Hardware Connect

So you think your business is finally ready to acquire a VoIP service? Well, think again. It is not as easy as you think it is. The process of choosing your VoIP provider is crucial. It must be carefully thought out, especially now that VoIP providers offer a wide array of VoIP plans, pricing, and features. You might find yourself feeling lost with so many offers you can find.

Here’s a list of top ten features you should look for in a VoIP service. Make sure to check if these features are available through your potential providers.

1. Call routing and forwarding
Calls are meant to be taken. If your business is always unreachable, what’s the point of having a phone system? You should be accessible to your clients all the time. That’s why it is important to have a call routing and forwarding feature. No matter where you are, your calls can be routed or forwarded to your mobile phone or laptop anytime.
2. Voicemail
If you are really busy and cannot take calls immediately, then you should have voicemail capability. Most VoIP services usually offer this kind of feature so you will not miss any call.
3. Faxing
Aside from making and receiving calls, you should also check if the VoIP provider offers Internet faxing. This feature is essential for easier and faster document exchanges. And because you are connected to the Internet, it is also possible to send fax messages internationally.

4. Conferencing
Every now and then, your business will require you to hold your meetings in a virtual environment. For this, you can look for providers who offer conference calls through VoIP.
5. Web-Based Administration Interface
Through a web-based administration interface, you can easily customize the settings and preferences of your calls. Just make sure that you only provide access to authorized, knowledgeable, and trustworthy people so your system will not be compromised.
6. Call logs
Call logs store details such as date and time, caller IDs, dialed numbers; even duration of the calls can be traced.
7. 911 access
Access to 911 is clearly a feature to look for. Unlike before, VoIP can now make calls to 911 so your business can get any help it may need in the future.
8. Email Integration
Another great feature is the integration of calls and notifications into your email client. Microsoft Outlook can be configured so it can receive voicemail and fax messages, add the caller to your address book, and many more.
9. Directory
Your VoIP service should also include features like dial-by-name directory or easy navigation for reaching your employees. This is ideal for companies with a large number of employers.
10. Support
Finally, the most important feature to look for in VoIP services is the support of the provider.
This should include customer assistance and technical support. It also includes user guides, manuals, FAQs, and live chat. A VoIP service provider is only as good as its ability to assist their customers.