While switchboards and operators are long gone, fast and effective communication is a staple for any
business. A complete and adaptive platform to manage all communication methods is critical to ensure
that everyone interacting with the business receives the same professional and accurate response.
What key aspects should you look for when choosing a new system for your operation? Do you have
different departments that specific calls need to be routed to? Do you have after-hours or on-call needs
to manage? Do you need to keep recordings of the calls for posterity and validation should an issue
arise? All of this can be handled by a modern Phone System.
Beyond calls, what else can a Phone System handle?
An increasingly critical aspect of modern communication is SMS/MMS Messaging, more commonly
known as text messages. This method of communicating has become the go-to for most people, and
the modern operation needs to add this to their toolbox to stay relevant.
We all understand the importance of a social media presence. It is critical that you actively manage the
messages you are receiving from those platforms as well. Customers expect the same level of quality
service when they reach out online as well as in person.
One last communication tool to consider is the fax machine. While this is an old school technology, it
doesn’t have to be old school hardware. When someone sends you a fax, wouldn’t it be more useful if
the incoming message was routed to an email account you specify, or maybe even a file share on your
computer network? Handling your fax needs by using an eFax platform that is built-in to your Phone
System will accomplish all of this and more.
We recommend utilizing one platform to check all these boxes. As you are searching, the best term to
describe this is Unified Communications (UC). There are many options that will take evaluation and
consideration to find the best fit. It can also be helpful to partner with an expert in the industry who can
make recommendations based on your specific needs.
Keep in mind as you determine what system is right for you the installation location of your system.
Older systems rely on being “onsite”. Today, you can also opt to utilize a “cloud” based system.
Cloud based systems offer the flexibility many businesses rely on in today’s culture. If you have staff that
work remotely or need to access the system while “on-call”, this would provide them access anywhere,
anytime. The app on your smartphone will allow you to interact with the system just like when you are
sitting in the office. And if there is an issue onsite, the UC System will continue operating in the
background until you can resolve the problem locally.
If you have any questions regarding what system might be right for you, On Your Mark Transportation is
available to provide the expertise you need to make an informed and cost-effective decision.
