The four main types of business telephone systems (key telephone systems, private branch exchange telephone systems (PBX), KSU-less telephone systems and voice over internet protocol) all provide the same basic function (i.e. to make and receive telephone calls), but there are significant differences between them. If you need a telephone system for your business, then it is worthwhile learning about each of the systems available to ensure that you get the one that is best suited to your particular circumstances.

Private Branch Exchange Telephone Systems (PBX) – Unlike other telephone systems, this one is compact and flexible. It has more features than the other options and is easier to upgrade and to customize according to your needs. It can hold over fifty extensions and so is a good choice for large companies. However, as this system is the most advanced and provides the biggest capacity, it is the most expensive one.

Key Telephone Systems – The fact that this telephone system is well priced and easy to set-up means that it is a popular choice. It is ideal for businesses with between ten and fifty employees. Though it can cope with more than fifty extensions, that is not really what it was designed for, however, it is not difficult to combine it with a PBX system if you buy this system and later take more employees.

Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) – This telephone system works over the Internet. You basically connect your phone directly into your computer. Features include number portability, voicemail and call waiting with caller ID. It is perfect for small businesses with limited numbers of employees but is impractical for larger businesses.

KSU-Less Telephone Systems – This telephone system is suitable for businesses with ten or fewer employees. It is cost-effective, easy to install and not difficult to move from office to another if you have to relocate. Another benefit is that it is highly customizable, so you can have it set-up in pretty much any way that you choose. The disadvantage of this system is that it if you need to upgrade it is quite expensive to do.

Ultimately, which telephone system you use is less down to personal preference and more down to the size of your business and how much you expect it to grow over the next few years. If you are not sure which one to opt for then speaking to a consultant at a firm that specializes in these systems is advisable.


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