DID numbers - the key to improving business communications

With old telephone systems becoming obsolete, businesses are seeking more efficient communication solutions. One popular option is DID numbers, which offer cost-effectiveness and flexibility, making them a valuable asset for the enterprise. Integral to both modern VoIP systems and traditional telephone services, these numbers are an excellent choice for enhancing communications and generating value for the business.

So what is exactly a DID number? Let’s take a closer look at what it is, how it works, its use cases, and the benefits that these numbers offer.

What is a DID number?

A Direct Inward Dialing (DID) number, often referred to as a virtual number, is a phone number that allows incoming calls to be routed to a specific phone extension or to an individual. Operating over the Internet, these numbers can be assigned to multiple devices like phones and desktops.

Businesses can allocate these virtual numbers to different employees or departments, enhancing communication efficiency. Additionally, DID numbers used with VoIP phone systems support advanced features including call forwarding, auto-responders, and voicemail. These capabilities ensure that calls are directed to the appropriate person.

How does a DID number work?

A DID number works with two key technologies: Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and PBX (Private Branch Exchange) systems. For VoIP services, providers use SIP trunking to handle DID-generated inbound calls and route them to the correct destination. In a PBX setup, the provider forwards the calls directly to your PBX system, where the virtual number acts as an identifier, guiding the call to the designated system.

These numbers offer flexible options. Businesses can assign them to various extensions or individual users, tailoring routing management based on specific needs and bypassing self-service call routing, or IVRs. Additionally, DIDs can be assigned to multiple systems, as they are not tied to one device.

The types of numbers offered

DID number providers offer a diverse selection of numbers across various categories. It is important to choose the ones that best align with your business needs.

Local numbers start with an area code for a particular region, city, or state. Businesses that use these numbers can establish a local presence, enabling the enterprise to build their brand.

If you want a broader reach, national numbers are for you. These numbers are accessible throughout the whole country, allowing companies to establish a wider presence.

Toll-free numbers start with a three-digit prefix such as 800. The business covers the call fee, creating a cost-free and more reachable contact number for customers.

Similar to local numbers, mobile numbers have prefix codes for specific regions. The defining feature of these numbers is that they are SMS-enabled, allowing customers to contact businesses using voice or messages.

Virtual number benefits

DID numbers are a modern communication solution, improving upon older telephony systems. Therefore, they provide a multitude of benefits to company communications. Here are the key advantages of these numbers:

Affordable costs

Because virtual numbers operate over the Internet, they are more cost-effective to set up by eliminating the need for physical infrastructure. They also reduce the cost per call, allowing businesses to save on both setup and call costs.

Scalability and flexibility

DID numbers have no limitation on the amount of numbers you can implement. If needed, companies can allocate multiple phone numbers for each department or employee, ensuring that the communication system can grow with your business.

International expansion

With virtual phone numbers, companies can seamlessly expand their operations internationally. DID providers offer a wide range of numbers across numerous countries, simplifying the process of establishing a presence in desired locations.

Customer accessibility

Companies can assign a direct number to each department, such as sales, marketing, and accounting. Clients then can quickly reach the required department via the designated number, increasing engagement and customer satisfaction.

Number porting

Businesses can transfer their existing phone numbers to the chosen DID provider. By retaining the original numbers, companies can maintain call continuity with their customers without disruption.

Virtual numbers with PSTN and VoIP

DID numbers can be used with various communication systems, including the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and VoIP. Connecting virtual numbers to these systems allows businesses to enhance their communications by leveraging both traditional and modern technologies.

The traditional PSTN consists of physical telephone lines and switches that manage voice communications. By routing DID numbers through the PSTN, companies can direct incoming calls to their existing telephony setup. Businesses can use their existing infrastructure while benefiting from the flexibility and efficiency of DID numbers.

VoIP is a modern technology that leverages the Internet for making and receiving calls. Virtual numbers can seamlessly connect with VoIP systems, enabling companies to utilize Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) trunking. This allows the transmission of voice, video, and other media over the Internet, facilitating efficient and high-quality communications.

How virtual numbers can be utilized

Businesses can implement DID numbers to enjoy a number of benefits, including the streamlining of communications and improving customer service. Here are some common use cases:

Working remotely - Due to the virtual nature of DID numbers, employees can work remotely from anywhere with just an internet connection. This flexibility allows companies to operate with a global workforce, making team management easier across different regions.

Customer service - Businesses can assign multiple numbers to various departments, making it easier for customers to reach the right team. This direct access enhances efficiency and improves the quality of customer service.

Marketing campaigns - Virtual numbers can be valuable tools in marketing campaigns. They enable companies to track response rates, giving insights into customer interactions. The data gained can help brands evaluate the effectiveness of their marketing efforts.

Sales teams - Using DID numbers with a PBX system provides sales representatives with greater flexibility in managing incoming calls. A PBX can handle large volumes of calls and route them to appropriate individuals, ensuring that no call goes unanswered.

Conclusion

DID numbers offer businesses a flexible communication solution that works with both the traditional PSTN and modern VoIP systems. By leveraging these virtual numbers, companies can reduce costs, streamline operations, expand their reach, and improve customer accessibility. They are an excellent tool for businesses aiming to enhance their communication efficiency and effectiveness.

—

DIDWW offers the largest fully compliant international coverage of local, national, mobile, and toll-free Voice and SMS-enabled virtual phone numbers. Currently, we cover over 90 countries worldwide, with services being securely delivered over a private or public network. For more information regarding our DID numbers, please contact us today at sales@didww.com or via our live chat at any time.