An Ideal VoIP Service Provider: Top 5 Factors to Consider
(Note: Infographic was created through Canva.com)
If you’ve shopped a VoIP service provider for your business, a client or the company you work for, you would understand how complicated and time-consuming this task can be, especially for someone who is not a VoIP expert.
For those who are just about to begin or are in the middle of the process of your VoIP service hunt, you can avoid the headaches by following the checklist below to make sure you make a right decision!
VoIP Service Providers Checklist – What matters and why?
Factor #1 Service Plan
The most important factor to consider is the service plan. You may be able to filter out most of the options in this step. Make a list and consult with your provider.
The monthly rate can range from $3/ month to $50/ month or up. While most VoIP service providers offer unlimited domestic calls, they usually have extra charge for calls to Canada or Mexico. Some even provide you customized plans or offer room for negotiation.
Also be sure to think about the following questions:
- Do they provide Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)?
- Do they offer money back guarantee?
- What’s their cancellation policy?
- Does the fee include a complete setup? (Most of them offer free activation)
Factor #2 Contract
Understand how long the contract will be before you sign anything. Typical contract terms include no early termination fees, pay-as-you-go, or even no contract needed.
Factor #3 Service Features
Pay attention to the features the provider offers. Aside from the basic phone features such as call hold, forward, mute, voicemail, and fax, you would also want to look at their advanced service features. Useful service features include CRM integration, Cloud storage, and management, unlimited extensions, advanced analytics, etc.
Factor #4 Numbers
Think about how may numbers you need for your business. Consult with your provider regarding keeping your old number, creating toll-free phone numbers or vanity numbers (spell a message in numbers) if you need.
Factor #5 Technical Support
Many people overlooked their technical support when choosing a VoIP service provider. It’s extremely important, especially for VoIP beginners. Make sure they have post-sale support. How flexible is the support? What communication methods are available? How much does it cost?
Understanding what matters is the first step to selecting an ideal VoIP service provider. VoIP Supply’s CloudSpan MarketPlace is your best resource to find you a perfect VoIP Cloud Service provider in a timely manner. If you have any questions or thoughts you’d like to share with us, utilize the comment box below!