The True Cost of Cloud Phone Systems | A Buyer’s Guide for SMBs in the Denver Metro Area
As more businesses in the Denver metro area evaluate and adopt remote and hybrid work models, the demand for modern communication solutions is on the rise. One of the most efficient and cost-effective options is cloud phone systems.
However, navigating the landscape of cloud phone systems can be challenging for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). This guide will provide you with a clear understanding of cloud phone system pricing, features to look for, and how to make the best decision for your business.
Why Choose a Cloud Phone System?
Unlike traditional landline or on-premise phone systems, cloud phone systems leverage the internet to manage calls, messages, and other communication tasks. This allows businesses to be more flexible and scalable, especially when supporting remote teams—a major consideration for Denver businesses adjusting to changing work environments.
With features like automated call routing, video conferencing, voicemail-to-email, and CRM integration, cloud phone systems are designed to enhance productivity while cutting costs associated with maintenance and physical hardware.
What are the Key Cloud Phone System Features?
When evaluating different cloud phone systems, it’s important to know which features can provide the most value to your Denver-area business. Here are some essential features to consider:
- Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS)
UCaaS offers a complete package of communication tools in one platform, including instant messaging, video conferencing, and team collaboration tools. This is especially useful for remote work, enabling seamless communication across different locations. - Call Management and Routing
Features such as automatic call distribution, call queuing, and IVR (interactive voice response) systems allow businesses to handle higher call volumes more efficiently. These tools are vital for companies that manage customer service or support departments. - Mobile Integration
A cloud phone system allows employees to connect via their mobile phones as if they were using their office lines. This feature is invaluable for businesses in Denver where employees often work on the go or across multiple locations. - Scalability
Cloud systems grow with your business. Whether you’re expanding your workforce or adding more lines for new locations, scaling up is far simpler and less costly than upgrading a traditional phone system. - Cost-saving Integrations
Cloud phone systems typically integrate with CRM systems and other business tools to streamline workflows. For instance, sales teams can make calls directly from their CRM, and support teams can pull up customer details during calls, reducing time spent on manual tasks.
Unleashing the Power of Communication
Cloud Phone System Pricing Breakdown
One of the primary advantages of cloud phone systems is their pricing flexibility. The cost of cloud phone systems typically depends on several factors: the number of users, selected features, and service providers. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
- Subscription-Based Pricing Most cloud phone systems are offered on a subscription basis, usually per user, per month. This cost model is ideal for businesses that want to avoid large upfront costs. Pricing can range from $15 to $60 per user per month depending on the features included. For a basic system with call routing and voicemail, expect to pay on the lower end, while systems with advanced features like UCaaS and CRM integration are priced higher.
- Pay-As-You-Go Options
Some providers offer pay-as-you-go plans, where you pay only for the features you use. This model may be ideal for SMBs in Denver that don’t need a full suite of features year-round, such as seasonal businesses. - Additional Costs
Though most cloud phone systems don’t require heavy infrastructure investments, there are still a few additional costs to consider. These may include:- Hardware costs for VoIP-compatible phones (typically optional as mobile and desktop apps can replace desk phones).
- Installation or setup fees (though many providers waive this for new customers).
- International calling rates (if applicable).
Denver businesses with a global clientele should compare providers’ rates for international calls to avoid unexpected charges.
How Cloud Phone Systems Can Save Money for your SMBs
For SMBs in the Denver metro area, cloud phone systems can offer significant cost-saving benefits, both in the short and long term:
- Lower Upfront Costs
Traditional phone systems often come with hefty initial costs for hardware, installation, and ongoing maintenance. In contrast, cloud phone systems are hosted remotely, eliminating the need for expensive on-premise equipment. Most of the setup involves software configurations, making it quick and affordable to get started. - Reduced Maintenance
With cloud systems, all maintenance, updates, and security patches are handled by the provider, significantly reducing the need for in-house IT support. This is especially beneficial for small businesses with limited technical resources. - Scalability
Businesses experiencing growth or seasonal fluctuations in the Denver market can quickly add or reduce lines as needed, without incurring the costs associated with upgrading traditional systems. This flexibility is crucial for industries like construction or real estate, where staffing needs vary throughout the year. - Support for Remote Work
Cloud phone systems are particularly beneficial for businesses that need to support remote work. Employees can make and receive business calls from anywhere, using mobile devices or desktops, with no additional equipment required. This not only enhances productivity but also reduces the cost of maintaining multiple office locations.
Who are the Best Cloud Phone System Providers for Denver SMBs?
There are numerous cloud phone system providers, but the right one for your business depends on your specific needs. Below are some popular options with a strong presence in the Denver area:
- RingCentral
A leader in the cloud communications industry, RingCentral offers a wide range of features, including team messaging, video meetings, and integrations with popular CRM platforms. It’s an excellent choice for businesses looking for an all-in-one solution at competitive pricing. - Nextiva
Known for its robust customer service and scalable solutions, Nextiva is ideal for growing SMBs. Their system offers unlimited calling, automated attendants, and call analytics, making it a strong choice for customer-focused businesses. - 8×8
Offering unlimited calling to 48 countries and advanced features like call center management and video conferencing, 8×8 is a popular choice for companies with international clients or remote teams. - Grasshopper
For Denver startups and small businesses, Grasshopper offers a cost-effective, user-friendly option with features like call forwarding, custom greetings, and business texting, all without the need for additional hardware.
- Crexendo
Crexendo is a cloud communications provider that specializes in VoIP and UCaaS solutions tailored to small and medium-sized businesses. Known for its affordability, Crexendo provides unlimited local and long-distance calling, video conferencing, and mobile apps to ensure employees can stay connected from anywhere. What sets Crexendo apart is its emphasis on scalability and customization, making it an excellent choice for Denver businesses looking for a flexible, budget-friendly solution.
How to Choose the Right Cloud Phone System for Your Business
Selecting the right cloud phone system depends on your business’s specific communication needs. While we always recommend a consultation with one of our specialists, here are a few questions to consider:
- How many employees will use the system?
If you have a small team, a basic system may suffice. For larger teams or businesses with high call volumes, investing in a feature-rich platform may yield better long-term benefits. - What are your scalability requirements?
Businesses that are expanding rapidly should prioritize systems that can easily scale without requiring significant additional investment. - Do you need international calling?
If your business serves international clients, pay close attention to the cost of global calling plans, which can vary significantly between providers. - What integrations are essential for your workflow?
If your business relies heavily on CRM platforms or project management tools, make sure your cloud phone system offers seamless integration.
Get a Risk Free Demo Today
For businesses in the Denver metro area, cloud phone systems offer an affordable and scalable solution to modern communication needs, especially for remote and hybrid work environments. By choosing the right system based on your needs and understanding the pricing structure, your company can enjoy the benefits of reduced overhead, better collaboration, and enhanced customer service.
Whether you’re a startup in LoDo or a growing business in Cherry Creek, investing in the right cloud phone system can streamline your operations and ensure your team stays connected, no matter where they are.
ABT is here to help Denver-area businesses transition to cloud-based phone systems with ease. Contact us today to explore solutions tailored to your specific needs!
