When deciding on the most appropriate business telecommunications for your organization, consider various factors.
Even for non-technical people, the number of options available can be overwhelming, and the technical jargon can be difficult to understand and decode.
What Is Your Knowledge About The Telecom Industry?
Telecom indicates the ability to communicate over long distances through electronic means.
There are several different types of companies in the telecommunications industry, including:
- Cable companies;
- Internet service providers;
- Satellite companies;
- And telephone companies.
On a global scale, the telecom industry is still rife with flaws. The quality of telecommunications services varies significantly from one country to the next. There is great competition for meeting the demands.
To be hassled by failing telecommunication services is stressful. So, when choosing the best business telecoms for your organization, you must ensure quality and not take them lightly.
Before Committing
It’s pointless to choose a deal based solely on price only to discover it doesn’t meet your company’s needs. Unfortunately, because of this, many businesses have become entangled for years without realizing it.
1. Take your time
It is highly suggested to go over all scenarios with your team about the following, so you can make an informed decision:
- Contract expiration dates
- Minimum spend penalties
- Hardware ownership
- Your company’s operations and nature
- Number of employees required for internal and external communication
- Communication sophistication
- Channels of communication
2. Know the Differences in What You May Use
There is a distinction between International and Roaming calls. Therefore, it would be best to equip yourself to understand each to know what you may use.
Roaming Calls / Roamed Data
When you are abroad, any call or data you make or use within that country or elsewhere is considered a roamed call or data.
International Calls
International calls are made from your home country to abroad.
If you have an international client base, you should consider using a virtual phone number. Instead of spending money on a physical landline, you can simply use your own custom virtual phone number in countries across the world to connect with your customers. Whether you’re working overseas and need to call relatives back home or you want to transform your small local business into an international operation, a virtual phone number is always a great solution.
3. Major Network or Local Independent Supplier?
Pros of Major Network
- You buy brand and reliability from the major mobile networks.
- They won’t get into financial trouble, so it’s a safe bet.
- You may get an account manager, but you may be treated like a number.
- Networks have core service levels they must adhere to, so ask to see them before signing anything.
Pros of Independent
- Independents are more approachable.
- They can purchase a wide range of services, which allows them to develop unique service propositions.
- Always ask for references and pick a customer similar to your company’s size and stature to ask how they perform.
- Don’t be afraid to contact and ask a question. Inquire, double-check, and put to the test. It will not be avoided by a good one.
4. Consider What Network Appears To Work For You or Your Friends
Consider the benefits and your company’s needs first by assessing which networks work best in your area or for your colleagues. Then, ask them their reasons and take note of it.
Assuming you have a low signal at home, ask networks or providers what they can offer.
5. Contracts: Make Sure To Be In Good Hands
Your telecommunications provider should have established SLAs (Service Level Agreements) that outline service downtime and support expectations for your business.
You must consider and negotiate the best contract for your needs. Find out who handles your account after you sign the contract.
Remember that these all come at a cost, and networks dislike breaking contracts.
They will make it difficult to leave, so ask before you sign.
6. Know The Total Bill Cost Over Time
To calculate the cost of ownership, subtract the hardware value from the total line rental cost, regardless of the deal. You should be able to choose between upfront payment and recurring payment.
Work on your supplier relationships if you’re only buying on price.
Yet, if you want the best, never buy solely on price, or you may not get enough attention throughout the contract.
7. Know Your Incentive
All major networks now offer all-you-can-eat packages, which is how they get you to spend more.
Many still offer cheaper, custom-made packages, but beware of hidden costs if you overspend! In this case, read the fine print.
Mobile networks are seeing revenue declines with so much emphasis on lowering call rates abroad, especially within Europe.
Check the location of your phones, as prices vary significantly between overseas operators, especially outside Europe. Also, inquire about VoIP smartphone apps. These can save a lot of money.
Takeaways
While cost is a factor in choosing the best business telecommunications provider, it is not always the best option. Instead of selecting a telecommunications provider solely based on price, consider their quality value.
