The Role of Virtual PBX Systems in Maximizing Productivity

How would you feel if we told you that a single decision could improve your productivity by 77 percent? Excited? Incredulous? Maybe a little of both - but it's the truth. It happens when you switch to virtual PBX systems. That’s because they're packed with capabilities designed to make your day-to-day workload easier and better.  

It Keeps Your Employees Connected, No Matter What  

Grammarly put it best when they said, "Work no longer takes place 100 percent in the office, but teams still need to communicate 100 percent of the time." For small businesses or those who've worked in the trades, this was true well before the pandemic began. Whether they're installing cables, repairing a roof, or fixing a technological issue, you're often on the road more than you're in the office, which can lead to missed calls, service delays, and frustrated customers.

However, if you have a Cloud9VoIP virtual PBX system, all these issues become a thing of the past. Its softphone application can turn your ordinary cell phone into a secure business line. This allows you to:  

• Project a professional image even when you're away from the office.  

• Use your existing device for business calls - no need for additional hardware or services.  

• Embrace the flexibility of remote work without sacrificing communication quality.  

• Access advanced features like call forwarding, voicemail, and conference calling directly from your cell. 

Not in a place where you can take calls? No problem. Our app allows you to reroute your calls instantly so you can stay focused exactly when you need to be. 

It Makes Customer Care Faster and Easier  

Communication with your customers should be smooth, swift, and satisfying. Virtual PBX makes providing that kind of communication much easier with a bevy of time-saving features.  

• Effortless Call Routing: With Cloud9VoIP, you can customize call routing based on business hours, departments, or even specific employees. No more wasted time searching for the right contact – calls go straight to the intended recipient.  

• Voicemail to Email: Missing important voicemails is a thing of the past. Cloud9VoIP's Virtual PBX ensures that voicemails are converted to emails that are promptly sent to the right person, allowing you to respond swiftly and keep your customers happy and informed.  

• Call Analytics: Our platform allows you to track call volumes, peak times, and customer preferences, helping you discover new ways to update, tweak, and ensure your services are operating at maximum efficiency. 

It Streamlines Your Day-to-Day Operations  

Even the most productive team can be held back by outdated systems and complicated processes. A virtual phone system from Cloud9VoIP removes the typical productivity hurdles, clearing the way for your employees to shine through with the following:  

• Efficient Collaboration: Cloud9VoIP's Virtual PBX system integrates seamlessly with other communication tools, promoting efficient collaboration. Whether it's instant messaging, video conferencing, or file sharing, your team can stay connected and collaborate effortlessly.  

• Real-Time Updates: Keep everyone informed in real-time with features like instant messaging and group chats. Cloud9VoIP ensures that your team is always in the loop, making decisions faster and more effectively. 

It Makes Your Resources Work Smarter, Saving You Money  

In today's competitive business landscape, every penny counts. Virtual PBX systems help small businesses save approximately 45 percent each month on communication costs. Especially compared to traditional phone systems. Here's how:  

• No More Long-Distance Charges: Because Cloud9VoIP utilizes VoIP technology, their platform eliminates the need for traditional phone lines and significantly reduces long-distance charges.  

• Scalable Pricing: Cloud9VoIP offers scalable pricing plans, ensuring that you only pay for what you need. As your business grows, your communication costs remain manageable and aligned with your budget. 

It Supports Stress-Free Growth  

When you're growing, your phone system shouldn't stand in your way. This is why Cloud9VoIP designed our platform to scale quickly and simply whenever you need it. With us, your administrative team can:  

• Add or Remove Extensions Easily. Cloud9VoIP allows you to add or remove extensions with just a few clicks. This flexibility ensures that your communication system adapts to the changing needs of your business effortlessly.  

• Expand Without Infrastructure Overhaul. Traditional phone systems often require a complete overhaul when a business expands. Cloud9VoIP's virtual PBX system can expand your company without extensive infrastructure changes.  

• Integrate With Third-Party Apps. Our platform connects easily with various third-party applications – from CRMs to project management – ensuring data flows easily between them all.  

Your Journey to a More Productive Workplace Starts with Cloud9Voip  

All these features, coupled with our commitment to personalized service, make Cloud9VoIP the go-to solution for businesses looking to optimize communication, streamline operations, and fuel growth. And, unlike big, faceless providers, our team is here to help you every step of the way. We're just a phone call away if you have any questions or are ready to talk shop. 

