Microsoft Teams Phone System, which provides calling capabilities within the Teams app, consists of several components, each with its own associated costs. Here are the typical line item costs you may encounter:
- Microsoft 365 or Office 365 License: To use Microsoft Teams Phone System, you’ll need a Microsoft 365 or Office 365 subscription, which comes with various plans (e.g., Microsoft 365 Business Basic, Business Standard, or Enterprise plans). The cost of this license can vary depending on the specific plan and whether it includes other features beyond Teams.
- Phone System License: In addition to a Microsoft 365/Office 365 license, you’ll typically need a Phone System license. This license provides you with the necessary infrastructure for calling features within Teams. The cost may vary depending on your plan and whether it’s bundled with other services.
- Calling Plan or Direct Routing: There are two main options for connecting to the public phone network:
- Calling Plan: Microsoft offers Calling Plans that include domestic and international calling minutes for a per-user monthly fee. The cost can vary based on the number of users and the type of calling plan (e.g., domestic, domestic and international).
- Direct Routing: Alternatively, you can use Direct Routing, which involves working with a telecommunications provider to connect Teams Phone System to the public phone network. Costs for Direct Routing depend on your provider and the specific calling features you require.
- Phone Devices: If you require physical phones for your organization, you’ll need to purchase compatible Teams-certified hardware. These costs can vary significantly based on the type and quantity of phones you need.
- Audio Conferencing: If you need audio conferencing capabilities, you may need to purchase an Audio Conferencing license. This allows participants to join Teams meetings via telephone. This is often an additional cost on top of your Microsoft 365/Office 365 license.
- Calling Plan Add-Ons: Depending on your organization’s needs, you may need to purchase add-ons like additional calling minutes, toll-free numbers, or international calling packages, which can have varying costs.
- Consulting or Implementation Services: If you require assistance with setting up and configuring Teams Phone System, you may need to budget for consulting or implementation services, which can be a one-time or ongoing cost.
It’s important to note that Microsoft’s pricing structures and offerings can change over time, so it’s advisable to check with Microsoft or a certified Microsoft partner for the most up-to-date pricing information tailored to your organization’s specific requirements. Additionally, the cost of Microsoft Teams Phone System can vary significantly depending on the size and needs of your organization, so it’s crucial to carefully evaluate your options to determine the most cost-effective solution.