A simple Q&A framework for choosing the right model for each user/role

If you’re responsible for specifying phones for your facility, you no doubt want to make sure everybody gets the productivity features they need, but not more than they would ever use.  There’s need to buy feature-rich phones for light users or for backup.  No need to buy a high-end phone for a drop-in workstation that will rarely be occupied.  Here are some guidelines to point the way to the right model at the right price point for various user roles.

What type of wiring is available for connecting back to the communications system?

• Digital phones can use existing in-building phone wiring from the phone jack back to the PBX.IP phones are a good choice when there is no existing phone wiring, such as a new or temporary building, because you connect phones using the same Ethernet LAN that serves the computer.
• To connect using an existing wireless LAN infrastructure, choose a wireless SIP telephone or softphone (a laptop, notebook or tablet PC equipped to perform as an IP phone).To use a secure, closed network using wireless base stations, choose a wireless SIP DECT phone.
• For remote users, chose IP phones or softphones to connect to the phone system through the IP LAN or the Internet.

Is the endpoint for a power user?

Heavy phone users will be more productive with models that offer 10 or 20 programmable buttons for fast access to calling functions.

Receptionists and others might need add-on modules for 10, 20 or 60 more programmable buttons, with the ability to see who’s busy and transfer the call to them at the touch of a button.

For those who use a lot of phone features, displays make it easy and intuitive with context-sensitive options and step-by-step prompts.

For those who handle a high volume of inbound and outbound calls, unified communications software empowers the user’s PC to dial, answer, transfer calls and more, using the mouse, without ever picking up the telephone.

Anyone who spends a lot of time on the phone will appreciate that most Toshiba phones have integral headset jacks.

Will the phone be used in dim or variable light, or by a user with impaired vision?

Choose a model with an easy-to-read, backlit LCD.  Desktop phones can be tilted to different angles to eliminate glare from windows or overhead lights.  Toshiba cordless phones even have a backlit keypad for dialing in low-light situations.

How much data will the endpoint be transmitting?

Some Toshiba IP phone models support 10/100 Mbps Ethernet connections, sufficient for most meeting and collaboration purposes, screen sharing and viewing screen pops from external systems.  For fastest access to high-speed network connections, choose a model with an integrated Gigabit Ethernet switch.

Is the endpoint for a remote, traveling user?

Soft phones are well suited for road warriors who connect through the Internet in their hotel room or other remote locations.

Personal and company-supplied cell phones can be set up to ring when the desk phone rings, to provide both in-building and external mobility.

A network option called Fixed Mobile Convergence enables a user’s smartphone to function as a PBX extension via the office wireless LAN while in the office and via a cellular network out of the office.

In fact, there are a number of ways you can stay in touch when away from your desk.  Another article looks at simple and sophisticated options for remaining connected and productive, wherever you are.