Dialtone have been working with a number of organisations on unified communications and the viability of Lync. Before embarking on a Lync implementation, it is important to consider both the internal and external impact of the project. Dialtone have found that it is important to consider.

1. The total cost of all the Lync licences required. Organisations more often than not do not understand the licencing model and underestimate the full licencing costs.

2. If your organisation requires a contact (or call) centre, the options available through Lync are very limited. You will need a specific Contact Centre add-on or alternative provider.

3. Lync requires a good data infrastructure and the bandwidth to support it and in addition you will need to consider SIP trunking. Most organisations prefer to work with their existing carriers to provide these services. To avoid significant cost increases or unreasonable contract extensions you need to plan well. Consider where you are in the contract life cycle and plan accordingly.

4. Choose your Integrator wisely. Lync is very new to New Zealand and many of the integrators have little experience in implementing this particular solution. Try to avoid becoming their “Guinea Pig”.

5. The decision to either use Lync as the core telecommunications backbone or use integrate to your existing PABX system needs to be made early in the project. This can be a complex and difficult decision.

There are a number of other small considerations but if you get the above aspects right you will be well on your way.

Dialtone are happy to have an no-obligation meeting to discuss your Microsoft Lync strategy and plans. Please contact Des at Dialtone