# of Trunk lines needed per user

[jbrotschul]

I am bringing up new telephone service for an office of 32 users.

I'm not sure what good practice is regarding the number of lines they will need. Does anyone have any suggestions?

I will need DID trunks so they can have direct extensions, and I will also need loop start lines in a hunt group for inbound calls made to the main number and for outbound calling.

Thanks,
Jeff

 

[merlinman]

Jeff,

I do not know what part of the country you are in, but a PRI is a GREAT solution if it can be had at a low enough cost.

A lot of vendors are offering PRI at a reduced rate, with lot's of Long Distance and D-I-D as well.

Ask your vendors if they have any deals on PRI.

 

[tdaugirdas]

I would start with 8-10 loop start lines in a circular hunt group. So much depends on inbound/outbound volume - and if you don't know - it's tough to guess. You can always add additional lines if needed. You also need to do a little negotiating. As Merlinman mentioned there are a number of alternatives with digital providers - and you need to let the local Telco know that you are shopping around and want a good deal. Most providers sell DID in bundles only (whether you need all the numbers or not) - so you need to check with the provider to see how many (bundles)you will need.

Tom Daugirdas,
President
STCG, Inc.
stcg.com

 

[orypecos]

As mentioned "So much depends on inbound/outbound volume - and if you don't know - it's tough to guess." So the first step is, what is the business use of the lines? Is everyone going to be on a outside line at the same time, or is it going to be more of a occasional use.