Cloud Communications: The Key to Modern Business Success?

Since the beginning of 2020, over 93 percent of businesses have dived headfirst into cloud communications. Their results, three years later, are nothing short of impressive. Studies revealed that companies that jumped to cloud communication witnessed a 47 percent increase in ROI, 46 percent happier customers, and a 32 percent uptick in their employees' productivity.  

Thanks to a myriad of benefits, cloud communications have become more than a temporary fix. They are now ingrained in our daily work routines. But what exactly is "cloud communications," and is it the key to success in our modern world? Just keep scrolling, and you'll find out. 

What is Cloud-Based Business Communications?  

Cloud-based business communications are communication services, like voice, messaging, and collaboration tools, that operate using the internet and cloud computing technology. Why is that such a big deal?  

In the "pre-cloud era," communication systems were confined to the office. They consisted of physical phone lines and on-premise servers that handled all your calls and messages. But now, cloud communications allow companies to break free from this stereotypical setup. It takes all these functions off-site, moving them to virtual servers typically managed by a third-party provider. 

This enables greater flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness for companies regardless of size and industry. More on that later. 

How Do Cloud Communication Platforms Work?  

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) - sometimes called "cloud telephony" - is the backbone of all cloud communication platforms. This protocol enables voice and video calls to be transmitted over the internet, eliminating the need for traditional telephone lines and allowing cloud communication to exist at all. 

But cloud communications platforms can do much more than just make and take calls. Messaging, video conferencing, and various collaboration tools are integral parts of the package. This combination of services and features is often known as Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS), and it's transforming the way we look at communication.  

6 Ways Cloud Communications is Changing Business Communication 

1. Allows for Easy Setup, Use, and Management  

Are you concerned about setting up cloud communications? No PhD in tech is required. With cloud-based communications, there's no need for fancy installations. Just sign up and log into our web-based portal. Cloud9VoIP does the rest, from installation to day-to-day management. That's right, when you need more features or more users, you just give us a call and we'll have it done in minutes. Now you can stop worrying about your phones and start taking care of business. 

2. Enables Remote and Hybrid Work  

Did you know that over 98 percent of workers want to work from home? Well, cloud communications can make that desire a reality, allowing your employees to use your voice, video, and messaging tools from any location and device without losing quality.  

According to one study, remote job listings receive double the number of applications as in-office listings. 

Not only does this satisfy your employees and boost company morale, but it also opens you up to a broader talent pool. After all, you're no longer limited to the confines of your city or state. With cloud communications, you can find – and keep – excellent employees from anywhere with an internet connection. 

3. Increased Employee Satisfaction  

Happy employees, happy business. Cloud communications boost employee satisfaction by offering flexibility. Gartner, a leading tech research and consulting firm, warns that companies risk losing up to 39 percent of their workforce if they insist on full-time office work. Employees are seeking better work-life balance, and cloud communications provide the ticket to a stress-free, engaged workforce. A win for them is a win for you. 

4. Reduced Operating Costs  

Cloud communications solutions don't require a considerable investment in more office space or specialized hardware. Are you concerned about maintenance and upgrades? Cloud9VoIP's got that covered. We offer a single online platform for voice, messaging, and collaboration at a low monthly rate. This translates to lower costs and a happier finance department. 

5. More Streamlined Workflows  

Communication shouldn't be a bottleneck in your workflow. Thanks to its built-in flexibility, Cloud9VoIP's communication platform can easily integrate with business software, breaking down information silos and streamlining data sharing. It's like having your business in your pocket. 

6. Expanded Communication Channels  

As mentioned earlier, cloud communications from Cloud9VoIP encompass far more than just calling. This is great, considering 73 percent of customers want to be able to reach you on multiple channels – not just one. One of their favorite channels, especially for Millennials and Gen Z, is texting. Yes, it's "newer," but it can set you apart in your industry if used correctly. For instance, texting can:  

• Speed Up Support. Imagine you're running a repair shop. A customer facing a technology issue can simply record a video of the problem and send it via text, allowing your team to diagnose the problem ASAP. 

• Improve Real-Time Collaboration. Say you're managing a landscaping business. Your crew is on-site, and a client wants to make a last-minute change to the garden layout. Instead of playing phone tag, the client can send photos and ideas via text, ensuring everyone is on the same page instantly.   

