Phones and Devices
This is the fourth installment of our series, “How to Buy a New Office Telephone System.”
In our last blog, we identified 20 of the top features that most modern phone systems have to offer today. This installment of our ongoing series will focus on the types of phones and devices one can employ in new business communications solutions. The list is much bigger and more diverse than the last time you bought your phone system.
Business Phones
- Executive Telephones—These are larger phones with color screens, touch screens and one-touch feature access.
- Standard Desk Telephones—This is your regular office phone that offers some amenities, but not as many as the more expensive models.
- Basic Business Telephones—Ideal for kitchens, libraries and lobbies, these phones are stripped down to deliver the bare necessities.
- Softphones —Software installed directly onto your computer, laptop or mobile device, allowing you to use your device. It’s as reliable as your computer, but it wins points for convenience and price.
- Wireless Phones —Perfect for receptionists and employees who frequently move about the office, this allows them to always be within reach no matter where they are located.
- Door Phones—These are typically placed next to security gates or access doors. With a direct connection to the receptionist or designated employee, they can screen the caller and even remotely unlock the gate or door.
Specialized Business Communication Devices
- Answering Position—These specialty phones are typically reserved for receptionists, because they allow the user to see the status of every phone user. They are designed for high volume calling applications.
- Audio Conferencing Unit—Lovingly nicknamed the “starfish phone” by many, this purpose-built phone provides 360º microphone coverage, better sound quality than a desk phone and options for extended microphones.
- Fax / Alarm Lines—Typically, these dedicated analog lines are already in place. They can be replaced by Internet-based solutions. You can even keep your fax machine if you want, but eliminate the analog fax lines. It’s another way to modernize and save money.
- External Loud Ringer—Utilized within large spaces, where employees are able to hear a ringing phone throughout the building. These are great for warehouses, kitchens and manufacturing plants.
- External Paging System—This allows phone users to access an external set of speakers and announce a message to a large area.
Obviously, there are no shortage of communications devices available for today’s business communications solutions.
Be sure to stay tuned for the next blog in our series titled, “Provider Information”.
