Home » Archive by category 'blog' (Page 16)

8 CPaaS Use Cases

Looking for a way to bring in new communication tools and functionalities to your existing business system? When you identify problems or gaps in your business communication system, you might need to bring in additional features and tools. That’s where CPaaS comes in.

Let’s look at 8 CPaaS use cases, so you can explore the different ways your business can use CPaaS to improve its communication system.

What is CPaaS?

CPaaS or Communications Platform as a Service is an industry category of tools that helps companies add communication features and tools to their existing phone system and applications. Your business can bring additional functionality to its internal business setup via a communication API. This is a great opportunity to combine desired communication tools and features and create a customized business phone solution.

Related: What’s the Difference Between CCaaS and CPaaS?

CPaaS as an API

CPaaS, at its core, works as an Application Programming Interface (API) to let you integrate different tools and features into existing systems. By connecting the API to your system, you can access new features and tools within one cohesive platform instead of juggling multiple providers and services.

For example, Global Call Forwarding offers a phone and communication API that gives our customers an interface to access our network and control different aspects of our services. In some cases, you can go in and purchase numbers or create custom call management rules with our API. At your end, you will need a developer to successfully integrate our API within your system.

What is CPaaS Used for?

CPaaS is a set of communication tools meant to help you solve business and communication problems. In general, most CPaaS use cases include:

  • Voice call handling
  • Call management
  • Advanced routing (IVR / ACD)
  • Call records and history
  • Number/call masking
  • Call recording
  • Notifications and alerts
  • Status updates
  • Reminders and confirmations, and so on.

8 CPaaS Use Cases

While there are many ways you can use CPaaS solutions, let’s look at these 8 common CPaaS use cases:

  1. Inbound and Outbound Voice Call Handling
  2. Phone Number Management
  3. Interactive Voice Response (IVR)
  4. Trigger Callbacks
  5. Sync Call Detail Records
  6. Sync Call Recordings
  7. Call Masking (Number Masking)
  8. Notifications and Alerts

1. Inbound and Outbound Voice Call Handling

Managing inbound and outbound calls is crucial to assisting customers and prospects in completing their purchases or resolving an issue. Call management generally involves call routing, callback triggers, reviewing records, and using IVR to distribute incoming calls. How you handle your call volume determines how easy it is for customers to make purchases and get support.

2. Phone Number Management

You can also get CPaaS solutions to manage your business phone numbers. For example, with the Global Call Forwarding API, you can:

a) View available numbers
View a list of all countries and cities for which numbers are currently available within the Global Call Forwarding network, including the country ID and the country code.

b) Order numbers
Purchase or add a Global Call Forwarding service line (number) on the Standard Plan through the API.

3. Interactive Voice Response (IVR)

An automated voice response system like an IVR answers the call, determines the purpose of the call, and assists the caller with predefined rules set by you. These rules are usually routing rules to assist callers in reaching the right department and getting responsive support.

Set up an IVR system to route callers or help them navigate your phone system on their own with self-service options.

4. Trigger Callbacks

Trigger callbacks when communicating with customers in remote or rural regions, where affordable calling and internet connectivity is hard to come by. Global Call Forwarding offers this service in our Toll Free FlexDial solution.

CPaaS use case #1

5. Sync Call Detail Records

You can sync call detail records for a specific account, service line, or date range with your business systems. When you do this, you can view call detail records (CDRs) to understand your call flow, where customers are calling from, and other relevant customer interaction KPIs.

6. Sync Call Recordings

You can also sync call recordings with your system. When you use a cloud call recording service, you can record inbound and outbound calls and then review or store recordings within your system for future reference.

7. Call Masking (Number Masking)

Here, you can mask your caller ID and phone number by displaying a different number instead, such as a toll-free or local number from that region. Call masking lets you override your outgoing caller ID so that it does not feature an international or private number, which may deter customers from answering.

CPaaS use case #2

8. Notifications and Alerts

Lastly, you can also get notifications and alerts of a specific event within an account, such as a call or voicemail. In advanced CPaaS solutions, you can even send notifications and alerts to your customers for appointment reminders, status updates, and so on.

What CPaaS Solution Do You Need?

With these CPaaS use cases demonstrating how a business can use CPaaS, the next step is to identify what business communication you need to solve. Do you need to route calls more effectively? Do you want to have control over your business phone numbers? Will notifications and alerts optimize your processes? And so on.

Once you identify the issue, you can look for solutions to improve your business communication and overall efficiency. Want to learn more about CPaaS? Call us at +1 (561) 908-6171 or chat with us online!

6 Best Open-Source PBX Solutions

Looking to upgrade your legacy phone system and customize it to fit your exact needs? With an open-source PBX solution, you can design a communication system made for your business. Here’s a list of the 6 best open-source PBX solutions, so you know where to start looking.

Choosing the Right Open-Source PBX Solution

Open-source PBX is a free phone system available to the public under a General Public License (GPL). Your IT team can use this software, pair it with the desired phone service, and create a custom private telephone exchange.