• Delight Your Customers with Convenience. One excellent example of this is a customer of ours - a paint store. They allow their customers to order custom paint via text. All the clients must do is take a picture of the QR code on the paint bucket and text it to the store. The store then mixes the color for them, so it'll be ready by the time they arrive. It's both efficient and delightful. 

At Cloud9VoIP, we encourage our customers to come up with new and exciting ways to use texting and mobile apps. We want our customers to know that our platform supports more than simple word texts, and that these new and creative uses can improve customer service and customer experience.

Dare to Succeed with Cloud9VoIP  

Ready to embrace all the benefits a cloud communications platform can provide? Then, it's time to reach out to our team at Cloud9VoIP. Our solution has all the features you want at the price point you need, no matter your size. Plus, an S-tier support team that's ready to answer your questions day and night. Just give us a call and experience it for yourself!

Everything You Need to Know about Small Business PBX Systems

If you've heard about "small business PBX systems" but aren't quite sure what they are or how they can benefit your business, you're in the right place. We'll be demystifying this critical tool and delve into why it's a game-changer for your business, no matter how small your company may be. 

What is a Small Business PBX System?  

Let's kick things off with a quick definition. PBX stands for Private Branch Exchange. In simple terms, it's like a sophisticated switchboard for your business phone system. Only in our modern age, it's not a physical switchboard anymore but a virtual one. It manages your internal and external calls using the internet, ensuring seamless communication within your organization and with the outside world.

You might be thinking, "I'm too small for phone systems like those." But the truth is, you're not. Even if you're a business with just one phone, having a PBX system is a necessity.  

Why Your Small Business Needs a PBX System  

It Boosts Your Overall Professionalism  

In the business arena, first impressions are key, and Cloud9VoIP's small business PBX system makes you sound like you're in a high-rise – no matter your size. Imagine a potential client calling your business. Instead of encountering a generic voicemail or endless ringing, they're greeted by a friendly, automated attendant ready to direct their call to the right place at the right time. Plus, it provides other features like customized voicemails and on-hold music, guaranteeing that each interaction is as positive and professional as can be. 
 

It's Easy to Scale  

Small businesses are champs at adapting and growing. Traditional phones? Not so much. Here's where the Cloud9VoIP PBX system shines. Whether you're opening a new office or streamlining operations, a PBX system like ours can easily scale alongside you. Because it's all virtual, you can add or remove phone lines as much as you need without the hassle of rewiring or reconfiguring an entire system.  

Concerned about the initial hardware investment? Cloud9VoIP's got you covered with our Equipment as a Service solution. Check out our blog or website to learn more!

It Future-Proofs Your Business 

Now, what the heck does future-proof your business mean? It means that when you invest in a small business PBX, you're investing in your future. Why? Because these platforms are constantly being upgraded with the latest and greatest features, functions, and security measures. Instead of having to shell out extra cash to upgrade to a different phone system every five years, those upgrades are included in your monthly Cloud9VoIP subscription. You can stay ahead of the competition without lifting a finger! 

4 Major Benefits of Small Business PBX Systems  

1. Cost-Efficiency 

When it comes to small businesses, every penny counts. Traditional phone systems involve hefty investments in hardware, maintenance, and managing local and long-distance calls. A Cloud9VoIP PBX system doesn't have any of that baggage. It operates over the internet, slashing communication costs by nearly 75 percent to give you a budget-friendly, top-tier solution.

2. Streamlined Internal & External Communication 

Wondering if your colleague is up for a chat or swamped with work? Our presence indicator tells you in a snap. Hunting for important emails? Use Cloud9VoIP's built-in instant messaging to send a quick question to colleagues. 

For external communication, small business PBX systems have features that help you connect with clients and partners better. Intelligent routing sends calls to the right person or department, and voicemail-to-mail sends missed calls straight to your email inbox. It's like having your own personal assistant! 

3. Improved Customer Service 

Successful businesses are constantly looking to improve their service. A PBX system from Cloud9VoIP can help you do it with features like:  

• Call Recording: Get the lowdown on customer interactions, helping you improve your team's skills or settle disputes. 

• Real-time Analytics: Accurately track call volumes, response times, and all the other juicy details from our simple platform. No crystal ball is needed.  

