Upgrading to a hosted VoIP phone system for your business is no small feat. As demand increases, more and more options are available, making it more difficult to discern which provider and plan is right for you. Before signing the contract, be conscious of these critical criteria:

Easy Deployment & Management
Typically, all that is necessary to deploy hosted VoIP solutions is an IP phone, a voice gateway device, and a voice router. Providers usually give you the option to install your own equipment or have a professional do the job. If you choose professional installation, an account manager is assigned to act as a liaison and ensure that everything goes smoothly.

Once installed, administering your system should be simple. An online portal which requires minimal training allows you to manage your system and access support services easily and in a timely fashion.

Quality-of-Service (QoS) Benefits & Security Safeguards
Proactive monitoring of the network to ensure proper performance and around the clock support is crucial. The system should also offer appropriate security measures, which should include monitoring user logins to prevent hacking, and ensuring that passwords adhere to industry standards and are encrypted during use.

Considering the extensive list of network and security requirements, choosing a solution that is fully managed by your provider is a smart option. Whether there is an issue with your network or service, you only need to contact one company.

Avoid Hidden Charges
It’s true that hosted VoIP services can be a more cost-effective alternative to traditional phone services, however, you must beware of hidden costs and charges. Always read the fine print before choosing a vendor.

Vendor History & Financials
While hosted VoIP has been around since the late 90s, some providers are still in the early stages of deployment. You will want to choose a vendor who has solid experience and a trustworthy reputation.

Disaster Recovery
Be sure your provider has a disaster recovery plan in case of natural disasters like floods or earthquakes and that it is included in your plan or contract. Do not assume that it will be provided – You do not want to be stranded in an emergency situation.

Features
Some features that you may think are standard may not be included (ex. call forwarding). Go over the features offered within your plan and be sure everything you need is included (popular features include auto attendant, Internet fax, conferencing, and call recording). Inquire about seat types as every function in your business is different and this should be addressed. Be sure your provider can cater to your specific needs with hardware and feature packages that simplify your purchase while offering cost-effective pricing.

If you choose the right provider and plan, hosted VoIP phone systems can save your business money as well as offer a multitude of features you may not have had access to previously. If you currently employ a hosted VoIP system, share your experiences with us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.

Visit Startechtel.com to browse our selection of new and refurbished IP phones, VoIP phone systems, and telephone equipment. If you have any questions, please feel free to call 800-564-8045.

Tags: Criteria for Hosted VoIP, Hosted VoIP Systems, VoIP, voip phone systems