When it comes to business communications and modern phone systems, there are plenty of options to consider–so many that it can get overwhelming (See: Looking for a New Business Phone System: 10 Terms to Know). As a business owner, you are making an important investment in your future and the future of your employees. How do you choose the right phone system, and perhaps more critically, how do you choose the right communications provider? To answer the first question, check out “Mitel Business Phone Systems: Which One is Right for You?“. To answer the second question read on.
Top 5 Qualities to Look for in a Business Phone System Provider
1. Confident and knowledgeable about the products they sell. Many business communications companies leave it entirely to the consumer to research, compare and learn the ins-and-outs of a new business phone system. These companies act like little more than a middle man for phone system manufacturers and place little stock in the products. Choose a provider that loves what they do and is passionate about what they’re selling.
2. Offers reliable ground support. What’s the use of spending a great deal of money on a new phone system if installation and user training is disjointed and sub-par thanks to a provider headquartered across the country or even overseas? System installation, training, maintenance and repair should be a breeze for the client. Choose a provider that is geographically close and makes IT support top priority.
3. Provides knowledge and expertise in the broad spectrum of business communication issues. These days, a company’s communication strategy is anything but simple. The phone system is tied to the Internet service is tied to the cloud is tied to the private network is tied to the cabling.….you get the picture. Choose a provider that understands and is able to address the complex mechanics of the latest advancements in information technology.
4. Understands local challenges and circumstances facing your business. Much like using a communications company with on-point ground support, we recommend joining with a local or regional company to manage your communication needs. Choose a provider that knows what you’re up against and can integrate that knowledge into its technology recommendations.
5. Is as invested in your company’s success as you are. Pretty self-explanatory. Choose a provider that does more than drop a phone system in your lap and collect their money. Choose a provider that wants to see your company grow, evolve and come out on top.
At BCS Voice and Data Solutions, our mission is “to provide our clients consulting, hardware, and services that maximize the value and effectiveness of their business technology,” and to do so with the previous five qualities constantly in mind. If you are in Hampton Roads, Virginia or the Mid-Atlantic region and are in the market for a new business phone system, unified communications solution, or IT support and outsourcing, contact us today.
Image: freedigitalphotos.net
Is VMware Right for My Business?
/in Computer Networking, IT Tips, Uncategorized, Virtualization /by BCS Voice & DataVMware is a great tool for leveraging your IT infrastructure, allowing your your comptuers to run multiple operating systems and applications, without the expense of adding additional machines or servers. You can consolidate servers, improve automation and implement disaster recovery solutions.
If you use leading business software operating on your servers, such as Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, SAP, Microsoft Exchange, Sharepoint and more, VMware can create a more seamless and accessible system, using virtualization to access multiple systems. Typical clients implementing VMware experience 80 percent greater utilization of server resources, up to 50 percent savings in capital and operating costs and a significant benefit in server consolidation.
In addition to server virtualization, we can help with network virtualization — letting you run applications on a virtual network, rather than a physical one. This is particularly beneficial to growing businesses that need a highly scalable network and fast provisioning, troubleshooting, cloning and monitoring.
There’s no simple answer to the question is “VMware right for your business?”, however, the experts at BCS Voice & Data Solutions use a collaborative approach to identify business needs, future potential needs, and help you and your team identify options that are right for you situation. Contact us today for a no-obligation conversation.
Download Our Guide to Choosing a Business Telephone System
/in Business Phone Systems, Cloud, Unified Communications, VoIP /by BCS Voice & DataSelecting the right business telephone system for your company can be a daunting task. Over the years we’ve helped thousands of clients work through the process and have found there are some consistent questions and functions that need to be addressed, no matter what size the business.
As a result of our experience and expertise, we developed a Guide to Choosing a Business Telephone System, available in PDF format. Click here to download a copy now. If you have any questions, please contact us for a no-obligation conversation about your business phone system needs.
Improving Your Conference Calls
/in IT Tips /by BCS Voice & DataBy doing these 3 things before the call starts, you can help ensure a successful conference call.
1. Make the Details Clear to Participants
This includes the date and time (adjusted for time zones), names of all people on the call, and the equipment/applications needed to participate.
