Deciding to switch to unified communications can be a daunting task. There are many factors to consider, and it’s essential to make the right choice for your business.
This blog post will discuss some of the most important factors to keep in mind when switching to unified communications. By considering these factors, you can be sure that you’re making the best decision for your company!
What Is Unified Communication?
Unified Communication (UC) integrates different communication methods into a single platform. This can include VoIP, instant messaging, video conferencing, and email. UC allows users to communicate with each other using various methods, all from a single interface.
What To Consider When Implementing A Unified Communication Platform:
Your organization’s communication needs are constantly evolving, making it essential to have unified communications solutions that can adapt to you. But before purchasing a new UC platform, several factors must be considered by your IT department and project management team. This article will discuss five of the most critical factors to consider when implementing a new unified communications platform.
Security, Network, and Policies
When choosing a unified communication solution for your company or organization, it’s crucial to consider security carefully. Today some companies have not yet offered the same level of protection as traditional telephony systems. This is because they were initially designed with voice-only services in mind. When looking at unified communication solutions, ask about their security features and how they protect your data.
Flexible and Scalable Deployment Options
A single system with flexible deployment options will enable the business to expand seamlessly with fewer resources, time, and cost. In addition, the ability to deploy on-premise or in the cloud allows users to decide how they want their communication solution deployed based on their preference for total control over data security, infrastructure investment costs, or labor-intensive maintenance.
A UC system deployed in the cloud is ideal for a small business because it removes the burden of maintaining and upgrading hardware. A cloud-based solution also allows employees to work remotely, which promotes productivity. In addition, the ability to deploy on-premise or cloud provides an organization with maximum flexibility based on its communication needs.
Choosing The Best Partner To Meet Your Needs
When looking for a unified communication (UC) solution, it is vital to find the right partner. Unfortunately, not all UC providers are created equal, so you’ll want to do your research and make sure you select a provider that meets your specific needs. Here are some factors to consider when switching to a UC solution:
Technology Expertise. Only partner with a provider with vast experience and expertise in the industry and excellent customer support available 24/24 – 365 days/year. To ensure your employees can work effectively at all times, you need access to knowledgeable engineers who know the ins and outs of your UC system.
Features & Functionality. Your partner should offer a comprehensive feature set that meets your specific needs, as well as the needs of your employees. For example, does the provider offer features like instant messaging (IM), presence management, and conference calls? Is the UC platform easy to use so your employees can quickly access the features they need?
Bring Your Device (BYOD)
One of the significant factors to consider when switching to a unified communication solution is BYOD. This means that employees can bring their own devices to work and use them for business purposes. While this can be convenient for employees, it can also be a security risk if the devices are not adequately secured. Therefore, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of BYOD before making a final decision.
Network Infrastructure And Architecture
The first thing to consider is the network infrastructure and architecture. Your business should be able to handle VoIP traffic, or your provider won’t give you the service you need. A good Internet connection with a high upload speed will prevent packet loss, delay, and jitter on calls while allowing seamless video conference calls.
In closing, Unified Communications has evolved with the growth of businesses and organizations and increasing demand from users for access to information anywhere at any time. As a result, unified communication is no longer a buzzword but an essential part of modern business communication. This can also be seen in that both small and large businesses are turning to UC as they realize its potential.
