The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a sudden shift of employees transitioning to remote work virtually overnight in the global workforce. This abrupt change highlighted the necessity for robust communication tools to bridge the physical gaps created by remote work. Microsoft Teams was introduced as a collaboration platform that swiftly became a staple for businesses worldwide during this transformative period.
Microsoft Teams, deeply integrated with Microsoft Office 365, became the communication lifeline for dispersed teams, offering a seamless environment for virtual meetings, document collaboration, and more. However, despite Microsoft teams phone system direct routing success in fostering collaboration, the adoption of Teams’ telephony features faced a slower trajectory. The platform’s telephony capabilities were perceived as modest, struggling to compete with the comprehensive features provided by traditional communication systems—features deeply ingrained in essential workflows and customer-facing tools.
What is Microsoft Teams direct routing?
Microsoft Teams Direct Routing facilitates seamless external calling within the Teams environment, serving as a bridge between the platform and the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). By default, Microsoft Teams lacks the capability to make and receive PSTN calls, necessitating the addition of a Microsoft Phone System license, typically bundled with select Microsoft 365 and Office 365 packages.
When it comes to enabling external calling in Teams, businesses can choose between Microsoft’s Calling Plans and leveraging a Direct Routing provider. The latter option involves incorporating SIP trunks customised for Microsoft Teams, creating a direct link between the platform and external telephony networks. This strategic integration enhances the platform’s capabilities, making it a versatile and comprehensive Microsoft VoIP solution.
Five benefits of Microsoft Teams Direct Routing for businesses
More cost-efficient
Cost is a critical consideration for any business. Microsoft Teams Direct Routing offers a cost-effective solution by enabling SIP trunk integration. By leveraging existing SIP trunks, businesses can avoid unnecessary expenses associated with adopting new telephony services. This integration streamlines communication costs, making it a financially sound choice for businesses looking to optimise their budget while enjoying the benefits of a robust communication platform.
Efficient call routing
Efficient call routing is essential for businesses to ensure that calls reach the right individuals or teams promptly. Microsoft Teams Direct Routing empowers businesses with advanced call routing capabilities. Whether it’s directing calls based on specific criteria, such as location or department, or implementing time-of-day routing for global teams, the platform offers a level of customisation that enhances communication efficiency. This feature ensures that important calls are promptly directed to the appropriate recipients, fostering a more responsive and agile business environment.
Increase in worldwide reach
As businesses embrace remote work, they seize the opportunity to broaden their talent acquisition horizons beyond traditional office boundaries. The shift to a global talent pool presents new opportunities for hiring, but it also introduces challenges in fostering connectivity among team members dispersed worldwide.
Despite the advantages of this global approach, Microsoft Teams’ calling plans often come with limitations in coverage. This can pose challenges, particularly in emerging markets, making it both challenging and costly to facilitate international calls. However, opting for a service provider equipped with a robust global network can be a strategic solution, facilitating seamless communication for internationally distributed teams.
More flexibility and control
Microsoft Teams Direct Routing provides businesses with unparalleled flexibility and control in their communication strategies. Unlike traditional phone systems, which may be rigid and expensive to adapt, Teams Direct Routing allows for integration with SIP trunks. This means that organisations can connect Teams to the PSTN through their preferred telephony provider. Whether you have an existing telephony infrastructure or want to choose a provider that best fits your needs, Teams Direct Routing offers the freedom to make communication truly flexible.
With multiple providers available, organisations can select the one that provides the best coverage, features, and pricing for their unique requirements. This diversity of options ensures that businesses can customise their communication infrastructure to suit their individual preferences and circumstances.
Seamless integration
Teams Direct Routing seamlessly integrates with the Microsoft Teams Phone System, creating a unified communication ecosystem. This integration allows users to make and receive calls directly within the Teams interface, eliminating the need for external applications or devices. Users can manage their calls, voicemail, and other communication tools without leaving the familiar Teams environment. This unified experience not only enhances user productivity but also promotes a cohesive and streamlined communication infrastructure within the organisation.
To sum up
Microsoft Teams Direct Routing stands as a transformative solution, addressing the communication challenges faced by businesses amid the rapid shift to remote work prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
As a cost-efficient alternative with advanced call routing capabilities, it empowers businesses to navigate the complexities of dispersed teams and global talent acquisition. The integration’s flexibility, coupled with seamless connectivity and control, ensures that businesses can tailor their communication infrastructure to meet unique needs.
In embracing Teams Direct Routing, businesses not only optimise their budget but also foster a responsive and cohesive business environment, reinforcing the platform’s position as a comprehensive Microsoft VoIP solution.
Wavetel Business integrates seamlessly with Microsoft Teams Direct Routing, offering businesses cost-effective solutions and reliable connectivity for enhanced collaboration.