Send a reminder or two in the in the days preceding. One of those should be sent on the afternoon before.
2. Set Aside an Organized, Functional and Quiet Space
There are few things worse than conducting a conference call in the middle of a noisy coffee shop or with old and buggy equipment. Make sure your office space is equipped with the technology you need to be in control. That could mean something as simple as a quality business phone and projector or as complex as a an interactive whiteboard and multimedia collaboration hub. The equipment you use should make it easier to get your point across.
3. Test All Components Beforehand
Something worse than conducting a conference call in the middle of a noisy coffee shop? Finding out that half of the call participants can’t hear a word that you are saying thanks to a bad connection. Run a test call before the real deal and you will likely avoid this type of snafu.
BCS specializes in conference rooms for businesses of all sizes. We install, train users and provide support for teleconference equipment. If you need an integrated audiovisual solution, our IT experts can talk you through the best options for your business. Contact BCS Voice and Data Solutions today. Happy conference calling!
Image: freedigitalphotos.net/Vichaya Kiatying-Angsulee
How Does a VoIP Phone System Work for My Business?
/in IT Tips, VoIP /by BCS Voice & DataIP-PBX Phone Systems
The equipment for IP-PBX is located on the office premises like traditional PBX. The difference between the two is that instead of a hardwired user network. IP-PBX uses SIP trunking, an IP-based private branch exchange and a PTSN gateway to route calls. All hardware is housed on site and since it is self-hosted, is the responsibility of the office. Usage charges vary from month to month. This is a reliable VoIP option for businesses with more than 20 employees and a high call volume. It is also highly customizable.
Hosted Phone Solutions
Hosted phone solutions take the pressure off of a company to house hardware, as the key functions of this type of phone system are completed off-site. The only hardware delivered to a business are the phones themselves. The hosting provider shoulders responsibility for keeping the system up and running and managing network downtime. Cost is on a per-user basis and doesn’t vary from month to month. This is a great option for small-to-medium companies without IT departments and those that need room to grow
What Type of VoIP Is Right for My Business?
When deciding on a VoIP solutions, business leaders must consider how much control they want over their company’s phone system. If the business has a robust IT department, consistently high call volume and a need for meticulous customization, IP-PBX is the best choice. If a business is looking for a simple outsourced solution that is feature-rich with predictable costs, a hosted solution might be a good fit.
No matter your unique needs, BCS Voice and Data Solutions offers a VoIP solution for you. Whether it’s an IP-PBX system, Mitel AnyWare hosted phone solution or perhaps just a new phone system, we are excited to help. Click or call today.
3 Things You Probably Don’t Know About Virtualization
/in IT Tips, Virtualization /by BCS Voice & DataVirtualization–the business tech craze that’s been sweeping the nation for some time now. For large companies, virtualizing multiple servers on a single server increases efficiency and cuts hardware costs. For small businesses, virtualization manifests itself in the operation of multiple operating systems on a single server and the deployment of virtual desktops. Virtual environments can be of great benefit to business big and small.
Here are three virtualization facts and tid-bits.
1. A virtual machine allows you to back up entire operating systems and servers. In this way, virtualization of your OS is the ultimate companion to a good data backup strategy. In the event that hackers attack the system, you can simply load the backup and the headache of losing the information framework. This is also your best defense against a natural disaster or other catastrophe.
2. Virtualization lessens the need to replace hardware as frequently. Because you can run new programs and operating systems on older machines through the virtual environment, you don’t need to upgrade physical workstations as often.
3. Browsing the web via a virtual machine protects your physical operating system. When you install a browser on a virtual machine and run it on a desktop, you are not vulnerable to viruses and hack attacks and you won’t see a difference in the speed and functionality of the browser.
If you’re considering investing in a virtualization solution for your business, call the experts at BCS Voice and Data Solutions. We can implement virtual environments on any scale through our certified partnership with VMware–the most respected name in virtualization technology. Whether you are interested in virtual desktop capability or multiple virtual servers, VMware has the solution for your company. And since BCS serves the Hampton Roads region, we can personalize these solutions with ground support and face-to-face user training.
Call or contact us today!
