Business Telephone Systems

Abbey prides itself on matching the appropriate technology solution to an organisations needs rather than the current trend.

As a consequence, we have established key relationships with major system providers and wholesale Hosted/Cloud providers to ensure we can deliver a tailor-made solution to our clients.

Our portfolio allows us to deliver a cost effective solution from a few handsets requiring a basic telephone service through to large multi-site enterprises looking for a fully integrated Web based Unified Communications Platform. A brief summary of the main solution options is covered below;

Hosted/Cloud

Hosted PBX, Hosted VoIP, Cloud Systems and Internet Phones are all phrases used to describe the same thing. These systems are provided by a supplier with a large system shared by many companies located remotely from your premises and connected via the internet using IP (Voice Over Internet Protocol). Handsets within your premises plug into a data (PoE) switch and then a router and onto the “Hosted Providers” system via the internet. The provider charges, typically, on a monthly basis for the number of extension users required, the features activated and the calls made (if a calls package is not included). These fees will remain fixed for the duration of the contract. Remote support for the main system is typically included however this doesn’t usually include the onsite handsets, data switches or router required for the service. Upfront fees for Hosted services are lower than a premise based solution but will not reduce over the term.

On Premise

This is a dedicated piece of hardware (or software on a server) located on the customers site, either wall mounted for smaller systems or in a Cat5 cabinet as appropriate. The latest products are true VoIP systems with a full range of Unified Communications features, similar to Hosted platforms. In addition to offering VoIP connectivity they will connect to traditional Analogue and ISDN lines offering flexibility in the event of an internet failure. The system will be dedicated to an organisation, offering greater flexibility when configuring and managing the solution. Unlike the Hosted solution upfront costs are higher, unless leased, to cover the hardware and software licence costs: However once paid the ongoing support costs are typically much lower.

Virtualised

Many of the “On Premise” providers also offer their solutions as software only options, allowing an organisation to virtualise the telephone system and share servers using something like VMware or Hyper-V. These systems tend to be pure IP (VoIP), however, some will offer gateways for connectivity to traditional ISDN services if required. This delivery method can offer the benefits derived from a Hosted or Cloud solution by locating the solution off site, rather than locally, plus delivering the flexibility of the dedicated features of an On-Premise solution.

One size doesn’t fit all and to ensure we meet our customers’ needs we offer “Hosted/Cloud”, “On-premise” and “Virtualised” solutions. Many providers will focus on one delivery method and push that as the right solution for you. There are Pros and Cons for each solution and careful consideration should be made before selection. We would be happy to discuss your current and future needs, helping you select the most appropriate solution and delivery method.

Microsoft 365 Business Voice

Many organisations are utilising a broad range of applications such as Microsoft Teams to improve connectivity and productivity between colleagues both IN and AWAY from the office. As part of the Microsoft365 suite of solutions, subject to the plan adopted, a Business Voice option is available and when activated adds cloud telephony.

A solution that could, subject to your needs, be a potential replacement for a traditional or hosted telephone system. As with all the options mentioned it may not be right for your organisation. Abbey with their accredited engineers can assess your needs and suitability for this as a solution.