How to Migrate from Traditional PBX to VoIP Systems?

PBX to VoIP migration checklist, 7 simple steps

Table of contents


The world is evolving with new communication and technology. With this change, no business wants to stick to the old tools and techniques.

PBX was once the backbone of many companies, but its use is reducing due to its limitations and increased demand for modern connectivity and flexibility. Many businesses are now looking for versatile solutions such as VoIP systems in response to this demand. The migration from PBX to VoIP is not just a technical upgrade but a move to grow the business and adapt to change.


What Is PBX, and How Does it Work?

PBX stands for Private Branch Exchange. It is a system that manages incoming and outgoing calls in any company. It allows users to communicate internally and externally using different communication channels, like ISDN or analog. PBX also includes hardware that manages call routing and switching between a phone network and various business sites.

A PBX system links many phone numbers into a single number. When someone calls, the system routes the call to the appropriate department. It allows internal communication between employees and external communication with clients and users.

What Is VoIP, and How Does it Work?

VoIP stands for ‘Voice over Internet Protocol’. Unlike traditional landlines, VoIP allows telephonic calls over the Internet and provides additional features and functionalities that traditional landlines don’t.

The VoIP phone system turns the analog signal into a digital signal through packet switching technology and transfers through the internet via VoIP technology.

VoIP vs PBX

The key difference between PBX and VoIP is that PBX uses the traditional phone line and hardware to transmit data, whereas VoIP uses the Internet.
 

Factors

PBX

VoIP

Technology basedPBX is hardware-based and requires physical installation.VoIP operates under the internet without the need for a traditional phone line.
ScalabilityScaling up with PBX is more challenging, as it requires additional hardware.It is easily scalable through the software configurations.
LimitationPBX system can only handle voice calls.VoIP also handles instant messages and conference calls.

Features

It has the standard features like call transfer and voicemail.It has advanced features like video calls, a mobile app, and integration with different applications.

Call Charges

International calls through PBX are typically charged higher.International calls through VoIP are usually lower in rates.

How do Businesses Benefit from Switching to VoIP from a PBX System?

Switching to VoIP from a traditional PBX system provides many benefits for businesses of all sizes, whether startups or large industries. Some of the benefits are:

1. Advanced Features and Functionalities

VoIP systems have more features than PBXs. They offer many advanced features with customizable options. Some features include call routing, call recording, voicemail to email, real-time call tracking, and more.

2. Affordable Pricing

One of the biggest advantages of using a VoIP system is its lower calling rate. As VoIP uses the internet to transmit calls, businesses can eliminate costs associated with traditional systems and long-distance call charges. They also have a lower operating cost than PBX.

3. Mobility and Remote Work

You can access the VoIP business phone system from any location with the internet. It establishes a connection without the need for a physical office presence or dedicated landlines.

4. More Scalable

VoIP offers more scalability and flexibility than a PBX system. You can easily add or remove phone lines according to your needs. As such, it offers a great solution for expanding businesses.

5. Integration with Other Business Tools

VoIP technologies integrate very well with various business applications, including customer relationship management (CRM) systems, email, and file-sharing services. This helps improve your operation and teamwork.

PBX to VoIP Migration Checklist: 7 Simple Steps

1. Evaluate the Current Infrastructure and Requirements

The first step in the PBX migration involves assessing the existing infrastructure. This involves checking your hardware, software, and network capabilities to identify what system needs to be upgraded or replaced. Understanding these elements helps you select a VoIP solution that meets your business needs.

2. Define Migration Goals

Setting clear migration goals helps to ensure the smooth transition from PBX to VoIP. The goals should be specific and align with the business objectives. This should include both budgetary and time frames for migration. While setting your goal, also consider the long-term benefits, such as cost savings on calls and maintenance.

3. Select the Best Voip Provider

Selecting the right VoIP provider is very important for reliable services and long-term success. Choose the provider that offers advanced features and reliability to meet business needs.

4. Create Interdepartmental Team

Migration to VoIP affects every team in your organization. Hence, involve the members from all the departments in your migrational planning. So, form the migrational team including members from every department such as IT, human resources, operations, and any other relevant departments.

5. Implement the Migrational Planning

After planning and forming the migrational team, it's time to implement your plan. This plan should include all the processes from initial set-up to full implementation. The process involves configuring and installing the VoIP into your existing system.

6. Train the team

Training is crucial for a smooth transition.  After implementing the new system, train your employees. The training sessions should cover using the new system effectively, understanding new features, and troubleshooting common issues.

7. Assess the Security Aspect and Hold the Test

The biggest concern while migrating from PBX to VoIP is the security. Consider setting up a firewall in your system. The firewall checks all incoming and outgoing data according to predetermined security plans and policies.

After ensuring the security, hold the test to make sure the system works well.

How to Upgrade from a PBX Phone System to Calilio’s VoIP?

Ready to replace the PBX phone system with the VoIP system? For the most advanced system, upgrade to Calilio. It offers a feature-rich VoIP solution that elevates your business communications with advanced technology and customizable features. The steps to upgrade from a PBX phone system to Calilio’s VoIP are as follows:
 

  • Download the Calilio App.
  • Sign Up/Sign in With Calilio by providing the necessary information.
  • Go to ‘Settings’> ‘Number’ section. Purchase a virtual mobile number.
  • Make a purchase approval request.
  • Customize the additional features according to your requirements.
  • Start making a call.

Conclusion

Migrating from PBX to a VoIP phone system may seem complex in the beginning. However, the process is pretty simple. You just need to select the right system and then implement it in your organization by forming a proper team.

Get your VoIP phone system from Calilio. We not only offer the easiest way to upgrade your business communication solution but also provide the added VoIP features to your system.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of migrating traditional PBX to a VoIP system?

VoIP systems offer a number of benefits over PBX systems, such as lower communication costs, improved scalability, increased flexibility, and advanced features like remote work and software integration.

What Equipment Is Required to Switch to VoIP Services?

Switching to VoIP services requires a router or modem, a VoIP phone adapter, and a stable network connection.

Is VoIP better than PBX?

Yes, VoIP is better than PBX. It is more affordable and provides more features and functionalities than PBX. It allows you to add phone lines without expanding the physical infrastructure on-site.

How Much Does It Cost to Migrate Traditional PBX to VoIP Systems?

The exact cost to switch from traditional PBX to VoIP systems differs from one service provider to another. Calilio offers to make a switch at an affordable cost. Its VoIP plans start from $12 only.

Does VoIP require a PBX?

No, VoIP doesn’t require PBX. A strong internet connection and VoIP-enabled devices are only essential for VoIP.


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