Which solution did you decide on and why?
Following Swisscom's announcement of the ISDN shutdown, we analyzed various solutions and ultimately decided on the 3CX system from peoplefone.
Since we already had our own servers, we used SIP trunks from peoplefone and therefore hosted the solution ourselves.
What is the biggest difference between the old and the new solution?
The main difference is that the old solution was hardware-based, now it's software-based. Making phone calls still works the same as it did years ago, but the technology behind it has changed.
You are more flexible; you can make calls\ using your smartphone or computer. We appreciate this advantage.
Why did you choose peoplefone or Novalink?
Novalink has been our IT service provider for quite some time. We have already implemented other projects with Novalink - including the installation of the old telephone solution.
Novalink knows us and in turn suggested peoplefone to us because the two companies maintain a partnership. I had also heard good things about peoplefone before.
How did you experience the transition from the old to the new system?
Actually, smoothly. The project went easier than expected. If you go back structurally, the conversion is not a problem.
We set up all customers in advance, and then we only had to port the numbers on day X. That worked perfectly.
Were there any challenges?
No, not really. The software, i.e., 3CX, is an open-source solution. It is very well documented, and there is a huge community that can help if you have any questions. This way, you quickly achieve a relatively deep level of knowledge.
In addition, Novalink and peoplefone took excellent care of us during the changeover. I never felt like just a customer; I was always treated as an equal partner. Together, we found a good solution.
How is the collaboration with Novalink and peoplefone today?
Everything goes directly through peoplefone for us. This is certainly also due to the fact that we host the solution ourselves. If we have a question about phone numbers, peoplefone is the right contact for us.
Novalink accompanied us until the solution went live, sometimes showing us how to configure the system and providing training on how to set up an extension.
Since then, however, the company has not been very involved.
From an interview with Mr. Stefan Seger, Head of IT / System Engineer at Zaunteam Franchise AG
