Is Teams Phone Any Good?

With many companies already using Microsoft 365, integrating a phone system with existing tools makes sense, and Teams Phone—Microsoft’s VoIP solution—has emerged as a strong contender.

But is Teams Phone any good for SMEs? In this blog, we'll explore the benefits, challenges, and key features of Teams Phone, and whether it’s the right choice for your business.

What is Teams Phone?

Teams Phone is Microsoft’s cloud-based phone system that allows users to make and receive VoIP calls directly within the Microsoft Teams platform. This system is designed to replace traditional phone systems and provide businesses with a fully integrated communication solution. With Teams Phone, your employees can make Microsoft Teams Calls from their computers, smartphones, or tablets, ensuring they stay connected, regardless of their location.

For SMEs, this offers an exciting opportunity to modernize communication while leveraging the familiar Microsoft Teams interface.

Teams Phone Key Features

Before we dive into whether Teams Phone is good for your business, let’s take a look at its core features:

• VoIP Calls: Make and receive high-quality voice calls via the internet, eliminating the need for traditional phone lines.
• Video Calls: Seamlessly switch between voice and video calls within the Microsoft Teams app.
  
• Call Routing & Forwarding: Route calls to any device, ensuring employees are always reachable.
• Voicemail: Teams Phone offers a built-in voicemail service with transcription capabilities.
• Call Queues & Auto Attendants: Manage incoming calls efficiently with automatic routing, queuing, and professional greetings.
• Integration with Microsoft 365: Teams Phone is fully integrated with other Microsoft tools, allowing for easy access to contacts, scheduling, and file sharing during calls.

Benefits of Teams Phone for SMEs

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s explore why Teams Phone could be a good fit for your business:

1. Cost-Effective VoIP for SMEs

One of the biggest advantages of Teams Phone is that it offers an affordable, scalable VoIP for SMEs. With Teams Phone, you eliminate the need for costly hardware like traditional desk phones and PBX systems. Instead, all calls are made through the cloud, reducing operational costs. Since many SMEs already use Microsoft 365, adding Teams Phone can be a cost-effective way to consolidate communication tools within one platform.

Additionally, Teams Phone’s flexible pricing models allow you to scale your communication needs as your business grows, without the need for expensive upgrades or additional lines.

2. Full M365 Integration

For businesses already using Microsoft 365, Teams Phone integrates with the tools your team uses every day, such as Outlook, SharePoint, and OneDrive. This means you can easily access contacts, set up meetings, and share files during calls, all within the same app.

Microsoft Teams Calls can be scheduled, initiated, and managed from the familiar Teams interface, which reduces the learning curve and boosts productivity. The ability to have all communication—emails, video conferencing, and calls—centralised in one place also streamlines workflow and collaboration.

3. Remote Work Friendly

Teams Phone provides SMEs with a flexible phone system that works anywhere. Employees can make and receive calls on their laptops, tablets, or smartphones, as long as they have an internet connection.

With features like call forwarding, voicemail transcription, and seamless device switching, employees can remain connected regardless of their physical location, making it a great choice for distributed teams or businesses with a mobile workforce.

4. Advanced Features

For businesses that need advanced call management, Teams Phone provides features like auto-attendants, call queues, and voicemail transcription, ensuring that no call goes unanswered. These features are ideal for SMEs that need to maintain a professional phone presence but don’t have the resources for a large, dedicated call center.

These tools allow you to manage customer queries, handle incoming traffic efficiently, and ensure a smooth customer experience, all within a single interface.

Challenges for SMEs with Teams Phone

1. Internet Dependence

Since Teams Phone relies on a strong internet connection, any issues with your business internet can affect call quality. For SMEs in areas with unreliable internet, this could be a concern. However, with the right business broadband and VoIP optimisation, many of these challenges can be mitigated.

2. Learning Curve

While Microsoft Teams is user-friendly for those already familiar with the Microsoft ecosystem, employees who aren’t tech-savvy may face a slight learning curve. Training may be necessary to get the most out of the system’s advanced features.

3. Limited Hardware Compatibility

While Teams Phone supports softphones (calls made through apps on computers or smartphones), it has limited compatibility with traditional desk phones. If your business still prefers physical phone hardware, this may require additional adjustments or investments in compatible devices.

So Is Teams Phone Right For Your Business?

eams Phone offers a powerful, cost-effective, and integrated SME phone system for businesses that are already using or planning to adopt Microsoft 365. With its comprehensive features, seamless integration with other Microsoft apps, and ability to support remote work, it’s a strong contender for SMEs looking to modernise their communication systems.

If you’re considering adopting Teams Phone or have questions about its integration with your current infrastructure, our local IT support for small businesses team can help guide you through the process. Contact us today to find out how Teams Phone can elevate your business communications.