Microsoft Teams has transformed communication, collaboration, and productivity for today’s businesses on an incredible scale. It offers companies almost everything they need to connect and synchronize their teams, from video and audio meetings, to chat, and even AI tools.
The only thing missing is a built-in external calling feature. If you want Microsoft Teams to become the heart of your voice strategy, then you need to connect a telecom solution. Previously, this meant purchasing a Microsoft Phone plan. Then, Microsoft introduced Direct Routing, to enable users to connect their own provider to the ecosystem.
However, Direct Routing has its challenges, from a complex setup, to the need for an in-depth knowledge of PowerShell. Fortunately, Operator Connect bypasses these issues, allowing companies to leverage their preferred voice provider in Teams, and manage everything through the Teams admin interface. The only issue? With so many Operators to choose from, it can be difficult to know which provider is best for your business.
What to Look for in an Operator Connect Provider
Operator Connect offers companies a streamlined and intuitive solution for voice-enabling Microsoft Teams. It’s ideal for smaller organizations with basic needs, who want access to streamlined management and control within the Microsoft Teams application.
However, unlike Direct Routing, Operator Connect requires a contract between Microsoft and an Operator, which used to mean there weren’t as many providers to choose from. Now, however, numerous companies have joined Microsoft’s program, many of which offering similar capabilities, features, and approaches to customer support.
So, how do you make the right choice? Here’s what you should be looking for.
1. Seamless Integration with Microsoft Teams
As standard, Operator Connect offers a more intuitive integration experience with Microsoft Teams than Direct Routing, allowing users to configure settings and assign numbers within the Teams Admin Center, rather than using PowerShell. However, not all vendors offer the same level of integration.
If you’re looking for a user-friendly experience, it’s crucial to select a provider that can deliver a full digital journey for your team through the Admin Center, without the need for external solutions. Prioritize operators that give you direct connectivity to Microsoft, with the ability to provision numbers instantly through an intuitive portal.
Ideally, the best provider should make it easy to manage everything in one place, from calling and conferencing through Operator Connect, to mobile connectivity.
2. Professional Operator Services
Leading providers of Operator Connect for Microsoft Teams go beyond simply giving companies access to calling capabilities. They provide access to a host of flexible services, and end-to-end support, to ensure business leaders can optimize workflows and enhance productivity.
For instance, CallTower’s Operator Connect services allow partners to connect companies instantly with a range of voice carriers and internet peering partners. Plus, they ensure companies can easily personalize their call routing system, choose how to delegate numbers to specific employees, and ensure conversations are handled efficiently.
Look for a provider with deep experience optimizing the performance of Microsoft Teams. They should be able to assist with the setup and configuration of your system, deliver training and support, and help you expand your ecosystem with new add-ons and features when necessary.
3. Advanced Functionality and Integrations
Aside from bringing external voice capabilities into your Teams ecosystem, Operator Connect providers can also build on the functionality of your communications platform. They can offer access to a range of additional, and often crucial features that improve business performance.
