What to Consider When Choosing Unified Communications Systems

Just like any decision, making the right choice when choosing a unified communications (UC) system relies on a whole host of factors. Business selections can ultimately determine whether your company will sink or swim and may have a lasting impact on your organisation’s fortunes.

Communication is arguably the most important aspect when it comes to maintaining efficiency and competence in the workplace. UC can help improve workplace contact but it is not a one size fits all system. There are a few factors to contemplate before making the move.

Can It Work with Current Systems in Place?

Before you begin, you need to recognise whether you are aiming to completely reconstruct your telephony systems or simply want to integrate UC into your current arrangements. Your current setup may not be suitable for combining with a unified structure – especially if your broadband package isn’t large or quick enough. On the other hand, you’d need to ensure that your selected UC system can support applications and processes you have in place.

Are There Any Network Requirements or Restrictions to Be Considered?

On a similar note, you should consider the allowances and limitations that will present themselves within your current network. Your internet connection is going to have to deal with an increased volume of traffic including voice and video data that isn’t currently their territory. It is worth taking a look at your current structure to determine exactly where you could potentially face issues. From there you can take the relevant steps to ensure that your unified communications will not be hindered by an insufficient network.

The Importance of Security Levels

You’ve probably been around for long enough to realise the importance of cybersecurity. Preserving the integrity of your systems is always a primary concern when installing new features. Separate conversation devices all carry their own security risks and have to be monitored individually. UC however, implements your communication methods in one common, secure place. The information stored can be securely encrypted to ensure that it is only accessible by those who have a genuine need or authority use data.

Can Your Business Grow with Your Options?

If you forecast expanding your company in the future, you should establish whether your UC setup can accommodate this without the need to readapt. Will your chosen solution allow you to incorporate further devices and apps down the line? Think about your specific needs and which direction your company is headed without getting overzealous.

Do You Need All Features of UC Immediately?

The principle logic for making a transition to unified communications is based on its ability to save money and act as an investment. It is possible to make a staggered switch to UC to focus on primary objectives before fully committing to your chosen system. Introducing new aspects of UC at a pace that suits you can help to take away the stresses that can occur from immediate overhaul.

How Will It Be Used?

UC is a bespoke service that will be unique to each business. Your needs will vary from those of other companies and your system will reflect this. Consider how you will use it in order to get the best package for you. How many devices will run from UC? For which tasks will these devices be responsible? Recognising these facts will ensure that you aren’t stuck with a system that too big or too small.

Pushing Your Business Forward

All in all, the benefits of UC are pretty clear. Integrated work operations where every member of staff is singing from the same hymn book. The real key is figuring out how you need UC solutions to be adapted to your particular purposes

Once you have this in place however, you're on the right track and your business can continue to thrive and grow