From the title of this post, you may be thinking, “I never use my office phone, I am constantly on my mobile”. Although that may be true for some, large corporations and call/contact centers still rely on a desk phone or softphone. Do you still need your desk phone? Read this ebook that asked the same question. If you do think you still need your desk phone, keep on reading!
First things first. Do you want a desk phone or a softphone? Do you know the difference?
Deskphone
The standard, analog, hand-held telephone. If you haven’t switched over to VoIP you are probably using a desk phone. Often telephony providers are compatible with most phones on the market. The only difference would be is that instead of using a traditional landline, you would connect the phone to the businesses IP network. Businesses may prefer to keep their desk phones because they are familiar with how they work, easier to use and saves them money.
Softphone
You do not actually need the physical phone with a softphone. A softphone is a software application that the user can download onto their computer. They are able to make phone calls over the internet instead of using the physical hardware. You connect a headset and microphone to your computer and there is an on-screen dial pad.
Both
If you still prefer the touch and feel of a physical phone, you can purchase phones that are compatible with SIP. Some companies have a mix of phone desk phones and softphones in their office. This is beneficial for employees who may be traveling or away from their desk. VoIP is extremely flexible and allows you to switch from Deskphone to Softphone.
Now that you know the difference between the two, what option is the right choice for you or your business?
There is no right or wrong answer. It depends on many variables like your; needs, budget, type of business, etc.
Nevertheless, whichever option you choose, there are many things to consider.
Your Budget
Softphones are the less expensive option. Especially if you have to supply many employees. But some employees may prefer a desk phone. Desk phones are known to have better voice quality which would ensure all calls to be clear. What do you choose, quality or quantity?
Product Stability
Are the desk phones sturdy? How is the hardware?
How is the application of the softphone? Is the software compatible with your device?
Has other customers had problems in the past?
Could the phone break? Could the program crash?
It is important to make sure what you do purchase is going to last. VoIP is an investment that will benefit your company in the long term, but only if you do your research before choosing the product.
Support
How is the support after you purchase your desk phone or softphone? Does the manufacturer offer a warranty? How do they handle technical issues? What happens if there is a glitch in the software for your softphone? How do you contact the support team?
Time is money. You do not want to waste time on the phone with support or unable to make calls because your system has failed. Make sure you choose a reputable brand with good reviews on their products.
Brand
Just because they are a well-known brand, that does not mean you have to choose them. But, what it does mean is that there are probably many customer reviews on their products. This is a chance to hear what real end users are saying about the product. Their likes and dislikes about the product and potential problems they had dealing with support teams. Sometimes new brands in the industry are the better choice over the Vets. Do your research.
Maybe you start off by buying softphones and slowly purchase desk phones for employees who prefer one. UC applications like Bicom Systems, gloCOM, and gloCOM GO are great for integrating your desk phone with your mobile so you can potentially eliminate your desk phone altogether. But, desk phones are not going anywhere anytime soon. Flexibility is the name of the game these days for companies. Businesses that make it possible for employees to work functionally wherever are going to go farther in the industry. Maybe you offer both, maybe you offer one or the other.
Our ebook will take you through the latest alternatives and complements to the desk phone so you can make an educated decision on how to go forward with your decision. Download it here.
If you are having trouble choosing, send us an email at sales@bicomsystems.com. We would be happy to lend our expertise based on your situation.
