Small to midsize enterprises (SMEs) are rapidly migrating to cloud-based Unified Communications-as-a-Service systems. UCaaS provides cost savings, increased flexibility and scalability, driving SMEs to abandon traditional on-premises systems for feature-rich cloud communication platforms.
Cloud systems eliminate the need for costly on-premise hardware, maintenance and upgrades. Migrating to the cloud is a great option for organizations with legacy phone systems that have reached end-of-life or end-of-support.
UCaaS also supports mobile and remote workstyles, allowing employees to access full phone system features through PC and mobile apps. Services often include advanced tools such as video conferencing, AI-powered call analytics and CRM integration. Organizations can add or remove user licenses as they grow or downsize, preventing the need for additional in-office equipment.
Despite the benefits, successful migration to UCaaS requires careful planning to avoid business disruption during the transition. It’s also critical to select the right UCaaS provider. Here are 10 key questions to ask before choosing a cloud phone system.
- Does the solution include all the features I need? Almost all cloud-based phone systems have desktop and mobile apps, voicemail transcription, and other basic features. However, organizations often need advanced call-handling features. Ensure that the solution has all the functionality needed to manage calls.
- Can the solution be customized? Customization allows organizations to tailor communication methods, automated menus and user features to their specific needs. Look for a web-based portal that makes it easy to adjust call flows, add/remove users, and configure settings.
- Will the solution integrate with other business applications? Integration with business applications streamlines workflows and gives staff immediate access to data. Choose a provider with a robust integration ecosystem.
- Is the user interface intuitive and easy to use? A simple, intuitive interface makes it easy for users to adopt the cloud-based phone system without extensive training. Request a demo to ensure that the system is user friendly.
- Does the solution have AI-powered features and analytics? AI-generated summaries and sentiment analysis and real-time dashboards can help organizations derive greater value from their systems. Ask if the provider offers these features and if they’re fully integrated into the platform.
- Is the solution flexible and scalable? In today’s dynamic marketplace, it’s difficult to predict changing requirements over the lifespan of a phone system. Make sure the system will scale up and down and make it easy to add capabilities as needed, with transparent pricing.
- What are the SLAs for the system? Business-class phone systems should be backed by guaranteed “five nines” uptime. Ensure that the provider has geographically distributed data centers and ask for a history of service disruptions over the past three years.
- Is the solution secure? Strong security is vital to protect sensitive conversations, customer data and intellectual property. Ask what controls the provider has in place to secure the system and meet regulatory requirements.
- Does the provider offer professional services? Few organizations have phone system specialists on staff. Look for a provider that offers an end-to-end solution, with professional implementation, integration and support. User training services are a plus that can streamline adoption and maximize ROI.
- What is included in the pricing? Most cloud-based phone systems operate on a per-user, per-month subscription model, but there are often hidden fees and unexpected charges. Be sure to clarify what is included in the pricing structure.
Verteks has a long history of delivering enterprise-class phone systems for organizations of all sizes. We will assess your needs, customize a solution, and provide expert deployment, integration and support. Let us show you how a cloud-based phone system can take your business communications to the next level.
