Are you starting a new business? If so, you probably have a number of big decisions on your plate right now. One decision you may not be considering is what type of phone system you'll use. Your phone system will likely be an important part of your business. While email and social media have become big communication channels, there are still plenty of times when a customer wants to get an actual person on the phone. You'll need a phone system that can meet your business's needs, but also fits within your budget. Here are three different types of the most popular phone systems.

Landline. This is probably the system that you're most familiar with. Similar to a home phone, a landline system runs through the telephone company's own copper wiring. You have a physical wire for each phone, so you'll need to make sure that your building has plenty of phone jacks in place. Also, if you have multiple employees, you'll need a PBX, which stands for private branch exchange.

A PBX is a device that routes calls to appropriate lines and extensions. They require an investment upfront to install and run, so if you're strapped for cash and only have a few employees, then a PBX may not be a good solution. However, if you have a lot of employees and many lines and extensions, then a PBX can give each employee their own extension so you have a more professional appearance.

Virtual phone systems. This is a good solution if you're a one-person business or if you only have a handful of employees. A virtual phone system applies a unique number and extensions to all your lines, but calls are actually forwarded to your cell phone. This helps you avoid the cost of a PBX or installing a bunch of desk phones. You can also choose optional features, such as a virtual receptionist and even voice mail and a virtual directory.

While a virtual phone system is affordable, it may not be the right solution if you're trying to create an ultra professional image. If your employees are often on the go, they could get business calls to their cell phones when they're away from the office.

VoIP. These systems are growing in popularity. They're much like landline systems, but with one big difference. Rather than using the telephone company's copper wiring, VoIP systems route calls over the internet. This is often much more affordable and requires less upfront equipment. Of course, the issue is that you are now dependent on the Internet for your phone service. If your internet ever goes down, you'll also lose telephone functionality.

With a VoIP, you'll also need to decide whether to host your service yourself or on a cloud service. If you self-host, you'll need to invest in a server and other equipment, but you'll be in control of your system. If you cloud-host, you'll save money on hosting equipment, but you'll be at the mercy of the cloud's stability.

For more information, contact a business phone system provider like Hi Country Wire And Telephone in your area. They can help you determine the best system for you.