​Teams or not to Teams?

One of the questions we get most asked by our clients is "Can Microsoft Teams replace my existing telephony system?" Until recently, the answer to this would have been "no." However, recently, Microsoft has brought some new features to Teams that have turned "no" into a resounding "yes."

1. Visual Voicemail
Users that have Voice over IP (VOIP) enabled will now see the Calls App in the App bar in the Desktop and Web Clients. Additionally, they also receive visual voicemail.

2. Direct Routing
Direct Routing allows a direct connection between a supported SBC and the Microsoft Cloud. With Direct Routing, you can connect your SBC to almost any telephony trunk or interconnect with third-party Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) equipment.

3. Microsoft Teams Rooms
Microsoft Teams now provide a complete teams meeting room experience. This brings HD video and audio into your meeting room using a simple touch screen tablet. Microsoft Teams rooms are fully interoperable with Teams desktop applications and PSTN calling.

With these new features, we think that Microsoft Teams can genuinely replace your legacy telephone system. Stay tuned for a blog article showing you how to configure teams for voice traffic over the next few days.