With cloud PBX, you can run your business communication. But, when evaluating solutions from cloud PBX providers, it's easy to get lost in a sea of features and services. Here are 10 features that most businesses should be looking for when they're evaluating a new solution from a cloud PBX provider.
Top cloud PBX features
Switching to the first hosted PBX service is no easy task. For one thing, there are some critical features that every enterprise should be looking for when they're evaluating a new solution.
1. Instant account provisioning
A good cloud PBX will let you add phones and users in seconds, without service downtime or interruption to your business phone lines. You should easily add new staff members with the click of a mouse, changing the business phone system from a cost center to an asset that can grow with your needs.
2. Auto attendant
Want an easier way to direct the caller to the right person? Look for a cloud PBX with features of an auto attendant. An automatic menu will allow you to route callers to specific extensions automatically, without having to train employees for each task.
3. Toll-free numbers
Using a toll-free number can give your business a professional image. But, with toll-free numbers comes the need to manage multiple extensions and billing options. Look for a cloud PBX service that allows you to manage both local and toll-free numbers from a single interface.
4. Centralized management
If you purchase your PBX equipment from a company phone system dealer, you might manage your PBX through an onsite appliance. But with cloud PBX, the management of features and services is done centrally by the provider themselves. Look for a solution that gives you centralized control of all your business phone lines - including toll-free numbers - without having to be on site.
5. Mobile apps
With mobility comes freedom. For both employees and customers, it's important to have access to your business phone numbers whenever you need them. Look for a cloud PBX solution that includes mobile apps so your entire staff can be productive - wherever they go.
6. Bring-Your-Own-Device (BYOD)
If you allow your employees to use their own mobile devices for business, it's critical that these be able to connect with your PBX. Look for a cloud PBX provider that can offer secure access to the system from any device - including employee-owned smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
7. Local number portability (LNP)
A good cloud PBX solution will allow you to retain your existing phone numbers when you switch, thus preventing loss of business. Look for a provider that offers LNP - the ability for customers to transfer their existing phone numbers with them to the new cloud PBX service.
8. Advanced call routing
Businesses need more advanced call routing capabilities than ever before. Look for a cloud PBX service that's easily customizable, whether you want to automate routing or set specific call paths according to time of day and day of the week.
9. Unified communications
Unified communications mean having all your business phone numbers, email addresses, and faxes in one place - accessible wherever you go. Look for a cloud PBX service that integrates with your existing communications systems - such as telephone and fax equipment, email clients, and web conferencing systems like Skype or GoToMeeting.
10. Audio conferencing
A good cloud PBX solution will let you hold group audio conferences from anywhere using any device - including smartphones, tablets, and PCs. Look for a solution that's easy to set up and manage - without the need for special training or equipment.
Hosted PBX features checklist
Every business is unique, so it's important to look at your specific requirements when evaluating a new hosted PBX service. While certain features certainly meet the minimum requirements, you should take the time to consider which advanced capabilities your business really needs.
