Phone systems are an integral part of all business, and proper communication between all parts of the business is necessary for the quick and efficient operation of your business. There are three main types of business phone systems available, all of which offer different benefits and disadvantages. Knowing the differences between these different types of phone systems can allow you to choose the one that best fits your requirements.

Key-Less Systems

Key-less phone systems are the most basic and the cheapest type of phone system available. These are designed to work well with small companies, usually with less than ten employees. They offer communication throughout a small business, but do not require the installation of a central control unit, which drives the cost down quite significantly. This means that you can take your phone system with you if you move locations, as there are no permanent wiring in your office. Key-less phone systems can support up to four separate lines. Key-less systems usually do not come with any installation or programming, which means that you will either have to do it yourself or hire someone to do it for you.

Key Systems

The key telephone system is best suited for larger small businesses with 5 to 40 employees. Key systems are supported by a central key system unit (KSU) that permanently wires the telephone system into your place of business. A key system can have special options added onto the already existing framework to meet the growing needs of your business, and can have a wide variety phone features installed on it. You can add additional lines as needed for an extra cost as your need grows.

Private Branch Exchange Systems

Private branch exchange systems, sometimes known as PBX phone systems provide the complete spectrum of phone options to an office. It is powered by a central PBX cabinet, and integrates with already existing technology and can be programmed into the existing office layout. This type of phone system is really only ideal for larger businesses that have upwards of 40 employees in a building. PBX systems vary greatly in price, depending on the features that you decide to attach to it, but this means that you can tailor what you pay for to ensure that you only get features that you need, and not ones that will never be utilized. PBX systems will have a much higher cost than the other available systems, but offers greater cost flexibility in the long run and allows you to properly communicate with your employees, which can save money by reducing operating costs and mistakes.

Talk to a company like Livewire Communications to discuss your needs and options when you're ready to install your business phone system.