Teams Calling w/ Direct Routing: 12-Wk Implementation

Why Microsoft Teams?

Microsoft Teams, a rapidly growing collaborative platform for the Modern Workplace, extends beyond mere meeting hosting and chat. It offers robust voice capabilities, thanks to a key technology called Direct Routing. Reasons for transitioning to Teams include Modernization, Reduced Reliance, Business Continuity, Security and Cost Efficiency. Traditional PSTN and on-prem telephony systems are becoming less available, prompting organizations to seek modern alternatives like Teams. Businesses are also moving away from voice-only solutions and relying less on PSTN. Teams provides enhanced continuity and security for all business applications, including voice communication. Centralized PSTN services also allow organizations to allocate resources more effectively, focusing on network investments.

Who We Are

Continuant, with over 27 years of experience in legacy voice, is a global systems integrator and managed services provider. Continuant supports over 100 members of the Fortune 500 and clients worldwide. Accolades include the 2020 Microsoft Partner of the Year Award for Teams Calling & Meetings and the 2023 Partner of the Year Award for Converged Communications. As experts in this field, Continuant is well positioned to guide businesses to Microsoft Teams.

What is Direct Routing in Microsoft Teams? With Direct Routing, businesses can seamlessly connect Teams to various voice service providers.

This integration brings several benefits:

1. Cost Savings: Direct Routing enables cheaper call rates, making communication budget friendly.
2. Flexibility: Users aren’t tied to specific PSTN providers; they can choose their own.
3. Contract Freedom: Even if locked into existing contracts, Teams can be used without violating agreements already in place.
4. Integration: Companies can seamlessly integrate their existing PBX systems and analog devices with Teams' phone system features.

In summary, Direct Routing empowers organizations to create a unified communications platform while enjoying cost savings and flexibility.

How Does Direct Routing Work?

Direct Routing seamlessly connects Microsoft Teams to the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) using two essential components: a Session Border Controller and SIP Trunks. The setup process is remarkably straightforward and can be integrated into a company's existing phone system and analog device.

Key Benefits of Direct Routing include:

1. Smooth Transition: It allows for a phased migration to Teams, ensuring that calls between fully migrated and non-migrated users remain uninterrupted.
2. Efficiency: With the assistance of an experienced partner like Continuant, the process is streamlined and hassle-free.
3. Number Porting: If a business decides to change carriers, Continuant will assist with the porting of existing numbers or ordering new ones.
4. Deployment: Once everything is cleared with the provider, Continuant will deploy SIP trunks and new SBCs.

In summary, Direct Routing simplifies the transition to Teams while ensuring a seamless communication experience for the organization.

Who Should Consider Teams with Direct Routing?

1. Strong Teams Usage: If a business is already using Microsoft Teams for internal communications, they can seamlessly extend it to handle external communication as well. This eliminates the need for an additional PBX system and its associated costs.
2. Limited IT Resources: IT Teams have a full plat managing various tasks. By leveraging external support, they can focus on other priorities. Experienced providers and Microsoft partners can efficiently manage the solution, ensuring users maximize the benefits of Teams.
3. Desire for Flexibility: If an organization frequently makes outbound calls (especially internationally), Direct Routing is an excellent choice. It provides the flexibility a carrier can offer.

In summary, Direct Routing streamlines the transition to Teams while enhancing communication efficiency.

Is your Organization Ready for Next Steps? Want to Learn More? Schedule a free 30-minute technology assessment today and find out what the transition to Microsoft Teams could look like for your organization!