Hi everyone,
Do any of you know about phone systems that may or may not include direct dials, vm, extensions, and the actual hardware required to make it all function? Currently BikePGH only has a single direct line w/o extensions and we are trying to figure out the simplest, most cost effective way to create a a better system. Thanks for your insight on this.
I only know about this stuff tangentially, but there are open source PBX systems out there (like Asterisk). I've not set one up myself, but I have heard good things about it. There will probably be cost overhead in procuring equipment, however.
We use Asterisk for a conference bridge but I do know that it is supposed to be a very capable IP phone system, as well. Asterisk runs on a standard server, I may be able to find some system setup diagrams if interested.
I've dabbled with Asterisk before, and it is pretty easy, assuming you have played with a *nix system before, and don't mind some text-based fiddling.
I've never used their support, or known anyone who has, but I know it exists. It's a couple hundred bucks for a year of support, If I recall, but that may be cheaper than an off-the-shelf solution that still requires payment for service/support
I'd be happy to stop by and chat about it if you guys want…
Will Google Voice meet your needs?
https://www.google.com/voice/?setup=1#setup/
Do all the chairs have web access?
ghetto, but what about 4 or 5 direct lines? or skype business? asterisk is open source, but you would still have to invest in a server and voip handsets.
Friend of my has asterik at home. I've helped him to set it up 4 years ago. I don't remember from the top of my head but can always ask him what equipment and configuration he has.