• CRM Integration: Our PBX system easily connects with your CRM. Now, your staff can access customer information instantly and make every customer feel like a VIP.  

• And that's just the start.

Better service leads to happy customers, which leads to repeat business and positive word-of-mouth – a win-win for any small business.

4. Flexible Work 

The future of work is hybrid, and PBX systems will ensure you're ready for it. Thanks to our softphone application, your employees' computers or mobile devices can turn into fully functional, highly secure office phones. No need for complex setups or extra hardware! Just download our app and go. It's the kind of flexibility you need to stay ahead in our increasingly digital world.

Find Your Perfect Small Business PBX with Cloud9VoIP  

Now that you know all the benefits, it's about time you experienced them for yourself. What better way to experience them than with the premiere small business provider – Cloud9VoIP. With us, you can expect:

• Hyper Customization. No two businesses are the same, so their communication systems shouldn't be either. Cloud9VoIP customizes each offering for each individual customer. To us, it's not about fitting your business into a pre-set mold but creating a solution that fits like a glove.  

• Equal Treatment. We aim to provide a professional presence for every business, regardless of size or setup. No matter how small your company is, you'll get the same high-quality solution as our biggest customer. 

• Service That Goes Above & Beyond. We do whatever we can to guarantee your success. Whether staying up late fixing an annoying glitch or taking an emergency call on the weekend, our team is ready and willing to come alongside you and help.

Ready to get a solution that finally fits? Then reach out to the Cloud9VoIP team today, and we'll get you started.

Choosing the Right Business Phone System for Competitive Customer Service

Selecting the right business phone system is non-negotiable if you want to gain the upper hand in customer service. But with so many options available, each claiming to be the best, how do you cut through the noise and make the wisest choice for your company?  

Look for the following three signs.  

3 Signs You're Picking a CX-Boosting Business Phone System  

Your Team Is More Accessible to Customers 

According to PWC, about 80 percent of consumers in the US believe that speed and convenience are two of the biggest pillars of a positive customer experience; the right business phone system can help with both.   

• Multi-channel communication capabilities: Today's customers reach out through various channels - phone calls, emails, texts, and more. Cloud9's business phone system lets you manage all these channels in one place, so no message goes unnoticed. Now, you can respond to customers' emails as quickly as their calls, leading to faster resolution.  

• Seamless call escalation via presence and other features: Sometimes, an issue needs to be escalated to the right person. A modern phone system lets you see who's available and bring that employee into the conversation/conference call in just a few clicks. No need to put the customer on hold!  

• Automatic call forwarding after hours, so no calls get missed: Customer issues don't clock out at five. With an intelligent phone system, calls can be automatically forwarded to an available team member or a dedicated after-hours support line. This ensures that your customers are heard and helped around the clock.  

Streamlined Call Management 

Approximately 90 percent of customers want an "immediate" (ten minutes or less) response when they have a customer service question. And if they don't reach an agent within that window? At best, they'll hang up and try again later. At worst, they'll find another provider. But don't worry. Your phone system can help you avoid those pitfalls.  

• Efficient call routing for quick issue resolution: No one likes to be bounced from one agent to another, explaining their issue repeatedly. An excellent phone system uses intelligent call routing based on the customer's needs. This means the call lands in the lap of the agent who is best equipped to handle that specific query, increasing the chances of a swift resolution.  

• DIY Call queues that reduce wait time: Long wait times can turn even the most patient customers into frustrated ones. Cloud9 allows you to build your own call queues based on customer preferences. And with callback options, customers can hold their place in line without waiting on hold, giving them some control over their wait experience. You might be surprised at the big difference this small touch can make.  

Personalized Customer Interactions 

According to a McKinsey study, when customers receive a personalized shopping experience, it doesn't just boost sales, but it can also slash marketing and sales costs by as much as 20 percent. Here are a few ways your business phone system can help you do it:  

• Provide customizable greetings and messages: Your customers' experience begins the moment they call. With Cloud9, you can customize greetings and messages to reflect your brand's personality. This personal touch sets the tone for a positive interaction.  

• Give you access to call history for personalized service: Imagine your customer doesn't have to repeat their story every time they call. Cloud9's business phone system stores call history, giving your team the context to provide personalized and informed assistance. This saves time and shows your customers that you value their time and loyalty.  

Get the Business Phone System That Sets You Apart from the Start!  

