, and mobile accessibility can make a daunting difference in daily operations.
- Watch the Costs: Keep in mind both the initial setup expenses and the hidden fees that can creep in over time. Always factor in maintenance and overage charges for a holistic view.
- Vendor Reputation: Research potential vendors thoroughly; customer support quality and reliability should influence your choice.
These elements represent the backbone of your decision-making process. Addressing them lays a strong foundation for a phone system that not only supports but also enhances communication efficiency within your organization.
Final Recommendations
Now that we’ve laid out crucial factors, here are some final recommendations:
- Conduct a Needs Assessment: Draft a clear picture of your communication objectives and needs. Use this as a blueprint while exploring phone systems.
- Test Out the System: Whenever it's feasible, consider trial periods. Nothing beats firsthand experience to gauge if a service meets your expectations.
- Integration is Key: Ensure that whatever system you choose integrates smoothly with your current technology stack. A cohesive digital environment is vital for operational efficiency.
- Prioritize Scalability: Opt for solutions that grow with your business. A system that adapts to evolving needs will save you from frequent costly upgrades.
In essence, investing time in understanding and selecting an appropriate phone system can translate into significant returns in productivity and customer satisfaction for your small business. Take the plunge, do your homework, and choose wisely.