Is your current business phone system holding your team back? Outdated hardware, poor call quality, and limited features can frustrate employees and cost your business valuable time and money. If you’re looking for a modern communication solution that delivers both quality and savings, a cloud-based phone system might be the perfect fit.
This guide will walk you through the key considerations of switching to a cloud-based business phone system. We’ll answer the most common questions business owners have, from costs and installation to potential concerns, helping you determine if this technology is right for your organization.
Is a Cloud-Based Business Phone Right for You?
Upgrading your technology can feel like a major undertaking, but understanding the process can make it much more manageable. Here are answers to the most pressing questions about switching to a cloud-based business phone system.
How Much Will It Cost to Switch?
This is often the first question business owners ask, and for good reason. Cloud phone systems are typically offered as a monthly service that includes the phone hardware. This service replaces your existing phone bill, often at a lower overall cost with greater flexibility.
While every project is different, pricing is generally based on a per-user plan. For example, a package for four phones might range from $60 to $120 per month, depending on the features included and services required. This service and moving the telephone numbers becomes your new phone bill, eliminating the existing one.
Is There Anything I Should Be Concerned About Before Switching?
The primary requirement for a cloud phone system is a dependable internet connection, as the phones connect to cloud servers to function. So, what happens if your internet goes down? Modern systems have several fail-safes.
The mobile app can be used on a 4G or 5G LTE network, ensuring you never miss a call. You can also log into a web portal to reroute calls to another location or a mobile device. Additionally, an auto-failover option can automatically redirect calls during an outage, keeping your business connected.
What Cabling Is Needed? Can I Use My Wi-Fi?
Ethernet (Cat5/6) wiring is the standard for connecting cloud-based phones, but you don’t necessarily need to run new cables. In about 95% of installations, the phones can share the existing ethernet jacks that your computers use.
If you don’t have available cabling in certain areas, many modern phones are Wi-Fi capable. As long as you have good Wi-Fi coverage, your phones will work seamlessly without any extra wiring.
What Does the Installation Process Look Like?
The installation is designed to be smooth and hassle-free. Once a “port date” is scheduled for moving your existing phone numbers, a technician will install the new phones ahead of time.
This allows for thorough testing of the phones and call functions before the system goes live. The entire process, from signing the quote to going live, typically takes one to three weeks and is managed by a dedicated project manager.
Will My Business Have to Shut Down During the Transition?
Absolutely not. Unlike traditional phone systems that required physically moving wires, switching to a cloud-based system is done electronically. The transition involves a few simple keyboard strokes to move your telephone numbers over and results in extremely minimal downtime, often ranging from no downtime at all to just a few minutes.
Your old system remains functional until the moment the new one is activated, ensuring a seamless cutover.
Why Should I Choose HRCT for My Phone System?
Instead of just saying “we’re the best,” we prefer to show you how we can help. Our approach is built on transparency and partnership. We start by discussing your current pain points and requirements for a new business phone system. From there, we explain how our solution will address those needs, outline the pricing and installation process, and answer any questions you have.
We want our customers to be completely satisfied, which is why we offer a 30-day, no-questions-asked return policy. Our team of in-house specialists handles everything from sales and programming to installation and ongoing support.
We manage the entire process, including filling out paperwork and coordinating with your current provider to move your phone numbers. With free lifetime training and a dedicated project manager, we make the transition to a modern phone system seamless and stress-free.
Upgrade Your Communications with HRCT
If an outdated phone system is causing headaches for your team and customers, it’s time for a change. A cloud-based business phone system offers a reliable, feature-rich, and affordable solution that can grow with your business.
With crystal-clear call quality, unified communications, and the flexibility to work from anywhere, you can empower your team and improve customer interactions.
At HRCT, we’ve helped countless businesses in Hampton Roads and beyond modernize their communications. We take full ownership of the upgrade process to ensure a smooth, hassle-free transition with zero downtime. Ready to see how a new phone system can benefit your company?
Explore our voice solutions through a consultation and discover a better way to communicate!