PBX VoIP Features to Help Grow Your Small Business

Any small business utilizing an IP telephony setup for more than two lines needs an efficient switching system to enable internal calling between users.  Aside from being economical, PBX VoIP systems are only practical for the business that requires multiple extensions for its users.

Market analysis reveals the rapid migration to business VoIP phone systems, upgrades that are occurring in large part because of efficiency, performance and cost benefits.  All organizations, including those interested in small business VoIP systems, should consider a PBX VoIP solution.  Whereas PBX systems were traditionally so cost prohibitive that only large companies could afford to use them, technological advancements and emerging open-source solutions have helped to dramatically lower the price of robust business VoIP systems.

When combining the technologies, PBX VoIP systems are able to offer unparalleled benefits to businesses of all sizes.  Below we have listed some of the basic and advanced features of these effective business VoIP solutions:

Standard Features

Voice Mail and Voice Mailboxes - A quality PBX VoIP system should permit an unlimited number of voice mailboxes, offering advanced functionality such as the ability to automatically record all incoming and outgoing calls. 

Call Forwarding - Programmed, manual and automatic call forwarding to any number.  In a complete business VoIP solution, this feature also includes the ability to place callers on hold with options for selecting hold music and programming messages regarding hold time length.

Conference Calling - Enables internal and external multi-party conference calls.  More advanced VoIP PBX phone systems also grant the ability to administer and remotely manage extensions at other branches as if they were local offices. 

Web-based Management - Quick and easy management of the business VoIP phone system from a standard web browser.  Capabilities generally include the ability to incorporate end-user management and configuration along with seamless integration into an existing data network.

Advanced Features  

Call Queue - Allows calls to be conveniently placed into queues so they can be answered by designated extensions. 

Call Center - Enables businesses to configure calling and answering groups for select tasks such as sales, services and marketing.

Remote Office Functionality - Enables the integration of offsite locations and allows them to function as if they are a part of the central office. 

Administrative Console - A built in control panel that manages calls and various functions from a centralized VoIP PBX software interface. 

Automatic Routing - Automatically routes calls to staff regardless of their physical location.  Calls can usually be placed simultaneously to multiple locations.

Fax Option - PBX VoIP feature that enables faxing to each individual user’s inbox.  

PC Calling - Often referred to as click-to-call, PC calling allows calls to be made and received over the internet with a personal computer.  This PBX VoIP feature is great for cutting down costs associated with mobile phone calls.  

Emergency 911 - A reliable business VoIP solution will automatically transmit the physical address of your location to emergency personnel when dialing 911. 

A Feature Not to Be Overlooked

Aside from all of the above mentioned attractive features, one attribute that must accompany a PBX VoIP solution is quality customer support.  Hosted business VoIP service providers generally offer a range of options for service and ongoing maintenance.  This is critical as some companies have a set number of hours in which network support is provided.  We suggest looking into a company that offers around the clock support with customer service available 24/7.  Support items will play a large part in the overall price of service so be sure to inquire within the provider about all of your options.

Cutting Edge Technology   

Offering convenience, efficiency and cost savings, it looks as if business VoIP solutions are here to stay.  When utilizing a stable system packed with the latest technology, you can remain one step ahead of the competition and scale your business for even more enhancements.