A cloud phone system might feel like unfamiliar territory. But there’s a treasure trove of benefits available to small businesses that make the move to a cloud phone system.

For both remote and office employees alike, the roll-out of cloud telephony has seen Ireland’s businesses access a host of features that weren’t available before.

To prove our point, we’re going to break down what cloud phone systems have to offer, and which phone system is right for you.

Cloud phone systems explained, part 1

To explain what a cloud phone system is, we’ll start with the traditional alternative – the “on-premise” phone system. Also known as a PBX (private branch exchange), an on-premise system is a call server hosted on your site.

What do we mean by a “call server”? It’s a piece of hardware that routes and switches calls between your business and the phone exchange. The PBX has been the bedrock of business communication for decades – but cloud is steadily taking its place.

Cloud phone systems explained, part 2

A cloud phone system takes all that functionality and hosts it in the cloud – in other words, in data centres hosted offsite. This means you no longer have to host the call server on your premises. More importantly, it means you can simply log in and access the system over the internet.

The knock-on effect is that you can access it anywhere, on any device. You can even handle business calls on your laptop, desktop or mobile, without the need for any desk phones.

If you’re looking for a phone system that’s future-proof and offers multiple benefits, then look no further than cloud. We’re living in the age of hybrid working, seeing a shift in the way we connect, and an increase in online and digital activity.

More and more Irish businesses are choosing to move over to a cloud phone system, and it’s easy to see why.

What are the benefits of a cloud phone system?

Cloud telephony is unmatched when it comes to benefits. We’ve put together the top benefits that businesses can expect from a cloud phone system.

Future-proof

Cloud doesn’t require a phoneline as it’s all internet-based. In the long term, traditional PSTN phonelines will be phased out in Ireland – so a cloud system will stand you in good stead for the future of internet-based calls!

Easy installation

With a speedy installation, your cloud phone system will be up and running quickly, allowing you a swift onboarding. Cloud phone systems are maintained by the provider, so you don’t have to lift a finger (other than to make a call!)

Cost savings

Cloud can offer all sorts of cost savings. By routing calls over the internet, you’re saving on the costs associated with a phoneline including installation, rental and maintenance. This can make calling a lot cheaper.

Robust security

We’ve mentioned that cloud systems are hosted in offsite data centres. With a system from GoldStar, these are rigorously managed and extremely secure. This means your data is, for all intents and purposes, under lock and key. Read our blog to see how cloud helps protect you against telecoms fraud.

Increased productivity

Transform the way you communicate with unified communication software that allows team collaboration and increased productivity. Delve into call analytics, call reporting, and call recording to optimise your business communications to get the most out of your phone system, and your team.

Flexibility and mobility

If there’s an internet connection, there’s cloud. You can access your calls, video conferencing and instant messaging on the go. This enables remote workers to enjoy all the same phone features as office-based employees. You can check their availability in real time, and transfer calls to them with a couple of clicks. This makes it extremely easy to run a hybrid workplace with maximum efficiency.

Scalable and adaptable

As your business grows, cloud telephony grows with you. You can add or take away users with ease, without needing to upgrade your system. Simply add or remove licences or features. On premise phone systems, by contrast, don’t have this flexibility, because they’re built with a maximum capacity of users.

How do I choose the right cloud phone system for my SME?

Several factors should be considered when choosing your cloud phone system. SMEs need to ask themselves:

1. Budget: how much are you willing to spend? Does it allow you the features and support you need?
2. Security: what level of security are you looking for?
3. Size of business: are you looking to scale?
4. Compliance: do you need to adhere to specific industry requirement?

Here at GoldStar, we offer tailored advice to help you find the best Cloud solution for your business. Check out Ericsson-LG’s iPECS ONE to discover all the features of unified communications, or read about the value a VoIP phone system adds to your business.

Final thoughts

To decide what cloud phone system is right for you, start by identifying the shortcomings of your old or current phone system. Then decide what features and benefits matter most to your business.

Each company is unique, and requirements can vary from industry to industry. SMEs will have different needs to large contact centres, so it’s important to iron out what you want from a phone system. Cloud may feel daunting, but change is no bad thing, and the upgrade helps protect your business.

GoldStar’s team of experts have helped many Irish business move to the cloud. Contact our specialists to get tailored, expert advice and to start enjoying all the benefits that cloud phone systems have to offer.