Why Use a Hosted PBX

A hosted PBX is not a new idea, but it is a solution that has really come a long way. PBX stands for private branch exchange and it was a term that came about over a decade ago to identify hardware and software solutions that were brought into a business' premises. Back in those old days the hardware and software solutions, not to mention the wiring that went along with it, were quite expensive and also very hard to maintain.

Not only did you have to decide what telephones to buy but also had to determine how many lines you would need to install ahead of time. If you wanted to add more lines you would essentially have to add more connection/terminal boxes in order to add more telephone lines. Then, you would also have to run more telephone wiring to get to the locations in your remote office space. As you can tell implementing a solution
like this required a lot of planning and a lot of contractors to install all of the pieces.

When you purchase a hosted PBX you do not need to worry about cumbersome hardware, software and wiring. Basically, you go to a service provider's website and choose the number of lines that you want and/or the number of extensions and you're done. Now, of course, you can add additional things such as a fax number or an 800 number. But, everything else is pretty much provided to you under your service contract. This includes voicemail, three way calling, call forwarding, and things like call hunting.

These types of services used to be all add-ons for the old virtual PBX systems. Every single time you wanted to add a new option you have to pay an additional fee. Nowadays these systems provide you with many feature-rich options under one service contract. This also includes for many service providers free unlimited calling. This would have been unheard of even 3 to 4 years ago.

Choosing a hosted PBX is quite easy as well. Essentially, the best way to choose one is to determine the needs that you have. For example, do you need to have an 800 vanity number, do you need unlimited number of extensions, what price point are you willing to pay, and how easy is it to implement the different features. There are a wide range of solution providers some of which are more expensive than others, while some provide more features than others. The best thing to do is to make yourself a matrix of requirements and then go searching.