Comparing Business Phone System Providers: NEC vs. RingCentral vs. Nextiva
The digital age of communication has spawned an array of business phone systems that allow companies to stay connected, collaborate, and communicate with customers quickly and conveniently. From cloud-based solutions to traditional on-premise options, businesses have a wide range of choices when it comes to selecting a phone system provider.
This article will explore the three most popular providers of business phone systems: NEC, RingCentral, and Nextiva. We’ll compare their features and services to help you choose the best one for your business needs.
Summary
- What to Look for in Business Phone System Providers
- Key Features of NEC
- Key Features of RingCentral
- Key Features of Nextiva
- Comparing NEC, RingCentral and Nextiva
- Choosing Your New Business Phone System
1. What to Look for in Business Phone System Providers
A business phone system is a vital tool that allows employees to communicate with customers and colleagues, as well as manage calls efficiently for businesses of any size. The various types of phone systems (VoIP, premise-based, hybrid) offer their own unique advantages and features that can help businesses stay connected to their customers and enhance day-to-day operations.
When deciding which business phone system provider you need for your business, it’s important to first consider these items:
- Identify Your Needs: What do you require from your phone system? This might include features like voicemail, call forwarding, conference calling, virtual receptionist, etc. Also, consider the size of your business and its growth potential.
- Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend. Phone system costs can vary widely depending on the provider and the features included.
- Reliability: Look for a provider with a reputation for reliability. Check reviews and ask for references. A good provider should have minimal downtime and offer excellent customer service.
- Scalability: Make sure the phone system can grow with your business. It should be easy to add new lines or features as needed.
- Integration: If you use other business software (like CRM or email marketing tools), check if the phone system can integrate with them.
- Trial Periods and Contracts: Some providers offer a trial period. This can be a great way to see if the system meets your needs before committing long term. Be aware of the terms of any contracts, including any cancellation fees.
- Support: Good customer support is crucial. Look for providers that offer 24/7 support and have positive reviews regarding their customer service.
Now that you know what to look for, let’s dive into the three most popular providers and how they compare.
2. Key Features of NEC
NEC offers a wide variety of VoIP solutions that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of businesses. Their systems are designed to be easy to use and feature a wide range of features including:
- Voice mail, call routing, and auto attendant services
- Mobile apps for iOS and Android
- Video conferencing capabilities
- Call recording capability
- Integration with popular third party applications such as Salesforce and Microsoft Dynamics
- Scalable and secure systems
NEC’s systems are designed to be highly reliable and come with 24/7 customer support. With their easy-to-use interface, businesses can deploy a phone system quickly and easily.
3. Key Features of RingCentral
RingCentral provides cloud-based business phone systems that enable companies to stay connected no matter where their employees are located. Their systems feature:
- Call routing features including auto attendant, call forwarding, and voice mail services
- Conference calling capabilities
- Integrations with popular apps such as Salesforce and Microsoft Dynamics
- Scalable and secure solutions that can be easily customized to meet the needs of businesses
- HD video conferencing
- Mobile and web apps for iOS and Android
RingCentral is known for its reliable service and has 24/7 customer support to ensure their customers get the help they need. RingCentral also integrates seamlessly with many other business applications, a pro for many businesses.
4. Key Features of Nextiva
Nextiva provides a comprehensive cloud-based business phone system that features:
- Auto attendant services
- Voice mail and call routing capabilities
- HD video conferencing
- Integrations with popular third party applications such as Salesforce and Microsoft Dynamics
- Mobile and web apps for iOS and Android
- Reliable service with 24/7 customer support
Nextiva’s systems provide businesses with the flexibility they need to stay connected no matter where their employees are located.
5. Comparing NEC, RingCentral and Nextiva
When it comes to comparing business phone system providers, there are several factors to consider, including essential business phone features, reliability, scalability, and customer support. Let’s compare the features of NEC, RingCentral, and Nextiva:
- All three providers offer VoIP solutions with auto attendant services, voicemail and call routing capabilities, HD video conferencing, and mobile and web apps for iOS and Android.
- NEC is recognized for its reliable service with 24/7 customer support.
- RingCentral is known for its scalability and ease of use thanks to their customizable systems that can be easily adapted with existing business tools.
- Nextiva is the most cost-effective option with their affordable pricing plans and comprehensive cloud-based business phone system.
6. Choosing Your New Business Phone System
Choosing the right business phone system provider for your company can be a challenging task. With so many options available, it’s important to compare to ensure that the phone system you choose is the best fit for your business needs. Once the important decision is made, you will also need to find a business phone installer.
RanderCom is a leading provider of technology solutions for small businesses specializing in business phone systems, including installation. As authorized dealers for NEC, RingCentral, Nextiva and more, we pride ourselves on being experts in business phone systems.
We serve businesses in Appleton, the Fox Valley, Green Bay, Waupaca and the surrounding areas. Let us help you select and install the right business phone system for your business. Call RanderCom today!
By Dylan Esterling, Owner of RanderCom
Dylan Esterling is the proud owner of RanderCom, serving Appleton, Green Bay, and communities across Wisconsin. At RanderCom, Dylan and his team offer comprehensive small-business technology solutions. Services include the sales and installation of phone systems, surveillance systems, access control systems, paging & intercom systems, voice & data services, data cabling & wiring, and IT network equipment. With years of experience in installing business phone systems and other systems, you can trust RanderCom to meet your small business tech needs. Contact us today!