We all want the ease of single-sign-on access, which is why many people are turning their Teams platform into a comprehensive communication solution with Direct Routing as a Service (DRaaS).
Finding the right DRaaS provider can be a challenge, especially since the market is growing daily. That’s why we’ve written this blog.
Below, you’ll find a list of factors that will help you find the provider you need in half the time. If that sounds good to you, keep reading.
Key Factors to Consider When Evaluating DRaaS Providers
When starting your research, you should keep this list in mind. Feel free to bookmark it for future reference!
Cost
Before you get too attached to a specific provider, be sure you understand what you’ll be paying for their services, including setup fees and ongoing charges. You can do this by:
- Reviewing the pricing information provided on their website
- Asking for a quote online or via a phone call
- Scheduling a consultation
To make budgeting easier, look for providers with transparent pricing and predictable monthly payments. Notice we didn’t say, “Look for the cheapest one.” Why? Because cheaper doesn’t always mean better.
Expertise & Support
No one wants to partner with someone who promises the world but delivers mediocrity. You need a DRaaS provider that’s an expert in both telephony and Teams. We’d recommend researching both the provider and their team members. Look for certifications, industry awards, and case studies highlighting their capabilities. You can also contact current clients if you’d like.
It’s also vital that your DRaaS provider offers human-first support that’s both knowledgeable and available. If you run into a problem, they should be able to solve it quickly and easily.
Scalability & Flexibility
The only constant is change—especially in the business world. That’s why you need a DRaaS provider whose solutions can accommodate these changes. Features like adjustable service plans, on-demand support, and flexible contract terms are good indicators of an adaptable provider.
You can even ask the provider about it yourself! Some example questions include:
- How do you handle your customers’ scalability challenges?
- Do you charge a fee for changes?
- Can a customer expect a quick turnaround after a change request?
Security & Compliance
In a world where 2,200 cyberattacks happen daily, protecting your data is more important than ever. So be sure your DRaaS provider has strong security measures and adheres to all the appropriate regulations – especially if you operate globally.
During your research, keep an eye out for the following:
- Encryption protocols
- Data backup procedures
- Compliance certifications
If it’s hard to find, request compliance documentation! A DRaaS provider should have records of GDPR and HIPAA compliance and a response plan for handling potential breaches.
Reliability & Uptime
Downtime is the enemy of productivity, and a good DRaaS provider knows that. Make sure that the one you choose has a proven track record of reliable performance in various situations.
You should also check to see if they offer Service Level Agreements (SLAs). These are legal documents that guarantee customers a certain level of availability and uptime (sometimes as high as 99.999 percent). Having an SLA is a great way to preserve your peace of mind.
Disaster Recovery & Business Continuity
No matter how hard you plan, unexpected circumstances can interfere with your business. You need a provider that can get you back on track ASAP. Ones with solid disaster recovery and business continuity plans can help your telephony services stay operational when you need them the most.
If there’s no information on their website, reach out to the provider themselves and ask about their:
- Data replication practices
- Backup frequency
- RTOs (Recovery time objectives) and RPOs (Recovery point objectives)
- Failover processes
Infrastructure Reach
Not every DRaaS provider has the same infrastructure. So, if you’re spread across the country or the world, you need a provider with coverage in that area.
Providers with a large network of data centers and PoPs (points of presence) are more likely to provide consistent service. And thanks to local partnerships, providers like TeamMate can even help you stay compliant with local regulations – no extra paperwork required.
User Experience and Innovation
You could have the best DRaaS offering in the world, but if it’s not easy to use, all those bells and whistles won’t matter. If you think you’ve found a good solution, schedule a demo or set up a trial account to see what the user experience is like.
Does it have intuitive navigation?
Customizable settings?
Easy integrations? If the answer’s yes, that’s a good sign.
It’s also important to partner with a DRaaS provider that keeps its solutions up to date and is dedicated to innovation. That way, you – and your team – can stay ahead of the technological curve. One way to “test the waters” with a provider is to inquire about their product roadmap. What future updates do they have planned? What upgrades can you expect in the next few years?
Comprehensive Service
You don’t adopt a DRaaS solution because you want a larger workload. You adopt one to make your life – and your communications – easier.
This is why you need a DRaaS provider that offers end-to-end service, covering everything from system design and configuration to maintenance and support. That way, you can continue running your business while enjoying all the benefits of a custom-built DRaaS solution.
You should also ensure they have a monitoring platform in place so both of you can keep an eye on how things are going.
