Whether you are running a small company from an office or are operating a huge firm that spans several sites, proper internal communication is a must in all your activities. Losing calls, disconnected teams, and costly long-distance calls are issues that eat into both your time and financial resources each day. This is precisely where a PABX system Bahrain businesses comes to play.In our comprehensive guide, we explain what PABX system is, how it works, types of systems, and more importantly, why using a professional PABX system in Bahrain is such a smart thing to do for any business.
What Is a PABX System?
Private Automatic Branch Exchange or simply PABX is a telephone system used by a firm or an organization where the members can talk with each other inside their company without going through the telephone exchange outside and also have an outside line connected to them in case of emergency.
PABX can be seen as your company’s own telephone exchange. Rather than giving individual telephone lines to all your members (and it would cost you a bomb), you get all your telephones linked to one unit which handles all your telephone connections and calls and takes care of everything.Here comes in the ‘automatic’ aspect of PABX. PBX was the previous version of this system which needed the connection between two people to be made manually but PABX works automatically.
Difference between PABX, PBX and IP PBX?
The names are frequently used synonymously but have their differences.
PBX (Private Branch Exchange): It was the earliest system available. Communication takes place via conventional telephone lines. It is an older technology but still exists in some installations although its use is decreasing.
PABX (Private Automatic Branch Exchange): It is an advanced version of PBX that includes automatic call routing. Almost all modern systems known as “PBX” are actually PABX. The two terms are now synonymous.
IP-PABX (Internet Protocol PABX): This is the most recent development in PABXs. There is no copper line communication; the phone conversation travels over the IP network (LAN/internet). This is what we offer in our products. Smart Controls provides IP-PABX solutions for all Bahrain enterprises who wish to maintain a cutting edge. The IP-PBX connects your telephone lines to the PSTN network while also offering internal communications via TCP/IP networking protocols allowing for multimedia communication within one network.
How does a PABX work?
The PABX is placed between your private extensions and the outside world of your telephone network. Below is an explanation of the working of the system.
1.Intra-company calls: A call made from one individual’s extension to another is channeled by the PABX without any additional cost through your own private phone system.
2.Incoming calls: An incoming call that comes from outside lands in the PABX, which then directs the call to its intended extension according to predetermined rules.
3.Outgoing calls: You dial outside using the limited number of lines provided in your company, and not having to purchase extra phone lines for each employee saves you lots of money.
4.Advanced functionalities: Call waiting, call forwarding, voicemail, conferencing, IVR menu options, etc.
Various Types of PABX Phone System in Bahrain
In selecting the best PABX phone system for use in Bahrain, it will be useful to have some idea about the available types of PABX systems and which one works better according to your requirements.
1. Traditional Analogue PABX System
This is the original system which uses copper telephone wires to operate. Reliable and strong system, but high maintenance cost and limitations. Suitable for very small scale businesses having basic requirements and poor internet connection.
2. Digital PABX System
An improvement over the traditional system providing better quality and additional features but with the same physical infrastructure. The most widely used system in the year 2000s until now.
3. IP PABX System
It is the most recent innovation and the system that most PABX providers in Bahrain now recommend. Here is the IP PABX system and the reasons why it is considered the best.
- Requires no additional telephone wire installation
- Voice over Internet protocol (VOIP) calling with greatly reduced cost
- Perfect compatibility with other devices like computers and phones
- Extremely flexible to use and expand
- Suitable for remote working teams
4. Hosted / Cloud PBX
The PBX network exists in the cloud instead of on-site. This system is perfect for companies looking to minimize on-site hardware presence, flexibility, and fixed monthly expenses. Suitable for organizations having multiple offices spread around in Bahrain.
5. Hybrid PBX
It uses both regular phone lines and IP technology to allow gradual transition from old to new systems.
Modern PABX system features
A professional PABX installation service provided in Bahrain by a reliable company such as Smart Controls provides you with the following array of features that can radically improve communication in your organization:
- Auto-attendant/IVR: Allow callers to access a professionally recorded list of options (“Press 1 for Sales, Press 2 for Support…”) without hiring an operator to answer each call.
- Call forwarding and transfer: Instantly forward calls to any extension, to a mobile phone or to an external number.
- Email voicemail notifications: Send automatic emails to inform employees about missed calls.
- Conference calling: Host conferences between more than one caller without paying for additional services.
- Call recording: Record all calls for further use or analysis.
- Call analytics and reports: Track the volume of calls and other data.
- Hunt groups: Spread all incoming calls between members of a team.
- Direct Inward Dialling (DID): Assign DID to different departments or employees, eliminating the need for dedicated lines.
- Professional music on hold: Play background music when callers are waiting on hold.
- Smartphone integration: Let staff take advantage of all PABX features using their cell phones.
Why Does Your Business in Bahrain Require a PABX Solution?
1. Dramatic Reduction in Costs
Saving money will always be an important factor for all businesses, and in Bahrain, it is particularly crucial. The benefits of installing a modern PABX Bahrain solution for your business include:
- Free internal phone calls among employees
- Shared access to a limited number of outside lines by all employees
- IP PABX solutions operate via internet calls that cost much less than normal phone calls, especially when communicating internationally
2. Professional Look
First impression is everything when running a business. A professional voice-mail message, waiting music, and proper phone distribution make a very good first impression about the business and make it look like a real corporation, not even requiring many employees.