In the race to stand out from the crowd, a superior business phone system is your secret CX weapon. If you're ready to wield it and wield it well, Cloud9VoIP can help! We offer the perfect hosted phone services to take your customer service to the next level. Contact us today to discuss what solution will best fit your business. 

How Hosted Business Phone Systems Ignite Remote and Hybrid Work Success

The statistics don't lie - hybrid work has become the new norm - with a threefold increase in hybrid job postings over the past four years alone. However, this transformation comes with its own unique hurdles, the most pressing being communication.   

Guaranteeing clear, instant, and reliable communication among team members scattered across the globe is a puzzle many businesses are still scrambling to solve.  

Enter hosted business phone systems.  

Understanding Hosted Business Phone Systems  

A hosted business phone system, also known as a cloud-based phone system or Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) system, is a communication solution that allows you to manage your phone communications through the internet rather than using traditional on-premises hardware and phone lines.   

This type of system is provided and maintained by a third-party service provider, which hosts and manages all the necessary equipment and software in their data centers, and they are the bedrock of successful remote and hybrid work strategies. Here's why.  

Hosted Business Phone Systems Offer Flexibility in Communication  

One of the cornerstones of flexible work is the freedom to work from anywhere. Because Cloud9VoIP's hosted phone system is internet-based, it can function almost anywhere and on virtually any device. Employees can use the same business number on their laptops, smartphones, or tablets, meaning they can enjoy uninterrupted communication with colleagues and clients no matter where they are.   

Here's an example of what these services can mean for your business. Jenna is a sales executive who divides her time between the office, home, and client visits. Now that her business has adopted Cloud9's system, she can switch between her office desk phone, mobile app, and laptop based on her current needs. With the Cloud9 solution, she never misses a crucial call or opportunity – even if she's on the road or traveling abroad.   

Hosted Business Phone Systems Offer Enhanced Efficiency through Integration  

That's five working weeks, or nine percent, out of their work year. The number could be even larger for some remote and hybrid teams. That’s a substantial figure and translates to a significant impact on productivity. 

However, hosted business phone systems can solve some of these efficiency drains. Cloud9's hosted system, for instance, can easily integrate with a wide variety of tools. Video conferencing? Check. Instant messaging? Check. It's a DIY Unified Communications platform. Now, your employees can hop from a phone call to a video conference to a team chat within a cohesive ecosystem.  

You can also integrate other tools with your hosted phone system. Take Markus, a project manager juggling multiple teams across different time zones. He integrated his Cloud9 system with project management software. Now, Markus can seamlessly schedule conference calls, share updates via chat, and hold video meetings, all in one place. One simple integration eliminated the need for constant app-switching, boosting his productivity and aligning his teams.  

Hosted Business Phone Systems Boost Productivity with Advanced Features  

Hosted phone systems offer a treasure trove of advanced features that encourage productivity. Features like intelligent call routing ensure incoming calls always reach the right person, reducing delays and improving customer service. Voicemail-to-email functionality means critical voicemails are never lost in the ether. Employees now receive them directly in their inboxes, guaranteeing prompt responses.  

Consider David, an IT specialist troubleshooting technical issues remotely. With Cloud9's call routing, he can escalate calls to the appropriate experts immediately. Voicemail-to-email ensures that he doesn't miss urgent messages from his team even when he's elbow-deep in server configurations.  

Hosted Business Phone Systems Offer Unmatched Cost-Effectiveness and Scalability  

With traditional phone setups, each worker needs their own physical phone line, resulting in sky-high costs and a tangle of wires. But hosted systems? They operate over the internet, nixing the need for pricey hardware and complex installations. All your team needs to communicate are devices that can connect to the internet. And, of course, Cloud9's softphone app.  

Cloud9's hosted systems can also accommodate changing team sizes and locations. New lines and features can be added with just a 30-second phone call, allowing you to expand with the greatest of ease. Whether your team is in the office, at home, or hopping between the two, hosted phones ensure everyone stays connected without burning through your budget.  

Hosted business phone systems are the basis of hybrid and remote success. The benefits they offer – flexibility, efficiency, and productivity – are not mere buzzwords but practical solutions that empower you and your employees. So, are you ready to usher in a new era of work for your employees? Cloud9VoIP offers the perfect hosted business phone systems for remote and hybrid work models. Contact us to start personalizing your system today! 

