As the way organizations do business continues to change, so too do their communication needs. With the rise of remote and hybrid work environments, many companies are turning to Microsoft Teams as their go-to collaboration platform. It’s already the hub for meetings, team chats, file sharing, and document collaboration. However, one critical functionality that many businesses may overlook is Microsoft Teams Calling—an integrated voice solution that can take your Microsoft 365 strategy to the next level.
Why Add Microsoft Teams Calling to Your M365 Approach?
1. Simpler telecoms with a modern, cloud-based environment
With Teams Calling, businesses can consolidate all communication features—voice, chat, video, and more—into one platform. This integration is supported end-to-end by cloud-based Operator Connect, which facilitates a seamless migration process from deployment and capacity management to ongoing support, analytics, and integration.
2. Unified Communications
Each user receives one phone number, streamlining your communication infrastructure. Additionally, Dynamic 911 ensures users are always connected to emergency services, regardless of their location. Businesses can also take advantage of call recording features, enabling better compliance and training, and utilize fax solutions like eFax and traditional fax for a flexible communication strategy that accommodates legacy systems.
3. SMS Integration
SMS integration is another key benefit, offering full SMS functionality including picture messaging and automation. Whether your teams need to send texts, MMS, or make calls, all of this can be managed directly within the Teams interface, ensuring that employees have the mobility and flexibility to communicate seamlessly anytime, anywhere, and from any device.
4. Analog Device Support
Calling for Microsoft Teams bridges the digital divide by supporting traditional fax solutions, analog paging systems, and more. With ATA devices, businesses can continue using their legacy communication tools while seamlessly integrating them with modern Teams functionality. This adaptability ensures that companies don’t need to discard existing hardware, making the migration process even more cost-effective and efficient.
5. Teams Voice Administration
The Teams Voice Administration feature provides an exclusive managed service that helps organizations navigate complex telecom needs. This includes everything from license assignment to the setup of first-party Teams-certified devices. Teams administrators can easily configure call routing, including creating auto attendants, hunt groups, and custom call flow schedules. Whether for a small team or a large enterprise, the flexibility to set up and manage your Teams Calling environment ensures that communication flows smoothly, no matter the size of your organization.
Important Considerations for Integrating Teams Calling
While the benefits of Teams Calling are significant, businesses need to consider a few factors to ensure a smooth transition and successful implementation:
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Licensing: Microsoft offers various licensing options for Teams Calling, including Calling Plans, Direct Routing, and Operator Connect. Evaluate these options based on your organization’s size, budget, and communication requirements. Consulting with a Microsoft partner or provider can help you determine the best solution for your needs.
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Network Infrastructure: Teams Calling relies on a strong and reliable network connection. Before integrating calling into Teams, assess your network’s bandwidth and performance to ensure high-quality voice calls. Consider implementing Quality of Service (QoS) protocols to prioritize voice traffic and maintain call clarity.
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User Training: While Microsoft Teams is user-friendly, there may be a learning curve for employees transitioning from traditional phone systems to cloud-based calling. Providing training on the new features, such as call forwarding, voicemail, and integration with other Office apps, will ensure your team fully adopts the solution.
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Support and Maintenance: As with any technology, having reliable support is crucial. Whether you’re using Microsoft’s Calling Plan or working with a third-party vendor through Direct Routing, ensure that you have a support system in place for troubleshooting, upgrades, and ongoing maintenance.
Conclusion
Integrating Microsoft Teams Calling into your Microsoft 365 strategy is a smart and forward-thinking move for any organization looking to streamline communication, reduce costs, and enhance collaboration. By consolidating all forms of communication into a single platform, Teams enables better coordination and productivity while simplifying management. If you’re looking for a partner to guide you through this process, All Covered can help! Not sure if you’re using your M365 investment to its full potential? Take our quiz to find areas where you may be able to improve productivity or security.
