ShoreTel Review

ShoreTel has different pricing methods depending on the type of hosting you choose. The on-site system has a one-time charge and a few minor ones, while the cloud-based option is charged through recurring monthly fees. It’s important to note that prices can differ since the quotes are not supplied by the company, but rather by the authorized resellers.

For a small business, with the on-site hosting option, we were offered to pay a one-time $700 fee per user, and between $1000 and $1500 for individual call center licenses. Additionally, you’ll be charged for the monthly trunking fee, as well as calling minutes. You’ll also need to purchase phones, which can be bought from ShoreTel, or separately. For the same fictive small business, the cloud-hosted system would cost between $35 and $41 monthly for each individual user. Additional call center services are $130 per month.

ShoreTel comes with two hosting options – the cloud-hosted system, and the traditional on-site option. This can be a big factor in deciding on your future phone system since both hosting options have different benefits. The company also prides itself in having an almost impeccable uptown record, with its systems being down only a few minutes each year.

The on-site system is, at its name suggests, located in majority somewhere on the premises of your business. The system has two major components – the main server and the voice-switch equipment. The latter handles all calls and makes sure all features are available at any time. Aside from these two components, the on-site system also requires you to prioritize voice calling on your network, and insure you have SIP trunks in order to be able to have a dial tone. With this hosting option, aside from needing professionals to install your system, you’ll have to handle maintenance and any possible upgrades you might want in the future by yourself.

The cloud-hosted system has the same features as the on-premises option, but it’s considerably less complicated to install and use, so it doesn’t require professional installation. This fact alone can save you hundreds of dollars, and valuable time you could be using your system. To use your system, all you’ll need are IP phones and a high-speed connection with a prioritized voice traffic.

Phone number: +1 (888) 322-3822

Website: www.shoretel.com

Since ShoreTel works mostly through local resellers, we contacted both in order to get a clearer picture of how they treat their customers. When we initially called ShoreTel we posed as a small business owner that wishes to purchase a new phone system. We asked several questions regarding pricing, features and plans, and the customer representative was very informative with his answers. He then referred us to our local reseller for more detailed information and a price quote. Our contact with the reseller was also pleasant and we felt we had enough information to make a decision on our new phone system.

If you find yourself looking for input into how to deal with certain aspects of your new system, ShoreTel’s website has many useful tutorials, how-to videos and a FAQ section that can help. If you want to contact customer support, you can do so through phone, email or live chat.