A small business phone system is essential for effective communications. Therefore, it’s vital that you invest in the best hardware and tech for your needs. This eliminates disruptions and lets your team continue doing their best.

Are you considering installing or update a phone system for your business? Interested in learning how to get it up and running? If so, then keep reading!

Let’s dive into what you need to know about setting up a business phone system.

What Is a Small Business Phone System?

A business phone system is a collection of telephone hardware and tech.

On the hardware side — systems include:

• Phones
• Headsets
• Dialers
• Switches

…and the like.

On the tech side — you’re looking at:

• Call forwarding
• Conferencing
• Voicemail
• Queues

…and so on.

An organization usually gets a few business phone numbers for their needs. The system’s tech allows individual touch-points by way of telephone extensions. The extras provide quality of life features to make phone time easier and enjoyable.

Types of Phone Systems for Businesses

There are a few phone systems one can explore for their business — including:

• KSU
• VoIP
• PBX

A KSU system is about as traditional as you can get. The system is set up using a central control device much like the old switchboard of yesteryear. The controller routes phone calls through many lines to their intended employees.

A VoIP system leverages the Internet for its phone capabilities. Messages exchange through digital packets and convert on the other end. Hardware is digitized, letting businesses explore phone system features without a physical setup.

A PBX is a hybrid phone system combining hardware and digital technologies. It may use traditional hardware (like controllers) but also leverage VoIP tech. PBX systems are often reserved for larger organizations.

Configuring a VoIP System

Let’s suppose a VoIP system was the best solution for your small business. With hardware in place and services set up, it’s time to configure the basics.

Begin by getting a headcount of how many people need phone access. Give yourself some wiggle-room by adding a few extra lines to account for growth. Then, test your system to ensure it can handle the load and shop around for VoIP services.

Get quotes from several VoIP providers and find which suits your budget and needs.

Order phones from the provider or through third-parties. Follow the instructions to set up the hardware and then connect to your virtual services. Use on-screen prompts and guides to work through the setup process.

This is your time to configure items like call forwarding, voicemails, and such.

Finally, make a few phone calls to test the system’s performance. Call in a few times, too, testing out its features and capabilities. If everything handles fine then you are good to go with your new phone system!

An Alternative Option

You can choose to partner with a VoIP system provider. In doing so, providers set up VoIP systems as part of their subscription packages. This includes the basics for virtual calling to full-on PBX systems hosted on-site.

Get Help With Your Business Phones

Do you need help setting up a small business phone system? If so, then reach out to our friendly professionals here at ON DRIVE TECHS! We’re delighted to explain business phone options, installation, and on-going services.

Learn about phone systems on our site, through our blog, or by getting in touch.