With this flexible and highly customizable option, businesses can combine SIP trunking with open-source PBX software to convert their computers into business phones and phone systems.

cloud pbx

Open-Source PBX Solutions: Top Features to Look for

While each provider offers its own suite of PBX features, here is what most open-source PBX solutions offer:

  • Call forwarding
  • Advanced call routing
  • Call waiting and transfer
  • Call management
  • Interactive voice response (IVR) / Auto-attendant
  • Automatic call distribution (ACD)
  • Direct inward dialing (DID numbers)
  • Phone number management
  • Voice messages (welcome, greeting, hold, voicemail, etc)
  • Voicemail
  • Phone extensions
  • Call recording
Open-source PBX Solution
Source: DepositPhotos.com – Lic#80434210 ID#27446420

6 Best Open-Source PBX Solutions

Here we list the 6 best open-source PBX solutions with information about their PBX software and features, so you can make an informed decision when finding a PBX provider:

  1. Asterisk
  2. SIP Foundry
  3. FreePBX
  4. 3CX
  5. FreeSWITCH
  6. OpenPBX by Voicetronix

1. Asterisk

Asterisk is considered the OG for open-source VoIP and PBX solutions, and it is the gold standard that other PBX solutions aim to achieve in their products. Due to its popularity and reputation, Asterisk is the leading open-source telephony platform that comes equipped with advanced features and services.

Asterisk’s PBX software comes packed with standard PBX features such as IVR, ACD, conference calling, and voicemail. With this software, you can convert any computer into a business communication server.

Asterisk also provides live classes, online training, and a manual to help make training and onboarding easier.

2. SIPFoundry (sipXecs)

SIPFoundry is one of Asterisk’s top competitors and offers many of the solutions that Asterisk does. Like Asterisk, SIPFoundry offers voice, video, conferencing, and messaging, all in one place. They also offer a mobile client for convenience.

While the tool is free, SIPFoundry offers paid professional assistance to businesses and developers to help them create a solution that works best for them. A dedicated support team like this can assist businesses in building their unique phone system.

3. FreePBX

With FreePBX Distro, you can quickly install and configure your Asterisk-based open-source PBX system. The FreePBX software comes with features and integrations and is compatible with most commercially available hardware. And the software is tested and maintained by Sangoma’s Quality Assurance to ensure high quality and security.

They provide instructions and their own FreePBX wiki for guidance and support. Additionally, they run a community of blogs, forums, and events so that developers and users can get help when needed.

4. 3CX

3CX is another open-source PBX software based on the SIP standard. This solution lets users use extensions to make calls via PSTN lines and VoIP services. 3CX offers a GUI that is easy to understand and install on Windows-based machines. They also provide iOS and Android mobile clients and Windows and MAC softphones to increase phone system flexibility. Additionally, with their WebRTC adoption, your teams can use this software for web conferencing as well.

5. FreeSWITCH

Originally based on the Asterisk platform, FreeSWITCH’s open-source PBX platform offers cross-platform support, scalability, and flexibility. FreeSWITCH uses freely available software libraries to operate and manage necessary functions for your PBX. Additionally, it supports SIP, H.323, and WebRTC as well as provides voice and calling features to help your business build its own UC suite.

6. OpenPBX by Voicetronix

Voicetronix, a telecom company, offers both communication hardware and open-source PBX software (OpenPBX) that comes equipped with an extensive suite of features. This do-it-yourself PBX application has a web-based user interface and GUI that makes for quick and easy configuration. It also has basic CRM built within the platform, so your business does not need an additional CRM solution.

Get PBX Solutions from Global Call Forwarding

While Global Call Forwarding offers a cloud PBX solution, we also provide VoIP and SIP trunking services that you can bring into your open-source PBX system. We have helped many customers and businesses switch to a cloud phone system by providing the right phone service that integrates with their existing business phone setup. Want to learn more? Speak with our experts today at +1 (561) 908-6171 or chat with us online!

How Much Does an IP-PBX Cost?

The state of your business communication determines how customers interact with your business. Therefore, it is important to find the right PBX provider to improve connectivity and reliability. With countless PBX systems and providers out there, it is crucial to understand the factors influencing your IP-PBX cost and how to determine what type of PBX system your business needs.

Getting IP-PBX for Your Business

In this article, we will review:

  • IP-PBX features
  • Factors contributing to cloud PBX pricing
  • Different types of IP-PBX systems, and
  • IP-PBX cost breakdown.

IP-PBX Features

While providers offer different PBX features and services, most will offer a basic suite of features along with their IP-PBX service. When looking for a new provider, it helps to determine beforehand what features and tools your teams need to do their jobs well. The top IP-PBX features include:

  • On-premise / Cloud PBX system
  • Inbound and outbound voice calling
  • Local, toll-free, international phone numbers
  • VoIP functionality
  • Advanced IVR / Auto-attendant
  • Voicemail, email, fax
  • Call reporting and records

Factors Contributing to IP-PBX Cost

Let’s dive into the top factors influencing your cloud PBX pricing:

  1. Type of PBX system: on-premise or cloud PBX system
  2. Open-source PBX
  3. Hardware and equipment costs, if applicable
  4. Installation and maintenance costs, if applicable
  5. VoIP phone service cost
  6. Training and onboarding

1. On-Premise vs Cloud PBX System

Your IP-PBX cost is largely based on the type of IP-PBX system you want: on-premise or cloud-based.

An on-premise PBX system is built, hosted, and maintained on-premise (in-office) by your IT team. You can use open-source PBX (more on this below), a free software, to build your on-premise system. Then, bring in the necessary hardware, talent (IT professionals), and a business VoIP solution to make the PBX system functional. This means that your business pays upfront for equipment and installation but is wholly responsible for maintaining and updating it, which can prove costly in the long run.

On the other hand, hosted PBX is a PBX system located in the cloud instead of a typical hardware PBX system. In this case, the system is hosted, maintained, and updated by your provider, typically an off-site data center. You pay a monthly fee to use the system via a public or private Internet connection, and you are only responsible for desk phones and a VoIP service connected to your cloud PBX system.

Here’s an IP-PBX cost breakdown for on-premise and cloud PBX systems:

On-Premise PBX Pricing Breakdown Cloud PBX Pricing Breakdown
PBX license No license required
PBX equipment and hardware (appliances, PBX servers, interface cards, and phones) Hardware and equipment (desk phones and/or softphones)
Installation and maintenance fees Little to no installation and maintenance fees
In-house IT team required In-house IT team not required
Little training and onboarding Little training and onboarding
VoIP / PBX service (monthly fee) VoIP / PBX service (monthly fee)

The cost of an on-premises IP-PBX versus cloud-hosted.

2. Open-Source PBX

Your business may choose to use open source PBX to save on PBX system costs. Open-source PBX is a phone system available to the public for free under a General Public License (GNU). This type of PBX is made up of a Linux operating system and PBX software. As such, you can use this software to convert a computer or laptop into a business phone system.

You can run open-source PBX software online or on-site. The software is customizable and easy to download. You only need hardware (computers and phones) and a VoIP service to complete it. Open-source PBX software comes equipped with typical PBX features like voicemail, IVR / ACD, advanced call routing, and more.

Even though open source PBX is free, you will need a team of administrators and developers with a strong programming and telecom background to customize it for your business communication needs. They also need to understand the fundamentals of VoIP and legacy telephony.

So the costs of operating PBX with an open-source PBX software include:

  • Hardware and installation costs
  • VoIP service
  • Skilled talent
  • Training and onboarding

3. Hardware and Equipment Costs

Here’s a breakdown of hardware and equipment costs associated with a PBX system:

  • On-premise PBX equipment — $5,000-10,000
  • PBX license — $3000
  • Computers — $300-3,000
  • Hard drive space — VoIP servers run 80 GB to 160 GB SATA HDs.
  • Phones:
    • IP phones and handsets — $100-400 per phone
    • Softphones (usually come with VoIP service) — $10-30/month of service

You will pay for all of this with an on-premise system. However, for a hosted PBX system, you will only pay for the phones, installation, and VoIP service (prices below).

4. Installation and Maintenance Costs

Here’s the general price range for PBX system installation and maintenance:

  • On-premise PBX installation, recurring licensing, maintenance, and upgrades — $12,000
  • Cloud PBX — $0-1000

5. VoIP Phone Service Cost

For a PBX system to work effectively, you need to pair it with a phone service. Here’s a breakdown of costs factored in hosted PBX services:

  • LAN — $1,000
  • Hosted VoIP phone service — $10-500/user/month
  • SIP trunking service — $35-100/user/month

6. Training and Onboarding

This varies based on the type of system you get; some are easier to use than others. Based on the complexity of your system, you may or may not need additional training and onboarding.

How Much Does an IP-PBX Cost?

The best way to estimate the price of an IP-PBX system is to calculate on a “per-seat” basis, where “per-seat” is the number of phones or extensions needed. The larger the company, the lower the cost per seat. So, a PBX system for a 400 seat business will be much less than a 60 seat business.

Historically, IP-PBX costs range from $500-1,000 per seat. This range depends on the type of PBX system you use: on-premise, cloud, or open-source.

Hosted PBX costs range from $10-100 per user per month, depending on the services and geographies.

*Note: Costs mentioned in this article are current at the time of publishing and may be subject to changes.

Global Call Forwarding: IP-PBX Cost

Global Call Forwarding offers VoIP and international SIP trunking. You can easily plug our service into your existing PBX system (3CX, Cisco, etc.) or combine it with your open-source PBX set-up (Asterisk, FreePBX, etc). This means that you don’t usually have to pay for equipment (computers or phones) since your business might already have those in place, and you will only pay for the phone service. For instance, you can easily plug SIP trunks into an existing PBX system.

Your IP-PBX cost with Global Call Forwarding:

  • PBX system:
    • Free open source PBX — $0
    • Existing on-premise PBX (no extra equipment needed) — $0-100
  • Monthly phone service (VoIP or SIP trunking):
    • Global Call Forwarding VoIP service — starts at $7.95/month
    • Global Call Forwarding SIP trunking service — starts at $32.95/month
  • Phones
    • Existing desk phones — $0-400
    • GCF softphone (can be used on computers, laptops) comes with our Outbound Calling service — starts at $25/month
    • Installation and setup fees — $0

Get IP-PBX from Global Call Forwarding

Want to learn more about cloud PBX solutions offered by Global Call Forwarding? Chat with our experts online or call us at +1 (561) 908-6171. We’d love to help you find the right business communication solution to improve caller experience and productivity.

How Much Does a Softphone Cost?

As cloud communication grows in popularity and reliability, many businesses are switching over to VoIP to take their communications to the next level. But as your business considers VoIP, it is important to review how much your service will cost you.

In this article, we will review:

  • How much does a softphone cost, and
  • How to determine the right softphone provider for your business

The Costs of Using Softphones for Business Calls

Softphones are a cloud phone service feature that lets users make business calls from any location and device. This makes softphones a good tool for distributed teams to maintain business continuity and for global businesses to call internationally cost-effectively.

What is a Softphone?

A softphone — also known as web phone or web-dialer — is a web-based phone application that allows users to make and receive business calls. The softphone software is a dial pad and uses your VoIP phone service to act as a phone. This is a cloud telephony feature offered by VoIP phone service providers.

Users can download the softphone on their desktop or smartphone or access it via web browser extensions. They then enter their VoIP or SIP credentials given by the cloud phone service provider. Once logged in, they can place calls in-network and to customers by connecting to the internet.

How Much Does a Softphone Cost?

There are different types of softphones offered by service providers; some free, some paid. To choose the right softphone provider, you will need to determine the features and tools essential for your business communication system.

Free softphones come in handy for one-off calls and quick service. If your business needs to make a quick call but does not need a regular service, then a free softphone may be your cost-effective solution. Note that while these softphones are free, they may lack in capability and features, and therefore, are not always recommended for business use.

Paid softphones will give you the real VoIP experience along with a full suite of features and tools. With these softphones, you can make and receive voice and video calls, manage calls with advanced routing, integrate with your CRM, and connect from any location and device. On average, a softphone costs about $50-70. However, your softphone cost depends on where you get it and for what purpose.

Softphones from VoIP providers come equipped with features and tools to boost your business communication. Some VoIP providers offer softphones for free with their service or a particular product. For example, you can get the Global Call Forwarding softphone when you sign up for our Outbound Calling service.

Global Call Forwarding Softphone Cost

As mentioned, you can get the Global Call Forwarding softphone with any of our Outbound Calling plans, starting at $25/month.

So, with a Basic outbound plan ($25/month) and a Basic inbound plan ($7.95/month), the GCF softphone costs $35.95/month.

*Note: Costs mentioned in this article are current at the time of publishing and may be subject to changes.

Choosing the Right Softphone Provider

While you might be tempted to pick the first softphone provider that turns up on your search, it is a good idea to consider different providers before making your decision. To find the right softphone, you must:

1. Determine what your teams need

Review your internal and external communication infrastructure and consider different services and features that can help you optimize communication. In other words, how can you make it easier and cost-effective for employees to call local and global customers? What do you need to route calls effectively across different offices? How can you reduce call abandonment?

2. Research and review different providers

Next, look at the top VoIP and softphone providers to understand what they offer businesses like yours. What do you need to do or buy in order to use their softphone? Review and compare their features, prices, and customer testimonials.

3. Understand features offered

Next, what features do they offer as part of their service and within the softphone? How can these features help your business overcome its communication challenges? Can this service support your local, remote, and global teams?

4. Buy a softphone and start making calls

Once you have reviewed different providers, plans, and features, you can see which fits your requirements and budget best. Then, you can buy or subscribe to the service. Show your team how to download and use the softphone, and start placing business calls.

Get the GCF Softphone

Global Call Forwarding offers our in-house softphone along with our Outbound Calling plan. You can use the GCF softphone to connect your local, remote, and global teams through one centralized hub. Make outbound calls with your business phone numbers, transfer calls within teams, and stay connected from anywhere in the world.

Using SIP Trunks with an Open-Source PBX

When building your business communication ecosystem, it is important to consider different options to find one that fits your needs. And while there are many pre-made communication and contact center solutions, your business may need something closer to home and tailor-made for your precise needs. That’s where open-source PBX and VoIP solutions like SIP trunking come in handy.

Open-Source PBX for Business Communication

In short, open-source PBX is a free phone system available to the public. It’s usually made up of Linux OS and PBX software, which allows users to program it to meet their needs and convert computers and laptops into a business phone system.

Benefits of Open-Source PBX

Businesses with a strong in-house IT team of developers and programmers might find open-source PBX more to their liking. This is because you can tailor and customize the PBX software to fit your business needs and connect your local, remote, and distributed teams with one central hub.

There are many benefits to using open-source PBX to upgrade your business communication system. These include:

  • Substantial cost-savings
  • Easier to install and manage
  • Highly customizable
  • Phone and call management
  • Can add different communication features and tools
  • Adding cloud functionality to your communication
  • Compatible with SIP phones, IP phones, and other devices

Top Open-Source PBX Solutions to Consider

If you want to customize your business communication and have an excellent team of in-house developers and programmers, then open-source PBX can expand and enhance your communication system. Top open-source PBX solutions include:

  • Asterisk
  • SIP Foundry
  • FreePBX
  • 3CX
  • Elastix
  • FreeSWITCH
  • OpenPBX by Voicetronix

To learn more about these providers, check out our comparison of open-source PBX solutions.

SIP trunks and open source PBX used together.

What is SIP Trunking?

SIP trunking is a telephony solution that transmits voice communication (voice calls) from one endpoint to another. Global SIP trunks hold up to 30 SIP channels, which enable simultaneous two-way connections through a VoIP provider.

Connecting SIP to your PBX system lets you bring cloud communication functionality to your phone system as well as other voice and call features.

Using SIP Trunks with Open-Source PBX

SIP trunks can be connected to an IP-PBX system or an open-source PBX software that connects incoming calls with extensions with an organization or company. And so, if your business has direct inward dialing (DID) or a bunch of DID numbers assigned to different employees and departments, you can forward incoming calls to your open-source PBX system, and then route them as needed.

Since SIP trunks can handle multiple calls at the same time, you can turn your PBX into a full-fledged business communication system by including other necessary features and tools.

Key takeaway: An open-source PBX and SIP trunking combination lets you build communication that works for your business. With such a customizable solution, you are not stuck in rigid systems with features and services that you do not fully use. Instead, you have a system designed to maximize employee productivity and efficiency while also improving customer experience.

SIP Trunks and Open-Source PBX with Global Call Forwarding

Global Call Forwarding offers a VoIP and SIP trunking service that can be easily integrated into your existing PBX system — including your open-source solution. To bring our SIP trunks into your system, you will first need to buy SIP trunks.

Then, you will enter your SIP credentials into the PBX system to configure the SIP trunks. You can even configure call routing and forwarding rules for advanced call management.

Our SIP trunking service is compatible with paid and open-source PBX solutions from Genesys, 3CX, FreePBX, Asterisk, Cisco, and more.

Example: How to Set Up a 3cx Phone With SIP Trunking

Finding the Right SIP Trunking Provider

Just like there are multiple PBX providers, you will also come across many SIP providers in your research. However, to choose the right provider, you first need to determine what you need from the service and how much you can spend on this legacy phone system upgrade.

Speak with our representatives to learn more about our SIP trunking service and how we can complement your PBX system. Chat with us online or call us at +1 (561) 908-6171.

What’s the Difference Between CCaaS and CPaaS?

When designing your business communication system, you will come across a variety of solutions. This can make choosing the right solution difficult, especially when they are not defined clearly.

Here, we explain the differences between CCaaS and CPaaS, two cloud-based communication solutions, so that you can make the right choice for your business.

Understanding CCaaS and CPaaS

Communication technology continues to evolve with new advancements, and this evolution has led to terms like UC, UCaaS, CCaaS, and CPaaS. What all these have in common is that they make business communication across borders much more manageable, reliable, and cost-effective.

Let’s look closely at CCaaS and CPaaS, their similarities, differences, features, and benefits.

Related: Business Communication Stats: 2022

Similarities Between CCaaS and CPaaS

Although CCaaS and CPaaS serve different purposes and functions, there are a few similarities between the two services, such as:

  • Cloud-based communication services
  • Quick installation
  • No hardware required
  • Low-cost phone system
  • Brings automation and integrations to your phone system
  • Access to advanced reporting and analytics
  • Increases employee productivity
  • Scalable and flexible solution

What is CCaaS? Definition, Features, and Benefits

Contact Center as a Service (CCaaS) is a cloud-based method for business and customer communication. A CCaaS platform consolidates multiple voice and calling features and tools in one platform to improve customer and caller experience.

CCaaS Features

  • Inbound and outbound calling
  • Call queuing
  • Call monitoring
  • Advanced call routing and IVR
  • Low-code/no-code
  • Automatic call distribution
  • Call recording
  • Call analytics

CCaaS Benefits

  • Quick startup with a plug-and-play setup
  • Cost-effective as CCaaS is significantly less than investing in a legacy phone system
  • Variety of voice and call features
  • Advanced analytics and reporting to track performance.

What is CPaaS? Definition, Features, and Benefits

Communications Platform as a Service (CPaaS) is a cloud solution that enables businesses to add real-time communication features to their own business applications. In other words, CPaaS lets businesses add their communication features and functionality — through an API — to their existing business setup. This way, you can integrate essential business applications within your other system, leaving you with a custom communication stack.

CPaaS Features

    • Phone number management
    • Call management
    • Outbound voice calls
    • Inbound call routing
    • WebRTC-based calling
  • On-demand SIP trunking
  • Number masking

CPaaS Benefits

  • Real-time communication
  • Customization
  • Easy integration
  • Affordable and scalable

Related: Common CPaaS Use Cases

CCaaS vs CPaaS: 6 Main Differences

Here’s an overview of the differences between CCaaS and CPaaS and how they support business communication systems:

CCaaS CPaaS
1. Focus Focuses on communication with customers Focuses on all types of business communication (internal and external)
2. Purpose Enhances business continuity via channels preferred by customers Ensures smooth connectivity inside and outside the business
3. Benefit Useful for customer-centric businesses or contact centers Useful for building a bridge among employees, customers, and the company
4. Flexibility Complete software that makes customer handling fast and convenient Offers businesses flexibility to bring in different communication tools based on their needs
5. Compatibility CCaaS is used as a whole; cannot be fragmented CPaaS works as a building block combined with other services and channels
6. Customizable CCaaS is a custom-made option for businesses wanting to set up their own contact center, but does not offer room for changes in its coding. CPaaS allows you to customize the communication channels according to their needs and customer demands.

CCaaS vs CPaaS: Which is Right for Your Business?

So, which communication solution does your business need? This depends on what you want to accomplish with an upgraded phone system. It’s a good idea to research and contact different cloud phone service providers to understand what they have to offer and how they can help you migrate your communications to the cloud.

Learn more about the cloud telephony solutions offered by Global Call Forwarding by speaking with our experts. Call us at +1 (561) 908-6171 or chat with us online today!

How Much Does an IVR Cost?

IVR systems go a long way in helping businesses manage their incoming call flow and efficiently distribute calls across different departments and offices. Choosing the right IVR provider includes understanding how their software works and how they determine their IVR cost.

An IVR system typically costs $7.95 per month plus $0.02 to $0.10 per minute. However, the total cost of an IVR depends on a few factors.

This will help you determine which provider fits within your communication budget and needs.

IVR System Costs: Factors to Consider

IVR systems are automated voice response systems that answer incoming calls and assist callers based on predetermined rules set by your business. Including such phone system automation can help improve caller experience and reduce wait times.

The IVR can determine the reason for the call and direct the caller to the right department or agent. This service is offered by phone service providers, both traditional (on-premise) and cloud providers.

How much an IVR system costs depends on the following factors:

1. On-premise or Cloud IVR

You first need to consider what type of IVR system you want to work with: on-premise or cloud IVR. On-premise IVR systems mean that you will have the hardware and servers located in your office and managed by your IT staff.

Cloud IVR is hosted, managed, and updated by a cloud phone service provider. Cloud IVR is generally more affordable than on-premise IVR because you do not need additional equipment or maintenance to make it work effectively.

2. Included or Charged Additionally

Since most IVR systems come as part of a phone service package, you must determine whether your provider includes IVR in the total cost or if they charge separately. For example, Global Call Forwarding offers cloud IVR and other free features with a virtual phone number plan. You buy the phone number and get access to the features without an additional cost.

3. Number of Business Lines

If your IVR service comes along with a business phone number plan, then the IVR cost is the total cost of the number of business phone lines you need. Because each line will have IVR functionality, the perceived IVR cost from that service equals the cost of business phone lines. And since the IVR service comes with the numbers, you do not actually pay any additional fees.

4. Simple or Complex Setup

Most IVR systems offered are flexible and customizable, and with an intuitive control panel, your teams should be able to design the call flow on their own. However, depending on your needs and setup, you might require additional help.

It is therefore essential to determine beforehand whether you need a simple or complex IVR setup and how your provider can support you.

Some providers offer tutorials during the onboarding process to help you understand how to use the software and build your IVR. Others may offer to set it up for you for an additional fee.

Related: How to Set Up Interactive Voice Response (IVR)

Find out more about IVR pricing and costs.

5. Cost of Voice Recordings

The last factor contributing to the total IVR cost is the price of voice recordings. You will need recordings for each message within your IVR system. This may include the opening announcement (welcome message), navigation and directions (for sales, press 1, etc.), confirmation messages, follow-up messages, voicemail messages, and so on.

You may have the option to record and upload your own recordings (free) or buy recordings from your provider (additional fee). Alternatively, you can purchase recordings from recording and audio services available online.

What types of recordings you need and where to get them from depends on your setup. For example, if you offer global customer support, you may need your IVR to provide support in different languages and dialects.

IVR cost guide 2024
Global Call Forwarding: Cloud IVR Cost Breakdown

IVR is free with all of our phone number plans. We offer a call flow builder and IVR manager within our control panel, where you can design and adjust your call flows and IVR menus as and when needed.

*Note: Costs mentioned in this article are current at the time of publishing and may be subject to changes.

1. Cost of Virtual Phone Number

We offer a customizable cloud IVR system that is hosted by our servers. This means that you do not have to worry about maintaining the software. You simply design your IVR as desired.

The main cost of an IVR system with Global Call Forwarding is the cost of the virtual number. And so, you do not pay any additional rates for our IVR service. For example, our US numbers start at $7.95/month with access to our full IVR manager.

2. Additional Cost for Complex Configuration (if applicable)

Our IVR manager and call flow builder are easy to use and accessible through the control panel. Once you activate your service with us, you will have access to the IVR editor and tutorials on using it during the onboarding process.

If you have a more complex setup that needs additional configuration, you can reach out to your account manager. Together with our tech support team, we can help you set up your system. For a very complex setup, we may require a small additional fee.

3. Cost of Voice Recordings (if applicable)

For voice message recordings, you have a few options:

  • Manage your voice recordings in-house (free) — that is, you have someone within your team record the messages
  • Ask your provider to record (small additional fee)
  • Pay a professional recording and audio service or freelancers to record (pro costs).

When choosing a professional recording service, keep in mind that some have a subscription model where you pay per month of usage, while others have a one-time payment option.

Some professional services start as low as $50 per 75 words or $20 for 10 seconds or less. Alternatively, you can hire someone on freelance marketplaces like Fiverr for as low as $20 per 120 words. These creators have a professional voice studio and a quick turnaround time. You can include add-ons such as background music, proofreading, fast delivery, script, etc.

Get Cloud IVR with Global Call Forwarding

So, your total IVR cost is equivalent to the cost of the service, voice recordings, and add-ons. However, if you get a cloud IVR system and manage recordings in-house, you can cut down on expenses.

Global Call Forwarding offers cloud communication tools to businesses across the globe. Our virtual phone service comes paired with no-code communication and call management features that let you organize and optimize your business phone system. Want to learn more about our IVR manager and call flow builder? Chat with our experts or call us at +1 (561) 908-6171.

How Much Does a Virtual Number Cost?

Virtual phone numbers (also called hosted numbers or cloud phone numbers) can help your business expand its services and support to cover more countries and regions across the globe. All without needing to open physical offices in these locations.

Here’s an in-depth guide to the cost of virtual numbers. We discuss the factors contributing to the cost and include a list of virtual number costs for major countries around the world.

Virtual Number Cost: Factors to Consider

Virtual phone numbers are cloud-based business phone numbers that companies can use to reach customers in different parts of the world. Residents from these countries or regions can call your virtual number for free or local calling rates, and you can forward those calls to your business office or customer support center located anywhere in the world.

Because these numbers transmit calls over the internet, your business can use these numbers to connect with and offer customer support to global customers, even if you do not have a physical office in target regions.

Virtual numbers cost between $7-$20 / month per number, but this varies from country to country.

How much virtual number costs depends on the following factors:

1. Call volume
Your business’ monthly call volume greatly influences your monthly bill. So consider, how many calls do your teams need to make on a regular basis — separately or simultaneously? And how much call time do you expect?

2. The location of the caller
One of the most significant factors contributing to the cost of a virtual number is the caller’s location; in other words, where your callers are calling from. For example, calls from one country may ring more expensive than calls from another. Additionally, the device — landline, mobile, or payphone — they call from also affects the cost.

3. The type of virtual number
There are a few different types of virtual numbers, namely toll-free, local, national, international toll-free, and mobile. Each number type has a different cost. Generally, local and (international) toll-free numbers cost less than national and mobile numbers. But the caller’s location can influence this, leading to some local and toll-free numbers costing more. It’s always a good idea to check with your provider which option is the most cost-effective when you buy hosted phone numbers.

4. Call termination (call forwarding costs)
Call termination is the process of forwarding calls from one provider to another. Your plan’s included minutes and an additional per minute rate depending on where your calls are forwarded. You do have the option to eliminate termination costs by routing incoming calls to a VoIP or SIP address instead.

5. Additional features and services
Premium add-ons and additional services can increase your overall cost. You should have the ability to get important premium features like outbound calling, IVR, call forwarding, etc., at a reasonable rate. If the prices for these services are too high, you may want to consider a different service.

virtual number cost research

Global Call Forwarding: Virtual Number Breakdown

Here, we break down our current virtual phone number costs for the most popular countries. We include our basic monthly plan, SIP trunking price, and forwarding rates:

*Note: Costs mentioned in this article are current at the time of publishing and may be subject to changes.

1. US Virtual Numbers
To buy a US phone number, you can review our rates below and sign up on our Pricing page. We offer:

US local phone number cost: $7.95 / month
US toll-free number cost: $12.95 / month

2. Canada Virtual Numbers
With Canada virtual numbers, you can connect with locals in Canada and the United States. We offer:

Canada local phone number cost: $7.95 / month
Canada toll-free number cost: $7.95 / month

3. Mexico Virtual Numbers
Mexico virtual numbers let you communicate with Mexico and US customers for low calling rates. We offer:

Mexico local phone number cost: $12.95 / month
Mexico toll-free number cost: $12.95 / month

4. Germany Virtual Numbers
Connect with prospects and customers in Germany with Germany virtual numbers. We offer:

Germany local phone number cost: $12.95 / month
Germany toll-free number cost: $28.95 / month

5. UAE Virtual Numbers
UAE virtual numbers can help your business offer sales and support to businesses and customers in the UAE. We offer:

UAE toll-free number cost: $28.95

6. UK Virtual Numbers
Use UK virtual numbers to extend your operations and services to the United Kingdom. We offer:

UK local phone number cost: $7.95 / month
UK toll-free number cost: $12.95 / month

7. Australia Virtual Numbers
With Australia virtual numbers, you can connect with local companies, suppliers, vendors, and business contacts in the country. We offer:

Australia local phone number cost: $12.95 / month
Australia toll-free number cost: $23.95 / month

8. Philippines Virtual Numbers
Buy Philippines virtual numbers and add locals to your customer base. We offer:

Philippines local phone number cost: $23.95 / month
Philippines toll-free number cost: $28.95 / month

9. Malaysia Virtual Numbers
Bring in more sales from Asia by using Malaysia virtual numbers to work closely with Malaysian customers. We offer:

Malaysia local phone number cost: $39.95 / month
Malaysia toll-free number cost: $27.95 / month

10. Hong Kong Virtual Numbers
Expand your reach in Asia with Hong Kong virtual numbers that give you access to potential Hong Kong and China customers.
We offer:

Hong Kong local phone number cost: $11.95 / month
Hong Kong toll-free number cost: $12.95 / month

11. Singapore Virtual Numbers
With Singapore virtual numbers, your business can connect with locals in Singapore without needing a physical office or support team located in the country. We offer:

Singapore toll-free number cost: $18.95 / month

12. Indonesia Virtual Numbers
Use Indonesia virtual numbers to increase sales and offer customer support to local customers in the country. We offer:

Indonesia local phone number cost: $48.95 / month
Indonesia toll-free number cost: $28.95 / month

13. Vietnam Virtual Numbers
Want to expand to Vietnam? Buy Vietnam virtual numbers and add a whole new customer base to your customers. We offer:

Vietnam local phone number cost: $34.95 / month
Vietnam toll-free number cost: $78.95 / month

14. Japan Virtual Numbers
Get Japan virtual numbers and sell your product or service in Japan. We offer:

Japan local phone number cost: $17.95 / month
Japan toll-free number cost: $38.95 / month

15. China Virtual Numbers
Use China virtual numbers to connect with customers, prospects, suppliers, and vendors in China. We offer:

China local phone number cost: $28.95 / month
China toll-free number cost: $44.95 / month

16. India Virtual Numbers
Take your business to India with India virtual numbers. We offer:

India local phone number cost: $38.95 / month
India toll-free number cost: $38.95 / month

Choose Your Virtual Phone Number Now!

Virtual numbers are a cost-effective and reliable tool to expand your business, reach global customers, and increase international sales. Global Call Forwarding offers a variety of international virtual phone numbers from more than 160 countries around the world. Browse our inventory and view virtual number costs on our pricing page. Have questions? Chat with our experts or call us at +1 (561) 908-6171.

9 Best US Toll-Free Number Providers in 2024

Looking for a new toll-free number provider? It is easy to get overwhelmed among the many US toll-free number providers out there. How do you choose one, and what should you look for? Here we discuss 9 top US toll-free providers, so you know where to start.

Finding the Right US Toll-Free Number Provider

When looking for toll-free numbers, you will quickly realize that there are many US toll-free number providers out there. However, not all will provide high-quality service, advanced features, and responsive customer support. So, you need to research and identity the right provider for your needs and budget.

Types of US Toll-Free Numbers

It is important to determine what type of US toll-free numbers you need. This way, you can shortlist US toll-free number providers to ones that have your desired number type. Here are the main types of toll-free numbers in the US:

Standard US toll-free numbers — Well-known US toll-free numbers with common toll-free prefixes 800, 833, 844, 855, 866, 877, or 888.

Premium US 800 numbers — These numbers start with 1-800 (the original toll-free code) and are considered “premium” due to their limited availability.

Vanity toll-free numbers — Toll-free numbers with letters or patterns inserted within to make them more memorable. Examples include 1-800-FLOWERS.

What to Look for in a Toll-Free Number Provider?

Types of toll-free numbers offered

  • Suite of features and services offered
  • Competitive pricing and flexible payment options
  • Experience and reputation
  • Reliable and redundant network
  • Responsive customer and technical support
  • Customer testimonials and case studies

9 Best US Toll-Free Number Providers

Here we list the top 9 US toll-free number providers with information about features and pricing so that you can make an informed decision:

  • Global Call Forwarding
  • FreedomVoice
  • eVoice
  • Callture
  • Bandwidth
  • Officetree
  • 800.com
  • Vonage
  • Grasshopper

*Note: Costs mentioned in this article are current at the time of publishing and may be subject to changes.

1. Global Call Forwarding

Global Call Forwarding is a US toll-free number provider bringing international phone numbers and cloud communication solutions to businesses all over the world.

Features:

  • Business phone number
  • Local and international toll-free service
  • Inbound call management
  • Advanced cloud IVR and ACD
  • SIP trunking
  • Number porting
  • Call flow builder and IVR manager
  • Call masking and caller ID management
  • Softphone mobile and desktop app, and more

US toll-free number cost:

  • Toll-free number — $12.95/month for 300 minutes
  • Toll-free premium — $18.95/month for 300 minutes
  • Vanity toll-free — $28.95/month for 300 minutes
  • Additional minutes billed at 4 cents per minute.

2. FreedomVoice

FreedomVoice is a business telecom provider that offers cloud phone systems to small businesses and helps them grow while on a small-business budget.

Features:

  • Business phone numbers
  • Auto-attendant
  • Voicemail and fax
  • Mobile app
  • Caller ID
  • Number porting
  • Text messaging
  • Unlimited extensions
  • Call queue and rotation
  • Ring groups, and more

US toll-free number cost:

  • Toll-free number — starts at $9.95/month for 400 minutes
  • Toll-free vanity number — starts at $9.95/month for 400 minutes
  • Additional minutes billed at 3.9 cents per minute.

3. eVoice

eVoice is a virtual business phone service that offers business phone numbers along with virtual communication features to fit businesses of every size.

Features:

  • Business phone numbers
  • Call forwarding
  • Virtual voicemail
  • Auto-attendant
  • Inbound call management
  • Custom greetings
  • Advanced reports
  • Mobile app, and more

US toll-free number cost:

  • Toll-free number — starts at $14/user/month

4. Callture

Callture is a business phone service provider offering a suite of UC tools and features to bring voice, video, chat, and text together within one communication platform.

Features:

  • Inbound and outbound calls
  • Business phone numbers
  • Cloud-based phone system
  • Call forwarding and routing
  • Separate fax number
  • UC features such as video conferencing, chat, and text
  • Conference calling
  • Call queue and call transfer
  • Caller ID
  • Mobile app, and more

US toll-free number cost:

  • Toll-free number — starts at $26.50/user/month

5. Bandwidth

Bandwidth is a cloud communication platform that provides customers with business phone numbers, cloud telephony features, and communication APIs.

Features:

  • Toll-free services
  • Phone number and caller ID management
  • VoIP origination and termination
  • International long distance
  • SMS gateway
  • SIP trunking
  • Integrations
  • Communication APIs, and more

US toll-free number cost:

  • You will need to contact Bandwidth’s sales team for their toll-free number costs.

6. Officetree

Officetree offers users with a suite of cloud-based business applications such as phone, CRM, invoice, help desk, messenger, and more. Under their phone apps and services, they offer toll-free and local phone numbers with SMS.

Features:

  • Business phone numbers
  • Department and user extensions
  • IVR menu and custom messages
  • Visual voicemail
  • Call screening, and more

US toll-free number cost:

  • Toll-free number — starts at $3.99/month for 30 minutes
    $49 activation fee

7. 800.com

800.com provides toll-free numbers that can route calls to cell phones, landlines, and other lines. Businesses can use these features along with top call management features to improve caller experience.

Features:

  • Call forwarding
  • Call blocking
  • Voicemail to email
  • Call notes
  • Call recording
  • Reports (call and fax)
  • Caller ID, and more

US toll-free number cost:

  • Personal — $23/month for 1000 minutes and 1 toll-free number
  • Unlimited — $59/month for unlimited minutes and 1 toll-free number
  • Pro — $239/month for unlimited seats (includes 5000 minutes) for 5 toll-free numbers

8. Vonage

Vonage offers voice, messaging, and video services through their unified communications (UC) and contact center solutions as well as their communication APIs.

Features:

  • UC features and tools
  • Call forwarding
  • Follow me forwarding
  • Cell phone integration
  • Mobile app
  • Voicemail and fax to email
  • Multiple devices on extension
  • Call groups
  • Call monitoring and conferencing, and more

US toll-free number cost:

  • Mobile plan — $19.99/line/month + taxes and fees
  • Premium plan — $29.99/line/month + taxes and fees
  • Advanced plan — $39.99/line/month + taxes and fees

9. Grasshopper

Grasshopper offers business phone numbers with a virtual phone system that lets users keep work and personal life separate while still being professional and responsive.

Features:

  • Mobile and desktop apps
  • Business phone numbers
  • Business texting
  • Call forwarding
  • VoIP calling
  • Virtual fax
  • Voicemail
  • Extensions
  • Custom greetings
  • Call transfers
  • Simultaneous call handling
  • Reporting, and more

US toll-free number cost:

  • Solo — $29/month — 1 phone number and 3 extensions
  • Partner — $49/month — 3 phone numbers and 6 extensions
  • Small Business — $89/month — 5 phone numbers and unlimited extensions
  • Additional phone numbers can be added, post-purchase, for $10/mo each

Global Call Forwarding: a US Toll-Free Number Provider

Part of reviewing different US toll-free number providers is reaching out to them and finding out how they can support your business communication needs. To learn more about US toll-free numbers offered by Global Call Forwarding, speak with our experts today! Call us at +1 (561) 908-6171 or chat with us online.