How to Select VoIP Services Provider
Big companies are usually equipped with business telephone system such as IP PBXes to deliver voice and video over a data network.
The problem arises when it is hard to find an IP PBX that meets the needs of your business and budget. There are two types of IP PBX business telephone systems. They are on premise IP PBX and hosted IP PBX. On premise IP PBX requires the company to purchase the operating equipment. Hosted IP PBX allows companies to use VOIP service that is delivered through an IP PBX service provider’s data center which is transferred over the internet.
A hosted IP PBX is much cheaper than on premise IP PBX. It also helps you to avoid disadvantages of buying your own IP PBX equipments. On premise IP PBX requires an upfront investment and the company have to manage the IP PBX themselves too. Your small business can outgrow in a few years and then you will have to purchase new IP PBX which will cost you more money. Therefore, it is more sensible to go with hosted IP PBX that is integrated with VOIP.
There are two kinds of VOIP providers. Some of them offer service that is delivered through the public internet while other VOIP providers control the IP links to your company’s premises. Public internet delivery is much cheaper but provider controlled access VOIP has higher quality. Small businesses that intend to use VOIP must have a fast internet connection.
When choosing VOIP provider, companies should check the history and reputation of the company. The best VOIP providers are those that are already in the phone business for a number of years. The provider must be financially stable, well managed and has highly trained staffs that are knowledgeable in their fields.
The VOIP provider should be committed to provide the best customer service. Whenever problem arises, they should be able to respond to their customers and solve their issues quickly.
Most of the VOIP provider offers plan that allows you to make calls within local and international destinations at a flat monthly fee. Vonage charges $24.99/month, Opex charges $44.95/ month, 8 x 8 inc. charges from $14.99/month, FonVantage charges $29.95 to $39.95/month, Lingo charges $39.95/month, and comes with free international calling to some locations. VoIP.com charges $24.95 a month for calling within US, Canada & Puerto Rico and $34.95/month for unlimited calling service.
Standard VOIP plan includes many useful features including PBX features, calling features, call waiting, sequential ring, do not disturb, cancel call waiting per call, call notify, call logs, speed dial 8, speed dial 100, and call forwarding. The standard VOIP features are usually included in every VOIP provider plan. The best VOIP provider will have a good plan that includes all the features you need for free. Line phone service provider will always require you to pay for these features.
The above are some of the things you should take into account when choosing your VOIP provider. If you follow these guidelines, you will be able to find the right VOIP provider.