Should you work from home?
/in IT Tips, Unified Communications, Virtualization /by BCS Voice & DataPros of Working From Home
Cons of Working From Home
The decision to work at home is not one that should be made lightly. Doing business is doing business, but doing that business from home presents some unique challenges.
If you’re a company owner who is considering developing a remote telecommuting program, be sure to read “Tips for Implementing a Telecommuting Program” and call BCS to help you create the most effective strategy. The communications technologies we offer enhance the benefits of working from home and mitigate the drawbacks. In fact, our Unified Communications and conference room solutions can make it feel as though an employee working from across the country is right there in the office. In the digital age, things like geography are virtually relative. Let BCS streamline communication in and out of your office. Contact us today.
Ring in the New Year with a New Business Phone System
/in Business Phone Systems, IT Tips, VoIP /by BCS Voice & DataWhat are your business’s communications challenges?
Every company is different, and that’s why BCS tailors our services and recommendations to each company’s unique needs.
For those with outdated phone systems….
As an exclusive Mitel partner, BCS can outfit your company with new business phones that allow for seamless communication. You can go with traditional wired units, cordless phones or even a desktop Softphone. Most even pair with mobile phones, so your employees never have to miss a call.
For those who live in fear of the phone system bill…
BCS offers Mitel AnyWare hosted phone solutions as the perfect alternative to traditional IP-PBX and premise based PBX systems. For one monthly fee on a per-user basis, Mitel AnyWare gives small business owners peace of mind. Even more, AnyWare grows with your business. Add users as needed and know exactly what you’ll pay.
For those who have no clue where those cables lead…
Hardware failure is one of the leading causes of network downtime. This is why maintaining hardware like cabling, wiring and server components is an essential part of IT operations. Entrust your hardware to our expert structured cabling technicians. They will install (if necessary), inspect and organize your company’s cabling so that a frayed wire or bad connection won’t bring business to a halt.
For those who want the whole picture…
Relying on consumer-level video conferencing apps to connect with remote employees and distant clients is fine to a point, but exceptionally professional organizations need teleconference solutions that integrate directly with their phone and Unified Communications systems. BCS sells, installs and maintains a variety of the latest enterprise level teleconference equipment and applications.
Whatever the problem is, make a 2014 resolution to update and streamline your company’s communications technology by partnering with BCS Voice and Data Solutions. We specialize in providing tech solutions like feature-rich business phones, hosted PBX service, Unified Communications suites and more to small-to-medium businesses in Hampton Roads and beyond.
Image courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net/luigi diamanti
Best Cordless Business Phones for Retail
/in Business Phone Systems, IT Tips, VoIP /by BCS Voice & DataCalling all retail managers! With Christmas less than a week away, we’re sure that you are experiencing more than your fair share of stress and long hours, but we have some advice that may change the way you do business in-store (and hopefully take some stress out of the equation in 2014).
How do you handle in-store communication? Expensive cellphones? Hardwired cordless phones? Consider transitioning to one of the business phone systems in Mitel’s IP-Digital Enhanced Cordless Communication (IP-DECT) arsenal. These cordless business phones connect over a wireless network and provide all the features of complex desktop phones with all the convenient portability of traditional cordless units.
And since no two companies’ communication needs are exactly alike, Mitel offers several different cordless phone units. All cordless business phones run on the the Mitel IP-DECT System for on-premises wireless communication. As a certified exclusive Mitel partner, BCS Voice and Data Solutions is happy to offer this technology to SMBs in Virginia Beach, Virginia and beyond. These Mitel cordless units are two of our favorites.
Mitel MiVoice 5603 Wireless Phone
The Mitel Mivoice 5603 Wireless phone is perfect for small businesses that need a low-cost, basic cordless phone that though simple, is maximally reliable.The 5603 offers plenty of features to streamline the way your employees communicate with each other and the outside world.
Mitel MiVoice 5610 DECT Handset
For businesses that need to accommodate more users with more features, we give you the Mitel MiVoice 5610 handset with stand. This wireless handset operates much like a cellphone and offers all the features of the 5603 phone and more.
