Hosted PBX Feature Checklist

By Ryan Ayers
Updated: February 14, 2011

One of the biggest selling points of hosted PBX (Private Branch Exchange) systems is the wide variety of features and add-ons that they make available to businesses. Features that were once reserved only for extremely large companies are now available with most hosted PBX systems.

Below, we’ve listed a few of the many features typically available that many businesses could not live without today. If you are looking into switching your business’ telephone system or service package, these are some of the features that you should be looking for in your new system.

Follow Me/Find Me

This feature essentially has your phone system track you down if you’re waiting for a call. Following a list of numbers that you’ve programmed in, the system will try each one of the numbers in succession until it reaches you. This feature is particularly handy if you’re always on the go.

Call Allow List

This is another essential productivity feature. This feature will allow you to set calls to be blocked or allowed depending on the sender or originating area. This is the perfect solution to prevent being interrupted during meetings, but allowing for an important call.

Call Record

This can be an invaluable tool for going over detailed conversations at a later time. Rather than having to have a separate piece of equipment which often results in poor playback clarity, this feature can be integrated into your PBX system. Most areas have restrictions or specific laws applying to consent for recorded conversations.

Intercom/Paging

These features can usually be operated independently or in tandem and allow you to broadcast messages and locate employees that aren’t always within easy reach of the same extension. This is perfect for businesses whose employees are always in motion or for a large dynamic area such as a manufacturing floor.

Night Service

This function allows your system to be switched to a “closed” mode, and a message relayed to your customers advising them of business hours and other relevant information. This is a particularly effective feature when combined with an auto attendant or dial in directory so that your customers understand that your business is not currently open, but they are still able to route their call to the appropriate employee’s extension.

With the many features available through hosted PBX services, your business is sure to find ways to become more productive and create a more streamlined and effective workplace.
 

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