Is a Cloud-Based Phone System Right for My Business?

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Cloud technology has made its way into many aspects of business, from data storage to development platforms. Cloud-based phone systems provide an opportunity for companies to upgrade their existing phone service, but some decision-makers are hesitant to embrace the cloud until they know whether it’s right for their business. Use this guide to learn the answers to the most common questions about cloud-based phone systems.

How does a cloud-based phone system work?

Similar to other cloud-based technology, the vendor sets up and configures the phone system with their resources. The business connects to the cloud-based phone system over the internet to access the service without needing to deploy it on-site.

What makes cloud-based phone systems different from the company’s current solution?

A traditional PBX commercial phone system requires a significant resource investment to house the necessary equipment. The upfront cost is significant, and the company also needs a place to store the hardware. A cloud-based system eliminates the need for PBX equipment, as the cloud provider handles all of the hardware on their end. The setup and configuration process are streamlined due to the cloud, which makes changing settings and features an easy process.

How does a company benefit from adopting a cloud-based phone system?

Cloud-based phone systems incorporate advanced features that would be expensive or impossible to attain through a PBX-based system. Eliminating the upfront equipment purchase makes these systems more accessible to small- and medium-sized companies. Ongoing cost-efficiency comes from working with a vendor that provides continual upgrades and handles maintenance and troubleshooting. Businesses can upgrade and downgrade their service as their needs change, and they can quickly get up and running.

Can companies transfer their numbers to cloud-based systems?

Organizations can seamlessly shift their existing numbers to the new system, eliminating the need to update company materials. Keeping the same number also conveys professionalism to the business’ customers and clients.

Is the cloud reliable?

Cloud-based phone systems often end up being more reliable than on-site PBX systems. Companies that have electrical outages or other disasters occurring at their main headquarters can still access cloud-based phone systems since the equipment is at a different geographical location. This redundancy makes it possible to continue normal phone operations even if the rest of the company’s systems are down.

Will cloud-based phone systems become obsolete shortly?

Cloud-based technology has the advantage of being continually developed by the provider to incorporate the latest innovations. Companies automatically receive improvements to their service whenever they’re added.

Is a cloud-based system right for a small or medium business?

Some companies may rely on a basic business phone or even their personal cell phones to handle their offices’ communication needs. One reason they use this approach is due to the expensive investment required for PBX systems. Cloud-based systems offer product tiers that are suitable for small businesses while giving medium-sized businesses the features they need to continue expanding. Is your organization interested in seeing the power of cloud-based phone systems for yourself? Whether you want to decrease your voice communication costs, need a professional system for connecting with customers or you’re seeking the flexibility of the cloud, you stand to benefit from adopting this robust technology. Contact us today to get more information about the right cloud-based phone system for your company.

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We’ve recently transferred our business telephone services from one of the big telecom companies to Unite. I have to admit – we were nervous to switch to a small company after only dealing with ‘Big Telecom’ for decades. All I can say is that I wish we had switched over to Unite years ago! Every communication and dealing I’ve had with them (in several different departments) has been amazing. It feels exactly like dealing with a local business where they care about you as a client, offer a good quality service/product at reasonable rates and have competent, smart people working for them.

Sarah Giovannone

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I wish I had found Unite sooner. We were using Rogers all these years with nothing but problems. The hold times trying to get service was just unbearable. A friend recommended Unite and I’m so glad they did. Cheaper than both Rogers and Bell with so many more options. Switching over was a breeze. I highly recommend Unite Communications for your business.

Mike Goldlist

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Other than the quick customer services and reasonable pricing, we were much impressed with the website design, too. Before we switched over from Bell to Unite, we were very hesitated and gone to a number of websites to check out their SNR services.
 
Once we saw the Unite site, all our concerns regarding the switch-over were answered: plain and simple. we called and the customer representative was very knowledgeable, reassuring and friendly.
 
Since then, we have a few special requests and these were answered promptly and great suggestions were provided. We would and have referred Unite to a few of our friends/vendors.

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I’ve been with Unite for over 2 years. I work in Account services, setting up clients with new business tools such as Unite Hosted PBX, Conferencing and Virtual Attendant. I also work with internal teams to ensure all customer requirements are met. My Operations background is an advantage because I’m able to help our customers immediately. I love introducing our clients to new products that assist them in improving communications with their clients. My goal is always to ensure the process runs smooth on both sides. Happy customers are my best measure of success. I’m Margarita Asatrian and I work at Unite.

Margarita Asatrian

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I have been on the Unite team for over 14 years. Watching the company evolve and grow into one of Canada’s fastest growing companies (2 years in a row) is a privilege and a source of pride. In addition to sales support, I work with customers to make sure the onboarding process is organized and efficient. I continue to support our clients as their needs also evolve and grow. I believe the team, and how we work together to ensure we offer the best product and service, is the primary reason for our organic growth. 

 

One of things I like best about Unite is that it’s 100% home grown. We are Canadian owned and operated. At a time when many companies were letting go of staff (or exporting jobs to foreign markets) we were growing and creating jobs at home. It makes me happy to be a continuing part of it.

 

I’m Christine Nicoll, and I work at Unite. Visit us at unite.ca

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I am a Customer Service Specialist for Unite. I have been a part of the team for over two years. Having the ability to make someone’s day makes my job very satisfying. A positive customer service experience and happy customers influence the attitudes of my entire team. My job is important and my role is key to the team’s success.

Giving my full attention to the customers and their concerns is the best tool I use to respond to an issue or circumstance in a timely manner. When customers observe a quick response time, it shows our respect and commitment to the customer’s time. I love to see the customers happy by being able to solve their problems.

Working for a company with continued growth gives me a lot of peace of mind. I look forward to watching Unite grow. I am fortunate to be a part of this growing company.

I’m Marta Woszczyna, and I work at Unite.

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I have been on the Unite team for over 2 years as a Business Development Manager – responsible for helping customers find solutions to understand and solve their business telecom challenges. Customers are often surprised how easy it is for us to streamline their telecommunications with affordable, flexible and reliable alternatives. We are able to customize a solution for each customer, making the experience both personable and actionable. Unite is a great place to work. Looking forward to implementing and sharing our next iteration of projects. I’m Jeremy Rozen, I work at Unite.

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As a Business Development Associate for Unite, I work with potential and existing customers to demonstrate products and answer their questions. I believe strong communication skills, excellent customer service skills, relationship management skills and an in-depth knowledge of Unite’s products or services are the best tools to be successful. Most of the time, I continue to be the main point of contact even after the final purchase is made. When this happens, I know I have done right by the customer. I am a people person, when the customer is happy, I am very happy. 
Our products and services make it easy to continue to assist customers. I help assess any current business constraints and will introduce the customer to relevant services that can have a large impact on productivity. Unite also provides me with a lot of flexibility. We don’t just sell Unite services – we use them. This allows me to work from the cottage when I need a break from the city. I have a central office, wherever I am. This flexibility has made a positive impact on me both professionally and personally.
Working for a company that I believe in and believes in me is awesome. I am Margaret Sutton, and I work at Unite.

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