When shopping for a cloud-based business telephone system, what is your top concern? Likely, cost is going to weigh heavily on your consideration list. So, how do you figure out what works with your budget?
As frustrating as this may be, it really depends on your situation.
Cloud-based telephones have two components: System Essentials (company-wide features) and User Seats (individual phone features).
System Essentials include features you need at each business location, such as E911, incoming/outgoing lines, caller ID, conference bridges, etc. Depending on your features, call paths, and number of locations, this cost can range anywhere from $20 to $100.
Your User Seats include features needed for each individual phone. While one staff member might need a basic set up, another needs to handle high call volume or to work away from the desk. This is where “it depends” really does mean “it depends”.
Low Traffic User – Lobby or Kitchen Phone
- Basic telephone line
- User license
- Local outbound calls
Moderate Traffic User – Standard Desk Worker
- Basic telephone line
- User license
- Inbound/Outbound calling
- Voicemail to email
Moderate Traffic User – Mobile Worker
- Standard features
- Twinning on mobile devices
High Traffic User – Receptionist
- Standard features
- Online presence indicator
High Traffic User – Busy Executive
- Standard features
- Unified communications
- Conference calling
- Mobile twinning
High Traffic User – Contact Center
- Standard features
- Call queues
- Reporting
- Recording
- Call tracking with robust data
From the very basic seat (in the $20 range), to the highest level (in the $60 range), combined with the number of call paths and locations, there is no standard answer to the question because truly, it depends.
Want more information? We can get the conversation rolling!