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Phone Systems

Phone Systems

 

Options for Phone Systems for Organizations

Multi-line phones. These systems provide the ability to share multiple phone lines across different phones. They can provide features like voice mail for each phone, auto attendant (i.e. “Press 1 for Bob…”), call transfer, etc. There are both standard phone systems with phone cords and cordless systems. This is the least expensive option beyond just a basic phone system, and cordless multi-line systems can start as low as $200-300. The limitation of these systems is that they usually can only expand to support a limited number of phones (maximum often ranges from 8-36) and also support limited features. Good for very small to medium organization (3-30 staff) with limited budget.

Centrex. With this option, all phones are provided by the phone company, which provides advanced features like voice mail for each phone, auto attendant, call transfer, etc. This option provides the easiest setup and maintenance, but will cost much more than other options in the long term. Generally each phone is charged a monthly fee as compared to charging for each line. Good for very small to medium organization (3-30 staff) that wants to avoid difficulty of setting up a phone system.

 

PBX/Key System. This option provides the most features for a large number of phones, without the monthly fee for each phone reducing the long-term cost as compared to Centrex. This option also has the highest up front cost and ongoing cost of maintenance. Most large businesses and non-profit organizations use this option. Good for medium to large organization (20-500 staff).

Bizfon: http://www.bizfon.com Base Brice: $1200 each handset $229

Centerpoint: http://www.talkswitch.com Base Price: $1495 each handset about $149

3Com: http://www.3com.com Base Price: $2,000 each handset about $350

 

Other Resources

http://www.soho-telecom.com/phone-systems/tutorial/tutorial.html

http://www.101phones.com http://www.hellodirect.com/

http://voipsupply.com/

Phone Conferencing

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  • Contact Sarah Rose (srose@netspoke.com or 781-528-2261) and ask for same prices as CTCNet

Free Conferencing: http://freeconferencecall.com

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