Premise-Based PBX Capabilities for Small Businesses

Many companies are opting for premise-based PBX capabilities to handle their communications when the company needs to bolster cost savings and increase workplace efficiency. Compared to VoIP or hosted VoIP systems, premise-based PBX capabilities do not require additional features and are compatible with older systems. 

For smaller businesses, such as those with slower Internet/network connections and older communications products still in use, the option of a premise-based PBX capabilities telephone system is one to consider seriously.

A premise-based PBX (Private Branch Exchange) telephone system is an on-site phone system that uses a central server to route calls between extensions. The premise-based PBX capabilities server is typically installed in the business’s premises, such as a closet or office, and the company owns the system’s hardware and software. 

Total ownership of the premise-based PBX capabilities is an attractive feature for any company looking to have complete control over its data and operations. 

What are the benefits of premise-based PBX systems for small businesses?

There are several premise-based PBX capabilities that can help small businesses, including:

• Cost savings: Because premise-based PBX capabilities do not require a separate VoIP adapter for each phone, they can be more cost-effective than VoIP or hosted VoIP systems.
•  Easy to install and use: Premise-based PBX capabilities are typically easy to install and use, making them a good option for small businesses with limited IT resources.
• Compatibility with older systems: Because premise-based PBX capabilities use traditional telephone lines, they are often compatible with older phone systems and devices. Premise-based PBX capabilities can be a significant advantage for small businesses that have not yet switched to VoIP.

There are a few potential drawbacks to keep in mind when considering a premise-based PBX system for your small business, including:

• Limited features: Premise-based PBX capabilities typically have fewer features than VoIP or hosted VoIP systems. This can be a disadvantage for businesses that rely heavily on features like call forwarding and voicemail.
• Requires on-site server: Because premise-based PBX capabilities require an on-site server, they are not as scalable as VoIP or hosted VoIP systems. This can be a problem for small businesses that plan to expand.
• Maintenance and support: Because premise-based PBX capabilities are owned outright by the business, the responsibility for maintenance and support falls on the company itself. This can be a challenge for small businesses with limited IT resources.

Considering premise-based PBX capabilities for your small business, weigh the pros and cons carefully to decide if it’s the right fit for your needs.

Premise-based PBX capabilities can be installed either by the service provider (with whom the business has a contractual agreement for specific services or a more extensive plan) or someone in the office familiar with the telephone system already in place. The premise-based PBX capabilities then distribute calls through IP phone lines, which can come in either through the telephone service provider’s traditional network or through the business location’s broadband Internet connection.

The significant advantage of premise-based PBX capabilities over a hosted VoIP solution is that small business has more control over their features since they do not rely on the service provider for feature updates or changes. Additionally, premise-based PBX capabilities usually require a smaller up-front investment and can be easier to maintain than hosted VoIP solutions. The total cost of ownership of a premise-based PBX capabilities system is relatively lower and this will ensure that your business’s data resides only within your servers. 

One of the most significant advantages of purchasing a premise-based PBX capabilities system is that, once it is bought, a company owns the PBX system, unlike other VoIP or hosted VoIP products. Also, because basic premise-based PBX capabilities do not always need a fast, robust Internet connection to place calls, it is an attractive option for many small businesses with slow or occasionally unreliable Internet and network connections. Premise-based PBX capabilities on site have the backup capacity for such situations and security features, such as storage space for messages and call data information.

The main disadvantage of premise-based PBX capabilities is that the business is responsible for all maintenance and support, which can be a challenge for small businesses with limited IT resources. Additionally, premise-based PBX capabilities are not as scalable as hosted VoIP solutions, so they may not be a good fit for companies that plan to expand in the future. Consult with our premise-based PBX capabilities buyer’s guide to learn more about selecting the right phone systems vendor for your business.  

Though premise-based PBX capabilities systems often require regular maintenance and updates, they do not need the extra features VoIP products do. Additionally, an on-site PBX capabilities system has customizable capabilities because it is owned by the business location where it is housed. premise-based PBX capabilities add-ons may or may not need to be installed by technical professionals, but choosing these features is often advantageous for small businesses seeking to maintain proactive control over their budgets. The same applies to companies with older telephone, alarm, or intercom systems. With premise-based PBX capabilities and capacity for being customized, a small business with older technology products can add on features whenever it makes financial sense for the organization.

When choosing a phone and data system for your business, there are many factors to consider. Determining your company's budget capabilities and technology situation will help decide whether a traditional premise-based PBX capabilities system or a VoIP or hosted VoIP system is right for you. A premise-based PBX capabilities system may be the most fiscally wise choice if your business is small and has older technological components.

Explore more about phone system solutions via our phone systems buyer’s guide and compare the different communication solutions providers on the market these days.