Preparing for a Smooth Cloud PBX Migration
When you’re investing in a communications upgrade, such as a move to a cloud private branch exchange (PBX) system, it’s easy to be dazzled by all the benefits you can expect. Scalability, predictable monthly invoices, high-quality voice calls that can be placed from anywhere, anytime, and an array of customizable features are all exciting reasons to switch to cloud PBX. However, what can seem like the ultimate in communications can turn into wandering in the desert when you fail to include some important considerations in your migration plan.
Test your network. Cloud PBX runs through your internet connection. While this provides some advantages to your enterprise, it also means your network will experience much higher demand for its pathways. Congestion can result in jitter and dropped packets, which are bad news when you’re videoconferencing or on a voice call.
There are free tools online that can help you test network speed and performance before you lock in with any cloud PBX provider. When you’re considering solutions, make sure your network is prepared for the demands of that particular system and explore what kind of investment is required to upgrade it. A partner like Precision Interconnect can help you evaluate your business and network.
Choose the right provider. You know that not all cloud PBX solutions are created equal, so keep a few key elements in the conversation whenever you’re evaluating potential providers:
SLA: Your service level agreement (SLA) is an important piece of your cloud PBX package. It ensures that the quality of your communications is held to a certain standard with specific minimum numbers detailed for areas such as downtime and call quality.
You should also have a clear understanding of how support will look once the solution is implemented. No company can tolerate downtime on their phone system, so find out the full range of communication formats you can use to contact your provider and what their response times are for service.
Routers and other hardware: Talk with potential providers about the router you’re currently using and whether it meets the specifications of their solution. If you have a situation where a call has to go through two routers, for instance, data transmission will be slow. If you’re using an older router, it may not be compatible with cloud PBX, so now is the time to upgrade. Routers and network upgrades often drive up the cost of cloud PBX implementation, which is why it’s important to proactively assess the infrastructure necessary to support the investment in your communications, so budgeting can be more accurate.
Security: Make sure your provider’s security policies align well with your own. How soon will you be notified if they experience a breach, and what will happen to your data if they experience a natural disaster? Find out how much notice you’ll receive if the company decides to no longer support your cloud PBX solution. These are critical considerations when choosing a provider.
Precision Interconnect can help you with all of these requirements to make the transition to a cloud PBX. To learn more about effectively implementing cloud PBX with assistance from our team, contact us by emailing hbitman@precisioninter.com or calling (212) 784-2002. We can talk more about these considerations and additional steps you can take for a smooth cloud PBX transition.
