Lync is the Unified Communication tool from Microsoft. It is picking up speed quickly because it provides a private secure Instant Messaging platform for SMB's (Small and Medium Businesses).. The extra cool thing is that video conferencing works great along with screen sharing and application sharing. I now have several customers who our company has helped with the move to Microsoft Lync.
So what lessons do I have to share regarding Lync implementations. The good news is that there is nothing huge or scary about this product. Once it is set up correctly it is really quite intuitive. These are really just a few ideas to consider.
1. Be ready to purchase cameras, microphones and monitors.
2. Embrace seeing yourself on the big screen.
3. Plan on working with a professional provider.
4. What about your VoIP solution
First, thing you need to know is that once you start working with this technology you will find yourself needing to purchase the equipment that makes audio and video possible. Whats great is that this technology has really evolved and is much less expensive. Most laptops today ship with a camera and mic built in. I was very surprised at the excellent quality in my basic built in mic and camera built in to my Lenovo laptop. If you have a conference room you may find you want to set up group conferences with Lync. That works great! Of course you'll need a large monitor and PC with camera and microphon connected in order to do these conferences. I recommend Mondopad . http://www.infocus.com/mondopad this is an affordable quality all in one solution that we use and recommend to our customers.
Next, I noticed it is kind of scary the first time you see yourself on the screen. Even though this is the case the other people want to see you. So be ready to make an appearance. I think this is one of the key's to effective video conferencing. Don't turn off the video. You may not like to look at yourself but others do.
Third.........I'm not sure I need to say much about this. Lync does need some configuration, work with a professional provider who can save you time and get you up and running quick and you will be much happier. I would suggest a Microsoft Gold partner or higher.
Lastly, once you get Lync set up you will realize there is one thing missing. How do you make a call to the outside world? This is where your VoIP (Voice over IP) solution comes into play. Essentially your phone system which is your connection to the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) needs to talk to Lync. Some phone systems easily accomplish this while others have no integration available. Many companies operate without ever setting up this last piece but to some it is essential. If it is for your company you'll want to keep this in mind.
Good luck Lync'n up
So what lessons do I have to share regarding Lync implementations. The good news is that there is nothing huge or scary about this product. Once it is set up correctly it is really quite intuitive. These are really just a few ideas to consider.
1. Be ready to purchase cameras, microphones and monitors.
2. Embrace seeing yourself on the big screen.
3. Plan on working with a professional provider.
4. What about your VoIP solution
First, thing you need to know is that once you start working with this technology you will find yourself needing to purchase the equipment that makes audio and video possible. Whats great is that this technology has really evolved and is much less expensive. Most laptops today ship with a camera and mic built in. I was very surprised at the excellent quality in my basic built in mic and camera built in to my Lenovo laptop. If you have a conference room you may find you want to set up group conferences with Lync. That works great! Of course you'll need a large monitor and PC with camera and microphon connected in order to do these conferences. I recommend Mondopad . http://www.infocus.com/mondopad this is an affordable quality all in one solution that we use and recommend to our customers.
Next, I noticed it is kind of scary the first time you see yourself on the screen. Even though this is the case the other people want to see you. So be ready to make an appearance. I think this is one of the key's to effective video conferencing. Don't turn off the video. You may not like to look at yourself but others do.
Third.........I'm not sure I need to say much about this. Lync does need some configuration, work with a professional provider who can save you time and get you up and running quick and you will be much happier. I would suggest a Microsoft Gold partner or higher.
Lastly, once you get Lync set up you will realize there is one thing missing. How do you make a call to the outside world? This is where your VoIP (Voice over IP) solution comes into play. Essentially your phone system which is your connection to the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) needs to talk to Lync. Some phone systems easily accomplish this while others have no integration available. Many companies operate without ever setting up this last piece but to some it is essential. If it is for your company you'll want to keep this in mind.
Good luck Lync'n up
