Any thoughts, recommendations, warnings, or advice on phone systems or providers? Looking to install system that can handle min 8 lines and 20 phones. Not opposed to VOIP but concerned about what happens if internet is out. Have been with ATT for ten years and even though expensive...they are reliable. Also, currently have DSL but would like to look at other options if faster. I have been looking for "Techno for Dummies" but can't find it. looking to balance performance with affordability ie...don't need the latest greatest thing if markedly more expensive than last year's greatest thing. Would be nice if the phones had a record feature built in but not dealbreaker.

VOIP requires a better network infrastructure. And DSL and entry Cable are not going to suffice for the service. You have to have router and switch hardware that supports Quality of Service (QoS) as well as that same commercial level service at the internet provider.

There are countless good vop vendors out there from the cheap end (like Mitel or RCA) up to the expensive (like Cisco) and everything in-between.

On the traditional front RCA and AT&T both make similar office systems like this:
RCA 8-line Business Phones/ (http://www.rca4business.com/products-page/8-line-phones/) We've used the 4 line systems in smaller offices and they work nicely. You just have to pay attention to which features you want each person to have when you buy it (like voicemail) and if you want an Auto-Attendant. We're mostly used the RCA ones, but if you're going to 8-lines, you should discuss the router option with them as well...even integrate the cordless phones. It's MUCH cheaper than VOIP. All you get when you get VOIP is the trasnfer of the cost from a carrier to an ISP (usually with some savings). But the investment can often make the ROI take a long time.

If you can't tell, i'm in IT so if you ever want to talk about it a little more, just send me a message and i'd be happy to help you some.

My firm (15-20 people) is relocating our office space and we are looking into RingCentral Cloud Phone System, Virtual PBX, Toll Free 800 Number (http://www.ringcentral.com/) to replace our current antiquated NEC system.

Looks like a cool set up. Not sure about the monthly fee though. It is anywhere from 25 to 50 per user. A user is defined as per device so could be $500 to $1000 per month just in monthly licensing fee. We don't use voice mail and have an answering service at night so may be more system than we need. Our phones are answered by live person 24/7.