UK Connected Business Cloud Phone System

How calls are dealt with could affect the customer experience, staff efficiency and business expenses for UK businesses. By investing in a cloud business phone system, businesses can enjoy a more flexible approach to communication that doesn’t require a single, static solution that’s limited to in-office devices. It’s specifically created for companies that wish to have a more simple and versatile telephony solution.

The organization of the system

Cloud business phone system is a telephone system that is hosted in the cloud and not in an actual office cabinet. This includes features like call routing, voicemail, user controls and number management – all of which are managed via a provider-managed portal. Work from a desk phone, mobile apps or desktop software – whatever is most comfortable for their everyday environment.

It is particularly helpful for businesses that operate in several locations or have remote employees. The phone system can be configured centrally, avoiding the need for hardware in one building, all while adapting to the changing business needs. This makes it easier to respond to staffing changes, office relocations and expansion.

Why UK businesses are moving in this direction

When it comes to companies selecting a cloud business phone system, part of the reason is that it’s no longer an expense item, but rather a monthly cost. Legacy telephony solutions may involve hardware purchases, installation and maintenance contracts. Typically, that is replaced by the cloud with a subscription approach that may be easier to budget.

Another benefit is flexibility. A cloud business phone system can be scalable to accommodate the growth of an organisation, adding users as necessary and eliminating complexity when it is no longer required. It’s also very easy to use for hybrid and remote working as it allows employees to continue using the same business number, wherever they are.

It can also alleviate the strain on internal teams on an operational level. The provider usually manages most updates, patches, backups and platform maintenance, freeing businesses to concentrate on their everyday priorities rather than on phone infrastructure.

In practice, features that are important

A good cloud business phone system should have the capability to do more than simply allow people to answer calls. Should enable teams to communicate in an organised and professional manner. Features include voicemail-to-email, call forwarding, auto attendant menus, call recording and call reporting dashboards.

There are also many businesses that enjoy the benefits of CRM integration, particularly those with sales or customer service departments that need to be able to access information about their callers at a moment’s notice.

A few considerations to take into account

• Strength of call quality and service stability
• User & extension management
• Familiarity with desktop apps, mobiles and desk phones
• Existing software tools integration
• Securing and compliance assistance

You don’t want staff to have to go through extensive training to use a cloud based business phone system. When the platform is hard to use, businesses will not make the attempt to use all the features of the system.

For smaller firms, why it’s appropriate too

Smaller companies tend to want communications that feel professional with none of the added complexity. A cloud phone system for small business can give the required calling functionality to support day-to-day business operations without compromising the image of the business to its customers.

A small business cloud phone system is also simpler to manage than a number of the older options. It typically has less hardware, less maintenance, and less expert knowledge. Local support and straightforward pricing may be key considerations for businesses considering a cloud phone system for small business in the UK.

How it is different from a regular phone system

Typical legacy phone systems rely on equipment that is installed in the office. This can make them more difficult to refresh and adapt to business changes. A cloud business phone system takes much of that burden off the shoulders of the company, so there are fewer physical restrictions and less maintenance work within the business.

Business cloud phone systems are much easier to adapt to if teams are becoming more mobile or in the event of an office relocation. Changes can typically be implemented via an online dashboard, rather than hardware work, if the business expands, moves or restructures. This makes cloud telephony more practical for swift moving organizations.

Choosing the right provider

The provider needs to be selected with care, just like the system. A cloud business phone system should have transparent pricing, reliable support, and an efficient configuration that suits the business’s needs. After migration, companies should inquire regarding support, service levels and migration assistance, number portability, and post-launch support.

One provider that provides communication services for organisations in the UK is Wavetel business. They’re just a concrete example of a supplier in this space to give the reader. The secret is to locate a provider that will be able to satisfy current needs without stifling future development.

It’s also a great idea to consider the overall integration of the phone platform with the rest of the business. If it can be synced to email, CRM, and collaboration applications, then employees will be more efficient and won’t need to switch back and forth between applications.

The continued growth of cloud telephony

Cloud communications are a reflection of the way businesses work today. Teams can be dispersed on multiple locations, and customers expect a fast and reliable contact. With a cloud business phone system, businesses can satisfy those expectations with a phone system that’s simpler to manage and more flexible to fit their needs than older telephony options.

This is a flexibility that also plays a role over the years. The system can typically be adapted to a growing business, a restructuring, a change in workflow, etc. without any significant disruption. That’s one of the reasons why small businesses in the UK still need a cloud business phone system.

Final thoughts

Cloud business phone systems are an effective way for businesses in the UK to modernize their communication. It minimises reliance on office equipment, facilitates hybrid working, and streamlines administration. It’s a solid choice for organisations seeking a phone system that can scale with them.

Call to action

When your business is interested in modern telephony, you should take a look at a cloud business phone system from Wavetel business to find out how it might be able to meet your communication requirements.

Published by blog.crecso.com.