Counteracting the Communication Paradox.

There are more communication possibilities today than ever before - and yet it is often not easy to reach team members at the right time to involve them in current business processes. This situation gives rise to the development of a whole range of products and services: unified communication and collaboration (UCC), for example, aims to bring communication channels together in a unified application environment and thus render teamwork more efficient.

  #Digital Workplace   #Microsoft   #Microsoft 365 Assessment   #Microsoft Teams Telephony   #Skype for Business  
28.09.18
Holger Ott
+41 58 510 17 25
holger.ott@umb.ch

Computer-supported collaborative work (CSCW) has been scientifically investigated for many years; results are constantly incorporated into workplace applications. Microsoft's Skype for Business is one of the leading solutions in this field. The platform enables and simplifies computer-aided teamwork. Only too often, team projects are slowed down because those involved are difficult to reach and are not informed quickly enough about what other team members are doing at the moment. There are several reasons for this situation.

 

More channels, more devices - less accessibility

Workplace communication, as we all know, is associated with numerous disruptions and interruptions. The number of communication channels is constantly increasing. Ever more media and devices are available to convey information. However, in spite of this, it has not become easier to reach mobile team members and work colleagues to achieve synchronous communication. This communication paradox must be counteracted. The use of communication applications such as Skype for Business or Microsoft Teams brings together media, devices, communication channels and presentation tools. Such tools are intended to make it easier for users and team members to communicate in a team from any location - via PC or Mac, iPhone, iPad or Android device. Telephone systems are also integrated; Skype for Business offers numerous PSTN connection methods and options.
Services of the Skype Business platform are impressive in other respects too. In addition to high-quality HD video meetings which can be conducted on any device, it is also possible to transmit screenshots and files. Chat functions are integrated and also work during video conferences and meetings. Powerpoint upload enables presentations with interactive tools - just like in real life - and whiteboard features make it possible to collaborate with other team members to design and edit projects, plans or products - just as if the group were in the same room.

 

Skype for Business and Microsoft Teams to merge

Microsoft announced last year that the communication solution 'Teams' will, over time, replace Skype for Business in Office 365. Microsoft Teams is a platform that combines various types of communication such as workplace chat, notes, meetings and attachments. The service integrates with the company's Office 365 Subscription Productivity Suite and, through extensions, also enables the integration of non-Microsoft products. Microsoft's integration plans do not mean that all Skype for Business users will have to follow this Microsoft strategy. For example, Microsoft plans to launch a new Skype for Business server for on-premise solutions soon, with improved call setup and advanced call features.

 

UMB – Your Partner for Skype for Business and Microsoft Teams

If you rely on Microsoft Skype for Business or Microsoft 'Teams' for your communication needs, you've come to the right place at UMB. We offer sound support in the implementation of UCC projects. 80 highly qualified Senior System Engineers are ready to take care of your concerns. We will be happy to advise you; please contact me.