When it comes to choosing corporate phone systems, businesses have a myriad of alternatives. Various vendors offer these services and provide advanced features like call transferring, call metering, and conference calling. So, how do you narrow down the hundreds of options available? For any company, the procedure can be time-consuming and difficult. Here are the top five tips to help you select the best phone service provider and plan for your organization.

Check the plan features thoroughly
The first thing to consider is the features in the chosen package. Does it have everything that could help your company? Some benefits may be excluded if you subscribe to a basic plan. A few features to look for are call forwarding, call logs, online meetings, and other useful connectivity tools. Some of these might cost extra depending on the size of your organization, so clarify with the provider before signing up.

Estimate the total ownership cost
No doubt, cloud phone plans for small enterprises are affordable. However, while the package price appears low, consider the entire cost of ownership (TCO). How much will the additional equipment and phones cost? What will be the price of upgrading your data network? Also, remember that some of your staff may require training to use the new system. These minor expenses can add up to a sizable portion, so evaluate your return on investment (ROI) for the long term.

Analyze your current infrastructure
Evaluate whether the business phone system you are considering will function with your current infrastructure. Is there any older equipment that needs to be replaced or upgraded? Perhaps you will need a second internet connection just for VoIP. Making these modifications requires both time and money. A Private Branch Exchange (PBX) may be required to route calls to the appropriate destination. PBX systems are typically housed in a server room or closet. If you do not have in-house experts, you may need to hire someone to evaluate your current network and install the necessary equipment. Some vendors will provide this function for a minimal fee or even free. Allocate plenty of time and resources to assess (and update) your current arrangement.

Access your current and future requirements
Determine whether the phone solution meets your present and future needs. Your company may be small right now, but you never know what will happen in the future. Over the next few years, you could see remarkable growth and expansion. Or, your company could remain stable for the next decade with no significant changes. Consider both scenarios when subscribing to a phone system. With cloud VoIP, you can effortlessly add and remove lines as needed, and new employees can be assigned numbers in minutes.

Check for mobile support
Many people work remotely and keep moving from one location to another. Your phone system must accommodate commuting and remote workers. So consider a mobile-friendly plan. Your staff should be able to work on the go with cell phones, tablets, and laptop computers.

Upgrading to VoIP business phone systems may be the best thing you can do for your company right now. Your monthly bills will be reduced instantly. These phone systems are also highly beneficial for improving employee productivity and collaboration. So, contact a service provider and begin the procedure right away to reap the benefits!