How to Select the Right VoIP Provider

There are literally countless VoIP providers vying for your business all around the world. Seriously. For us to try to quantify just how many VoIP providers there are out there would be nearly impossible.

Instead of focusing on the thousands of VoIP providers out there who aren’t the right fit, you’re probably much more interested in understanding how to select the right provider for you. With so many sales pitches, gimmicks, and SDRs fighting for your attention, we’ll help you cut through the clutter and identify your ideal VoIP partner.

Understand the Service Options

Before you can select a VoIP provider, one of the most critical things you’ll need to understand is what exactly is available to you.

For starters, you’ll need to decide between hosted VoIP or Premise based. With hosted, your call flow and data will be routed through an off-site location, supported by the cloud. Your provider maintains control of the system and settings, and is responsible for maintenance and

A premise based system on the other hand, requires some initial investment (hardware and equipment), but grants you more control of your network. Your business is responsible for producing, installing, and maintaining any and all equipment for your network.

Each option comes with their own unique pros and cons, so be sure to do your research and understand what is best for your business. You can find some more info on how to determine if a cloud or premise based phone system is best for you here.

Identify Key Features Your Business Needs

VoIP phone enables your business to achieve its goals with several advanced features. Not all providers offer all of the same features and functionality in their VoIP package.

In order to determine exactly which features your business needs, you’ll first need to understand your current gaps and goals.

A reliable VoIP system can fill in your current gaps in a number of different ways. If your business is experiencing reports of poor customer service, you can utilize call monitoring to ensure calls are handled appropriately, set a custom ring list so calls are routed correctly, or even set up virtual extensions so customers can better reach you.

You may also consider utilizing an IVR or auto-assistant to immediately greet callers and route their calls. This feature not only frees up time for your front office staff or receptionist, but it also provides a helpful experience for your customers.

There are dozens of different unique VoIP features, you can check them all out on our site and determine which are most critical to you.

Request a Demo

Any VoIP provider worth partnering with should offer a demo of their services. Even if they don’t advertise it on their website or in their marketing materials, they should accommodate a request for an informal demo.

Be sure to take this time to familiarize yourself with the products and services. Take note of the call quality. Is it as clear as you’d like? Does the provider offer all of the features that your business needs?

Your demo is not only for testing the product, but also a test-drive for their customer service. Of course, the demo will likely be the most buttoned-up and prepared presentation the provider offers, but it should be a good glimpse into their customer service.

Connect Integrations

Your ideal VoIP provider should offer integrations to connect your phone system with other platforms. This unifies your communications tools, houses them in one simple dashboard, and increases productivity amongst your staff. They’ll no longer spend time bouncing from one app to another, deal with downtime due to technical difficulties, or have disjointed communications across a number of apps.

If a provider does not offer any supplemental integrations, you may want to look elsewhere.

One common integration is a VoIP and Microsoft Teams integration. Enhance your current Microsoft Teams platform and add advanced call features, native within the app. Gain valuable insight into your team’s performance with additional call reporting features that Teams lacks.

A VoIP Integration augments your staff’s ability to communicate and provides them with the advanced Cloud PBX functionalities they need to be efficient.

Explore Their Plans and Pricing

VoIP is not (and should not be) a one-size-fits-all solution. Does your business have the same exact business model and goals as the business next door? Probably not.

Why then would you want a provider who only offers a cookie cutter solution for their clients?

Your VoIP provider should be transparent about both what they offer and how much it will cost. If not, you have to wonder what they’re hiding. Ask for and explore custom quotes to fit your needs.

Once you receive that, you should be able to make an informed decision about what is best for your company. If you’re still unsure, don’t sweat it. Your VoIP provider should offer a technology consultant who can clear up any questions at this point.

Selecting Your VoIP Provider

Now that you have a general idea of how to select the right VoIP provider for your business, you can feel empowered as you search.

At S-NET, we offer each client a dedicated project manager and technology consultant, ensuring each of our clients receives the attention and expertise they deserve. Our personalized, white-glove service, coupled with our customizable platforms make us your ideal VoIP provider.

Ready to upgrade your communications, or looking to ask a few questions? Contact us today for a free demo.