Phone systems & VOIP

When buying an office phone system, the key thing to look at is not just the price of a particular system but the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) instead, which is the price you pay for the physical phones, software and service provided by the dealer. Purchase the phone system on the basis of the functions, features, expandability, upgradeability and service available with the phone system and not just the price of the phone system as that can leave you with minimal performance and service levels.

The cost of phone systems vary with the type of system you intend to purchase. For example:

• The price of key systems and hybrids will generally vary between £175-£500 per user depending on the type of features available.
• PBX systems may be available at about £400 per user, but typically, they cost over £500.
• KSU-less systems are the least expensive of the lot costing only between £65 and £110 per phone. While cost-wise, a KSU-less system might seem quite attractive, they are suitable for offices with very few employees. If your office needs a phone system to cater to more than 10 employees, then it is advisable to opt for one of the other types of phone systems.

Therefore, look for a phone system that can accommodate future upgrades without having to revamp your entire phone system. Making a choice based on a long-term view will serve to be immensely beneficial in the long term.

There are five key components that determine the price of every phone system:

• The Base System: The base system is the central controlling device that operates the phone system. The price of the base system starts from £500 and can increase with additional features or enhancements.
• The Actual Phone: These are the individual units we see on the desk of every individual which are connected to the base system. There are different types of phones that are available in the market which can cost from less than £50 while better service and sound quality features are available in phones priced in the range of £100-£150.
• Phone System Add-ons: Phone system add-ons include applications such as: CTI, music on hold, auto attendant etc. these feature can increase the cost of your phone system by thousands of dollars. Manufacturers or dealers may provide phone system deals as a package providing the base system, specific features and a specified number of phones.
• Wiring and Installation: Wiring and installing the phone system depends on the type of existing wiring facilities in your office location. Price can vary depending on the extent of wiring required to get your phone system in action.
• Service and Training: Training, programming and service contracts can increase the total cost to own the phone system.