Purchasing a business phone system can be difficult, especially if you are unfamiliar with your current business phone system and with what your available options are. Familiarizing yourself with modern business phone systems can yield big dividends when it comes time to upgrade, expand or replace your current system. You will obviously need to know about the different types of phone systems available for offices and figure out which one you have. The three major types of commercial phone systems on the market today are key systems, Private Branch Exchange (PBX) systems, and KSU-less phones.

The type of system you have will affect how many stations you can add and what features are available to you. PBX systems are the most expandable and, depending on the manufacturer, are often compatible with a variety of handsets. Key systems offer up to 40 lines in most instances and offer features on par or just below those offered with PBX systems. KSU-less system are suitable for very small offices with just a few people. Some offer features found on key and PBX systems, although these features are not tied in to a dedicated system. Instead, these features work independently of the other phones on the system, similar to the way your home phone operates.

If you have a PBX or key system and have room for expansion, doing so maybe your cheapest option, providing expansion is all you need. If newer features are required, you may have to replace the system depending on compatibility with newer handsets. While most modern business phone system handsets are all but guaranteed to have a high degree of functionality, there are several newer options that can greatly enhance productivity, especially if your business uses a phone system as its primary source for generating sales.

If you need to replace an entire system, consult with a business phone retailer for help in deciding on what features will best suit your businesses current and future needs. With a little knowledge on the phone system you have and the choices available to you, updating, upgrading or expanding a business phone system can be relatively hassle free.