3 Tips for Managing a Hybrid Working Model with VoIP

Picture this: a work arrangement that seamlessly combines the freedom of remote work and the camaraderie of in-office teamwork. It's like having your cake and eating it too – and it's called the hybrid working model. And believe it or not, 75% of employees prefer this model over any other. They think it makes them healthier, happier, and more productive.  

And your VoIP phone system can be a gateway to those benefits. We're going to show you how. We've got three terrific tips to help you handle this hybrid work setup using VoIP. Especially if you choose to partner with Cloud9VoIP. 

TIP 1: Set Flexible Call Routing and Forwarding  

Doing so will ensure that your VoIP system efficiently directs calls to your appropriate team members, regardless of location. This is particularly important for a hybrid working model where employees might work from different places. Take advantage of features like:  

• Auto-attendants. Guide callers through a menu to reach the correct department or individual, enhancing caller experience and reducing misdirected calls.  

• Call queues. Efficiently handle high call volumes by placing incoming calls in a queue and distributing them based on availability, ensuring timely responses.  

• Find-me/follow-me. Enable calls to follow an employee, ringing their office phone first and then forwarding to their mobile device, calls can ring to both devices simultaneously ensuring accessibility wherever they are. This feature can also be set to a time parameter so business calls do not ring on the customer's cell phone after hours.  It can also be easily turned off manually. 

These features collectively ensure precise call routing, whether team members are in-office or remote, especially because they can edit these call routes from their app. Or easily get assistance from the help desk. 

FUN FACT: On Cloud9VoIP's platform, all of this can be managed from one online platform. 

TIP 2: Use VoIP-Based Meeting Tools to Keep Employees Engaged  

Employee engagement is crucial for productivity, especially in a hybrid working model. Remote employees often lack equal access to information, professional growth, and acknowledgment compared to their in-office counterparts, which can inadvertently lead to status and opportunity gaps. But don't worry. You can get ahead of, or even repair, those gaps. Just follow these steps:  

• Utilize Unified Communication Tools. Invest in a comprehensive communication platform that integrates VoIP, video conferencing, instant messaging, and file sharing. This enables seamless interaction between remote and in-office teams across various devices. Features like presence indicators facilitate real-time communication and productivity.  

• Establish a Consistent Schedule. Create a reliable schedule for team meetings, project updates, and brainstorming sessions. Ensure remote employees can effortlessly join these meetings, eliminating technical barriers. This enhances overall engagement and keeps everyone on the same page.  

FUN FACT: With Cloud9's platform, you have access to all the communication tools you need. Which means they only need to download one app to access all their in-office features out of office. 

TIP 3: Take Advantage of Cloud 9’s Training and Support  

A healthy hybrid working model is only as healthy as your communication strategy. And the level of training your team is given. You may be thinking, "Training? I barely have time for another Zoom meeting!" If you are, don't worry. Cloud9 will handle training for you! Here are a few things you can expect from a partner like us:  

• Detailed docs and user-friendly tutorials covering all VoIP aspects, accommodating different learning styles, with step-by-step guides for setup, calls, contacts, and advanced features.  

• Host in-person or virtual training with live demos, Q&A, and hands-on practice for direct employee engagement.  

• Provide help via email, chat, and phone, including remote access tools for swift issue resolution with employee consent, both in-office and remote.  

All this training will contribute to a smoother communication experience and minimize disruptions. No matter if you're in the office or not.  

BONUS TIP: Regularly Evaluate and Adjust Everything  

The hybrid work landscape is constantly evolving, and your VoIP solution and communication strategies must evolve with them. This involves gathering feedback from team members on their platform experience and satisfaction. Then putting this feedback to good use. 

FUN FACT: With Cloud9's 24/7/365 support, you can make adjustments quickly and easily whenever you need to. Just give us a call or send us an email. 

Thinking of Going Hybrid? Cloud9VoIP Can Help.  

Successfully managing a hybrid working model with VoIP communication is essential for modern businesses seeking flexibility and productivity. Cloud9's cutting-edge VoIP solutions offer the ideal platform to seamlessly integrate remote and in-office teams, fostering collaboration and efficient communication. Take the first step towards optimizing your hybrid workforce by reaching out to Cloud9VoIP today and exploring how our feature-rich VoIP systems can improve your business. 

