Outsourced cloud based phone services use the internet and cloud technology. They require that a business use a specific phone system and then get service from a cloud phone system provider. There are some pros and cons to using cloud based phone systems.
Pros
-It can save money overall. While you will have to pay a subscription fee for cloud based phone services, you may save money versus using another type of phone system. This is especially true if you find yourself needing to make international calls on a regular basis.
-Cloud based phone systems allow for flexibility. In the past businesses could only take phone calls if they were sitting near the phone at their desk. These types of phone systems are different as you have a variety of options as long as you have an internet connection. You can plug your IP phone right into your laptop or configure your softphone so that you can use it with your personal smartphone. This allows you to make and take calls virtually anywhere you want too.
Cons
-You’ll need to purchase equipment. In order to use a cloud based phone system you may need to purchase special phone equipment. Not everyone wants to make this purchase as it can be a pretty pricey upfront cost.
-Drop calls are a possibility. No matter how reliable your internet connection is it may go out from time to time. This will result in dropped calls. If your internet is out for a while you won’t be able to take calls or contact your customers.
Some of the leading outsourced phone services are:
