You wouldn’t want to buy your data and phone equipment out of the trunk of a car. And, you wouldn’t want it installed by some kid who “knows a little about taking a computer apart”, right?
You spend a lot of your company’s budget to get the best system and products for your business, so, you deserve to have them be authentic, quality products and installed by the best qualified technicians.
Here is a check list to help verify you are getting your money’s worth:
Make sure the technician or engineer who installs your equipment is fully trained and certified on the product they are installing.
You wouldn’t hire a plumber to install and electrical outlet, right? It’s better to have someone who truly understands the system, has been through a certification process and has the right training to properly install your new equipment.
Verify the vendor you choose is authorized by the manufacturer to sell the equipment they are installing.
There are lots of contractors out there selling systems they are not authorized to sell. Check their status with the manufacturer. This could really impact your warranty status and void any claims you might need should the system falter. It will also impact your ability to reach higher levels of technical support should it become necessary.
Check the references of the system you are purchasing.
There are a lot of little start up phone systems and hosted services out there. Find out how long they have been in business, how many systems are out there and look at some case studies. Any manufacturer worth their salt will be able to provide this information readily. Be leery of any manufacturer that hasn’t been in business for very long. Flashing lights and bells & whistles are cool, but if they don’t work consistently with how you need the system to perform specifically for you, they are worthless.
Know what features you need, and what features you want ahead of time.
If you have questions, ask them! Knowledge is power.
Get it in writing and don’t sign off until you get everything agreed upon.
Verify the products you receive are new and not “re-manufactured” or used unless already agreed upon.
Read the fine print and verify that you have taken care of all your responsibilities for the install.
Check the references of the installation company.
How long have they been in business? How many people do they have for a support staff? What are their emergency protocols? Have they sold any like systems? DO call their reference list.
There are a lot of horror stories out there.
Protect yourself and don’t blow the budget on something that doesn’t work for your business.
About ECS
ECS, headquartered in Auburn, WA, is a team of experts ready to help businesses with the important and often complicated decision of finding the best communication solutions for their company, from voice to data. Servicing Washington & Oregon, ECS is an Avaya SME Expert Business Partner focusing on the IP Office platform and specializing in Voice over IP.
(Article by Charles Bressler – ECS Account Manager)
For more information contact ECS at (253) 886-5400 or visit us on the web at www.GoECS.com