A phone system is crucial to any business, especially a small business. As a small business owner you cannot afford the huge billboards, glossy flyers, and expensive websites that large companies employ in order to win customers, nor can you personally visit each of your clients, customers, vendors and franchisees. A reliable business phone system helps you keep in touch with the people that are important to your business.
The three major ones are KSU less, Key Systems and Private Branch Exchange. This article explains the different types and the advantages and disadvantages of each.
KSU Less Systems
The KSU Less Systems are the best option for small businesses. If you employ less than 10 people, then the KSU Less phones will give you all the necessary facilities.
Advantages of the KSU Less System
1.The KSU Less Systems can be transferred to other locations easily, since they do not require permanent electricity sources.
2.The KSU Less System is less expensive compared to other kinds of business phone systems.
3.You can designate particular extensions for different people.
4.Privacy is guaranteed through restrictions on calls to different areas and barriers against anyone accidentally listening to the conversation through another line.
5.KSU less Phones are not routed through a central control box. Therefore, you do not need to invest in additional space and funds to install a central control.
Disadvantages of the KSU Less System
1dotcompanies selling KSU Less Systems do not provide extensive installation and maintenance support. You need to install the phone system on your own, and take care of maintenance glitches as well.
2.If you are holding simultaneous conversations with two or more people, the conversations may cross each other.
Private Branch Exchange (PBX)
If your business has expanded and you need a bigger and more sophisticated system, you could consider investing in the PBX system. While the PBX is more expensive than the KSU Less, it is a good investment if you need additional features that are not there in the latter, of if you employ more than 40 people.
Advantages of PBX
1.The vendor provides installation and maintenance.
2.A single phone number as your official contact will reach all employees.
3.Possesses a Web Configuration facility.
Key Systems
With the Key Systems a central control unit or Key manages functions like dedicated lines for particular conversations.
Advantages of Key Systems
1.The Key Systems allow you to call another extension.
2.They are secure against someone accidentally overhearing the conversation on another line.
Final Thought
When investing in a business phone system, you must keep all the above points in mind. If you have a small business, you can use the KSU Less System since it is more cost effective. If you employ more than 10 people, then the PBX System should be a good option. The PBX Key hybrids that have been recently launched in the market are also worth a look. If you need to know more about the advantages of different systems, then you should consult a small business advisor.
David Gass is President of Business Credit Services, Inc. His company publishes a free weekly e-newsletter on Small Business Consulting at their web site smallbusinessconsultingdotcom