Don’t be tethered to the desk by your business phone system. Give your employees the mobility and technology they need to get the job done. Call or contact BCS today to learn more about our cordless business phones and other business phone systems.
Unified Communications. Bringing People Together During the Holidays and Everyday.
/in Business Phone Systems, Computer Networking, IT Tips, Unified Communications /by BCS Voice & DataAll small to medium businesses can benefit from adding Unified Communications and Collaboration to their IT arsenal. The backbone of progress is efficient communication and UC allows companies to seamlessly integrate the various channels necessary to daily operations; email, messaging, virtualized environments, video and web conferencing, etc.
Many IT leaders are reluctant to embrace any one Unified Communications solution because they fear that such a change could leave their company “boxed in” to a certain server model or require an entirely new IT infrastructure to support it. We’re happy to report that these concerns are in large part unfounded, at least when companies choose to deploy a UC solution like Mitel MiCollab.
Mitel MiCollab is a single UC platform that addresses IT department’s concerns about complexity and inflexibility.
From Mitel:
In addition to the user-friendly interface, MiCollab offers the most sought-after UC features.
With MiCollab, the way you choose to deploy initially is not the end all be all for your company’s business communications future. Like we mentioned, the suite is compatible with public cloud hosting services, but it can also run on a dedicated site specific server, a private cloud or even a hybrid cloud model, depending on a business’s unique needs. And what’s more, it is incredibly easy to move the MiCollab suite to different platforms as your company grows. You may be running your business on a public cloud now, but if in two years you choose to upgrade to a private cloud model, MiCollab will upgrade with you. No need to invest in a new Unified Communications suite.
As an exclusive Mitel partner, BCS offers Unified Communications solutions like MiCollab as well as the latest business phone systems and the very best IT support and outsourcing in Hampton Roads and the Midatlantic region. Call or contact us today to learn more.
Business Phone Systems? Don’t Trust Just Anyone.
/in Business Phone Systems, Industry News, IT Tips, Unified Communications /by BCS Voice & DataWhen it comes to business communications and modern phone systems, there are plenty of options to consider–so many that it can get overwhelming (See: Looking for a New Business Phone System: 10 Terms to Know). As a business owner, you are making an important investment in your future and the future of your employees. How do you choose the right phone system, and perhaps more critically, how do you choose the right communications provider? To answer the first question, check out “Mitel Business Phone Systems: Which One is Right for You?“. To answer the second question read on.
Top 5 Qualities to Look for in a Business Phone System Provider
1. Confident and knowledgeable about the products they sell. Many business communications companies leave it entirely to the consumer to research, compare and learn the ins-and-outs of a new business phone system. These companies act like little more than a middle man for phone system manufacturers and place little stock in the products. Choose a provider that loves what they do and is passionate about what they’re selling.
2. Offers reliable ground support. What’s the use of spending a great deal of money on a new phone system if installation and user training is disjointed and sub-par thanks to a provider headquartered across the country or even overseas? System installation, training, maintenance and repair should be a breeze for the client. Choose a provider that is geographically close and makes IT support top priority.
3. Provides knowledge and expertise in the broad spectrum of business communication issues. These days, a company’s communication strategy is anything but simple. The phone system is tied to the Internet service is tied to the cloud is tied to the private network is tied to the cabling.….you get the picture. Choose a provider that understands and is able to address the complex mechanics of the latest advancements in information technology.
4. Understands local challenges and circumstances facing your business. Much like using a communications company with on-point ground support, we recommend joining with a local or regional company to manage your communication needs. Choose a provider that knows what you’re up against and can integrate that knowledge into its technology recommendations.
5. Is as invested in your company’s success as you are. Pretty self-explanatory. Choose a provider that does more than drop a phone system in your lap and collect their money. Choose a provider that wants to see your company grow, evolve and come out on top.
At BCS Voice and Data Solutions, our mission is “to provide our clients consulting, hardware, and services that maximize the value and effectiveness of their business technology,” and to do so with the previous five qualities constantly in mind. If you are in Hampton Roads, Virginia or the Mid-Atlantic region and are in the market for a new business phone system, unified communications solution, or IT support and outsourcing, contact us today.
Image: freedigitalphotos.net