Cloud PBX Office Telephone – How to Choose an IP Phone

IP phones are an integral part of a cloud PBX office telephone systems, it is not a mere handset that you talk into but rather a collection of hardware and software that converts, deciphers and translate into the voice that we hear and understand. Business owners should be very careful in selecting the proper make and model of IP phones to avoid costly mistakes and to be able to maximize the cloud PBX system. Listed below is a quick rundown of things to watch out for in selecting the proper handsets for your business.

Firmware – Is the collection of software that runs the handset, it should be compatible with your service provider’s cloud PBX office telephone provider to avoid incurring extra cost for configuration and programming during the set up. Ask your provider about the version and developer of firmware that they support to avoid such hiccups and extra cost. 

Support mechanism – Not all cloud PBX office telephone providers are able to offer 100% support services to all brands and models of IP phones. There are several brands that have their own paid customer service regardless of whether you use their PBX or not. Be sure to discuss this with your provider first and gauge the level of support they can offer you on the brand that you are eyeing on.

Features compatibility – All IP handsets works using a firmware there are still some compatibility issues that may arise during the actual deployment concerning features like greeting messages and other forms of IVR. It is advisable that you opt for the make and model that undergone the testing phase of your provider to ensure that all is properly working.

SIP lines – There are business owners that wish to use multiple SIP lines for back up and cost purposes. If you are considering such set up then it is advisable to acquire a handset with multiple SIP line capabilities that either switch manually or automatically.

Programmable buttons – Different businesses have different requirements thus various models are out in the market today. Choose a model that have enough buttons for your needs or better a lot a few extra just in case you need more in the future.

Overall use – Different staffs have different roles, thus it is just a must to select handsets based on the function that is required per staff. For an instance your receptionist will need a reception style desk phones with big and chunky buttons for easy navigation, a wireless phone for on the go staffs and so on. Be sure to take all possible options into account to acquire the best possible units for your business.