Voice over IP technology made it possible for new telephone exchanges to be software-based.
Softphone (Soft Phones)
With calls handled through the computer, a new interface was born. The “softphone” makes it possible to look at a monitor and see all kinds of useful information through an application.
software. A pair of headphones with a built-in microphone replaces the handheld phone with a 
special software to display the keyboard and other features.
For example, employee names associated with each extension make it easy to switch calls between offices. Activity statuses show which lines are in use. Conference calls are easy to set up.
In addition, softphones are available for smartphones, which made the PBX officially mobile.
IVR Menu
Callers can route themselves by choosing a menu option, for example, “Press 1 to make an appointment” or allow direct entry to a extension.
Portable
Your Smart phone is capable of send and receive company calls from within your office, no matter where you are in the world. This allows employees to save costs on calls and take mobile phones on business trips or to their homes, as long as there is an Internet connection.
Voicemail
This doesn't sound like a new feature, but it's not just a simple voicemail, it's Messages are sent via email in .wav format to your account.
Scheduled Routing
Menu options change based on preset hours. For example, when calling outside of business hours. “We are currently closed. To leave a message…”
Call recording
“This call may be monitored or recorded for quality control purposes.” Call recording is often used for training or employee performance monitoring.
Waiting list
Music or information is played for the caller while an agent is available. It is incredibly useful for the company to know the order and number of calls on hold.
Call control through reports
Storing information on incoming and outgoing calls, generating reports and even detailed graphics.
Fourth Era: Unified Communications
While we said there were only three eras of PBX, technically, there are four.
With the introduction of Internet-based services, PBX became a small ingredient in a revolutionary communication cake.
The entire package of new features is referred to as “unified communications.” For this reason, PBXs are often not advertised as a standalone service, as they are bundled with a variety of other features.
With increased Internet access, faster speeds, and other new technologies, unified communications has expanded its role considerably.
Unified Communications Features
Instant Messaging
User interfaces allow employees to communicate via instant messaging quickly and easily, without the need for external applications.
Faxing
The ability to send and receive faxes through the use of the computer interface is a valuable upgrade. Received faxes arrive via email in .pdf format to your account.
Videoconferencing
For those who need some face time, it allows for video conference calls.
Presence
It simply means knowing how to find someone and knowing when that person is available.
If you have been considering hiring a Corporate Telephone System or upgrading your current system, we hope we have helped you understand the basics you need to know in order to begin researching and reach the decision that best suits your needs.
The images shown refer to the 3CX software, The hybrid telephone exchange that we offer you to try, so that you can learn about the different benefits that it can bring to your company. Throughout the following posts we will expand on 3CX.
In SimpleTECHWe are a company made up of professionals in the areas of Telecommunications, Electronics and Software. We specialize in helping companies and institutions of all sizes communicate effectively and efficiently based on the industry best practices and technologies. That's why we recommend the 3CX Hybrid IP Phone System for medium and large companies looking to obtain the highest return on their investment through a scalable, flexible and efficient tool. We advise and implement projects throughout Latin America. We are the only Spanish-speaking 3CX Platinum and Support Partner in Latin America.
By: The team of SimpleTECH©
Sources:
http://bebusinessed.com/history/history-of-pbx/
https://www.3cx.es/