Exploring the Power of Hosted Phone Systems: Features, Benefits, Pros & Cons

No matter your industry, odds are you've heard of a hosted phone system before. And odds are you've had questions. Questions ranging from "What exactly are they?" to "What exactly could they do for me?" Today we will explore the answers to those questions and more. Starting with the most pressing one.  

What is a Hosted Phone System?  

A hosted phone system (sometimes called a cloud phone system or a VoIP phone system) is an entirely virtual telecommunications solution. This means all its infrastructure – from the phone lines to the operating system – is stored in the cloud. And typically, it is managed by a third-party service provider. You only need to worry about having a stable internet connection and SIP-compatible devices.  

Features of a Hosted Phone System  

Now that we have a definition, let's talk about some characteristics many of these systems share.  

They offer unified communications. Hosted phone systems often include unified communications features, integrating voice, video, text messaging, and collaboration tools into a single platform. And since it's all hosted in the cloud, employees can tap into these capabilities from any internet-connected device. 

They offer quick-and-easy call management. These features include call routing, forwarding, recording, and interactive voice response (IVR) menus. And they help streamline incoming and outgoing calls, ensuring callers are directed to the correct department or person. 

They boast a whole library of advanced features. Hosted phone systems have a wide variety of capabilities, like voicemail-to-email transcription, call analytics, call recording, conferencing, and more. These features can boost your communication capabilities and provide valuable insights for improving customer interactions. In fact, 67% of employees say it’s easier to handle calls on hosted systems than any other type. 

They're equipped with disaster recovery. Traditional phone systems are vulnerable to disruptions caused by natural disasters or technical failures. Hosted systems provide robust disaster recovery mechanisms, ensuring your business remains reachable even in challenging circumstances.  

A Hosted Phone System: Pros & Cons   

Now that we've explored some of the features of a hosted solution let's summarize what we know. It's for a pros and cons list. After all, you want to know if a hosted phone offering fits your needs.  

Pros:  

• Quick Implementation. Setting up a hosted phone system is faster than deploying a traditional system. This speed is crucial for businesses needing to adapt swiftly.   

• Cost Efficiency & Predictability. Hosted phone systems eliminate the need for hefty upfront investments in hardware and maintenance. Instead, Cloud9 allows you to pay a predictable monthly fee based on your extensions, saving you between 30-50% on communication costs. And if you choose Cloud9, the price won't fluctuate based on usage either. 

• Flexibility. Hosted phone systems offer unmatched flexibility in terms of adding or modifying features, making them an excellent fit for businesses with dynamic communication needs.  

• Scalability. With hosted systems, scaling up or down is effortless. With Cloud9, you can call or email at any time to add new lines or features. Their experts will make those changes immediately, reducing errors and keeping your communication in-line with your latest requirements. 

• Reduced Maintenance. With off-site management and automatic updates, hosted systems relieve businesses from the burden of ongoing maintenance tasks. With Cloud9, you'll have a team on your side that provides personal, proactive system management. Because you deserve more than the standard set of updates. 

• Global Accessibility. Reach customers and partners around the world without incurring exorbitant international calling charges.  

• Plug-and-Play Integration. Seamlessly integrate your phone system with other business tools to streamline processes and enhance customer interactions.  

Cons:  

Like all good things, a hosted system does have a few limitations you should be aware of.  

• Internet Dependence. Hosted phone systems require a stable internet connection to function properly. So, if your internet goes out, your communication will be negatively impacted. However, Cloud9 offers 4G LTE backups, allowing you to power your devices using data instead. 

• Data Security. Relying on the cloud means entrusting sensitive communication data to third-party providers. Robust security measures are essential to safeguard against breaches. Which is why Cloud9's security features end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and everything else. 

• Audio Quality. Internet fluctuations can affect audio quality, leading to dropped calls or unclear conversations that could negatively affect your employees and your customers. But thanks to LGTE connections and failover solutions, this rarely happens. 

Want to Make the Switch? Check out Cloud9VoIP.  

Adopting Cloud9VoIP's hosted phone system can significantly enhance your business communication capabilities while minimizing costs. The advanced features, scalability, and reliability offered by Cloud9VoIP will empower your team to work efficiently and deliver top-notch customer service. Take the next step towards optimizing your communication infrastructure by contacting Cloud9VoIP today and discover how their cutting-edge solutions can drive your business forward.