Asterisk has a number of core strengths which set it apart from other telephone systems.

Serious Cost Reduction

An Asterisk System can typically be installed for about half the cost of a traditional system. For large scale systems the saving can be even greater.  As an example, prices start from $7999 for a fully installed system with 10 handsets and 12 months support.  Adding additional handsets can be done for as little as $230 with no per handset license fees or mandatory maintenance contracts.

Control

Asterisk Allows a business to take control of their phone calls.  Once a call is received by Asterisk,

virtually anything can be done. Asterisk provides a level of granular control normally only associated

with the most expensive of systems.

Integration

Asterisk can be integrated into your existing business systems such as Microsoft Outlook, CRM and ERP systems. Integration is probably Asterisk's greatest strength.  Being able to integrate your business systems directly with your phone system changes how you view and use your phone system.  See the page on Integrating Asterisk for a discussion on how Asterisk can be integrated with business systems.

VoIP

Asterisk was built to handle VoIP calls.  Significant savings can be had by using Asterisk to send all inter-office calls across the internet as well as reducing external call costs by using Mobile Telephone Gateways and accessing flat rate national call costs. It is not uncommon for the savings in call costs to pay for the acquisition of an Asterisk Phone System.

No Lock-In to Proprietary Systems

Obtain support, accessories and upgrades from a variety of sources.  Their are dozens of third party applications which can further extend the functionality of Asterisk and a surprising number of them are free. 

Telephone handsets are standards based (SIP) and can be re-used on other SIP based PABXs.

Reduced Cabling Costs

VoIP based telephone calls are not just for making calls over the internet. Asterisk can also use VoIP for calls within the office using your existing LAN lines.  When wiring a new office, this can lead to considerable savings as only one set of cables need to be laid.

See the Asterisk Features and Asterisk Benefits pages for more information.