While videoconferencing software was in use before the pandemic, the emergence of COVID-19 and the increase of remote work made virtual meetings the norm. Whether you are using Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Zoom or another videoconferencing software solution, more than half a billion participants take part in videoconferences every day.
Microsoft Teams has emerged as the product of choice for business. Ninety-three percent of Fortune 100 companies have added Teams to their technology stack
Combining Microsoft Teams with a cloud-based telephony network utilizing direct routing gives you a powerful combination to handle all of your video conferencing software, with VoIP to turbocharge your workplace.
The Benefits of Microsoft Teams
Whether used as a stand-alone solution or integrated with Office 365, Microsoft Teams is a collaboration and videoconferencing software solution that is quickly becoming a standard for business.
Here are just a few of the reasons:
- Real-time communications. Real-time chat gives team members the ability to instantly communicate rather than waiting for emails to get answered. Users can create channels to separate workgroups or projects so that only those needing to be included on the chat will see messages.
- Mobility. You can take part in a Microsoft Teams meeting regardless of where you are, what operating system you are using or what device you have. Supported platforms include Windows, macOS, iOS and Android. You just need an internet connection.
- Integration. One of the biggest benefits is seamless integration with other tools in the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. Employees can use Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint and other tools without having to juggle apps. Having everything accessible in one app – and one interface – increases productivity and collaboration.
- Collaboration. Microsoft Teams also fosters collaboration by letting staff members view, share and edit documents seamlessly. Multiple team members can work on projects simultaneously, with real-time visibility into changes.
- Scheduling. Microsoft Teams makes it possible to sync existing appointments automatically with other team members and to share documents and files within chat threads or in appointments. Unlike attachments, documents are dynamic and able to reflect changes before, during or after a Microsoft Teams meeting.
- Scalability. The number of simultaneous users for a Microsoft Teams meeting is incredible. As many as 10,000 attendees can connect to a video call at the same time, with notices sent to each participant with one click of a button.
If your company has a Microsoft 365 license, Teams is already built-in; videoconferencing software will not cost extra.
Microsoft Teams does have a module to handle voice calling for an additional per-user/per-month fee. Many businesses, however, choose to use direct routing with a reputable voice services provider with a robust telephony network and support to handle voice call integration.
The Benefits of a Voice over IP (VoIP)
VoIP has all but replaced traditional phone service in business. It eliminates the need for expensive on-premises PBX systems, long-distance fees, expensive hardware and maintenance. Today’s robust fiber network connections from companies like LOGIX have eliminated quality concerns.
Here are some of the other benefits of a hosted PBX for your business:
- Mobility. VoIP lets your employees work from anywhere while accessing the same advanced calling features that they have in the office. Whether they are working on a desk phone, desktop computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone, they have the same level of accessibility.
- Advanced calling features. You get access to advanced features that Microsoft Teams does not provide, such as call recording, reporting, and contact center features.
- Reliability. With VoIP delivered from a robust network architecture, you get reliable connections. Lagging response times, delays and poor quality are a thing of the past. You will get clear reception for voice calls that exceed traditional public switched telephone network connections.
- Disaster recovery. If there is a power outage, storm, flood or fire, it is not unusual to lose your phone connection. With VoIP, you can switch office phones to smartphones or other locations quickly and easily, eliminating downtime and ensuring that your data is secure.
- Security. Speaking of security, by using VoIP and the right voice services provider, your calls will be encrypted to prevent unauthorized access.
When you partner with LOGIX Fiber Networks for your Business Voice Cloud solution, you can also leverage the reliability of LOGIX Business Internet, which boasts 99.999% availability. A Texas-based network operations center monitors network performance and security 24/7 year-round, with a Texas-based support team on standby in case you need help.
Microsoft Teams and LOGIX Business Voice Cloud: A Powerful Combination
Microsoft Teams and LOGIX Business Voice Cloud make for a powerful combination that can help your business be more productive, collaborative, and agile in today’s business environment.
Contact LOGIX Fiber Networks to request a quote, or to learn more about how to integrate Microsoft Teams with Business Voice Cloud and hosted PBX.