3. Easy Expansion as Your Business Expands
Businesses in Bahrain are rapidly growing nowadays. Modern PABX solution in Bahrain can easily keep up with that pace. Need to hire additional personnel? No problem, simply add more extensions!
4. Enhanced Internal Communication
As soon as you have immediate access to anyone within your team through the use of extensions — and even transferring of client calls without any hitch becomes seamless, then increased productivity follows.
5. Facilitation of Remote Working and Hybrid Work Environment
Following the pandemic experience, the future trend for business operations in Bahrain will involve flexible working conditions for workers. The IP PABX system Bahrain makes it possible for workers to operate from remote locations yet still receive calls made to them at their office extensions.
6. Seamless Integration With Existing Systems
The installation process for an efficient PABX system in Bahrain entails that the systems become integrated into your IT structure, making your telephony equipment an integral business tool.
7. Ensuring Business Continuity
Using advanced intelligent call routing technology, in case an extension line is unavailable for receiving calls, they get automatically redirected.
Which PABX Brands Are Recommended for Bahrain Companies?
Not all PABX systems are alike. At Smart Controls, we partner with some of the world’s finest brands to bring you the best PABX system options in Bahrain:
NEC (Univerge Series): NEC Corporation is a Japanese multinational communications company and one of the best in the world. The Univerge SV9000 series provides a state-of-the-art, open standard based IP communication system whereas SV8000 series provides TDM, IP, video, wired and wireless communication systems. The SL1000 is one of the best integrated systems for small to medium-sized companies which offers affordability, efficiency, and IP compatibility.
Syntel / EPABX Systems: Syntel NEOS systems provide high-quality systems with features of digital, ISDN, IP and analog EPABX which would be perfect for any Bahrain company seeking a reliable yet cost-effective communication solution.
Cisco: Enterprise level IP communication systems with full integration abilities.
Alcatel-Lucent: Known as one of the best companies providing solutions for enterprise communication.
We will determine which system will best suit your requirements after analysing various parameters such as company size, call volume, scalability, budget etc.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a PABX Vendor in Bahrain
When looking for a PABX vendor in Bahrain, here are some factors you should consider:
Experience and understanding: The PABX vendor must have experience in your local market, and they must be well-versed in the communication infrastructural and legal requirements in Bahrain.
One-stop shop service: You need one responsible partner who can offer all your services, starting from consultation and design to system installation, configuration, training, and post-installation support services.
Authorized vendors: Partner with PABX vendors that are authorized by the brands they offer so that you can enjoy full manufacturer warranties and expert assistance.
Structured cabling capabilities: Just like PABX systems, the network infrastructure plays a critical role in the successful implementation of your PBX systems.
Track record and success: Get recommendations from other business entities in Bahrain.
How Smart Controls Delivers PABX Solutions in Bahrain
Smart Controls Trading W.L.L is one of the leading ELV and security systems solution providers in Bahrain, located in Manama. We have years of experience designing and implementing PABX solutions for our clients throughout Bahrain in various industries ranging from small offices to heavy industries.
We can help you with:
- Free consultations to find out your requirements and specifications for the system
- Designing the PABX system that best fits your company’s size, future development, and budget
- Professional installation of the PABX system in Bahrain, using top-quality systems by NEC
- Installing the structured cabling and FOC in your system to provide an ideal network infrastructure
- Integrating the PABX system with your PA system, intercoms, and other communication/security systems
It is all about listening, designing and delivering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many extensions should I have?
As a rule of thumb, allocate one extension per employee, plus extensions for receptionists, meeting rooms, and other communal areas. Our expert from Smart Controls will determine how many extensions you need.
Do I get to keep my telephone numbers with my new PABX system?
Yes. You can retain your current Bahraini telephone numbers when installing a new PABX system because of number porting.
How much time will installation of a PABX system take in Bahrain?
A typical installation in an office environment will take between one to three days, depending on the size of the equipment.
Is IP PABX safe enough?
Yes. When installed professionally, an IP PABX system provides sufficient protection through various measures. At Smart Controls, our team always installs a PABX System Bahrain according to the highest security standards.
How easy would it be to add more extensions?
Quite easy, actually. One of the greatest benefits of IP PABX systems is that it is easy to scale up the system by adding extra extensions.
What happens when my internet connection fails?
Hybrid technologies may revert back to conventional phone lines. Our designs incorporate adequate redundancy according to your business needs.
Ready to Upgrade Your Business Communication?
Your business doesn’t need an upgrade only in telephone systems, but also in efficiency, professionalism and even in its future growth and expansion. With the right solution at hand, you can make sure that the upgrade will pay off very soon.We have all the required knowledge and skills in order to provide you with the best solution available.
More Services of Smart Control IT Bahrain:
CCTV & Video Surveillance
Access Control Systems
GPS Vehicle Tracking System