The ultimate Skype for Business guide

Skype for Business was earlier known as Microsoft Lync. It is a new version of Skype which has been introduced for professional use. Everyone knows that Skype is one of the leading video calling applications used across the globe. It has been recorded that Skype has more than 400 million worldwide active users on a monthly basis. Moreover, the user base is ever increasing. Skype for Business has been built on the same platform, but with a different slant adapted for corporate use. It is used by organizations around the world for internal and external communication purposes, with a bunch of additional features.

If you are wondering if Skype for Business is the right solution for your firm or business, then this Skype for business guide is surely going to help you. The interesting thing is that Skype for Business has a much-simplified user interface as compared to that of Microsoft Lync. Those who are using Skype calling for personal use can get adapted to Skype for Business in no time. Though there are companies like Cisco that are giving tough competition to Microsoft with a similar app, yet the ease and comfort with a host of unique features this app offers makes it a standalone product.

The new features added in Skype for Business include better look and feel. You can now make calls with the application using a desk phone. Furthermore, it has been integrated with the Skype directory that allows users to make calls with ease by finding contacts from the directory. The other benefits are the addition of Call Monitor and Rate My Call features. You also have quick access call controls with the new Skype for Business.

Microsoft Lync features that are retained in Skype for Business include the popular Quick Action buttons which allow users to IM or call a contact with just one click. The Skype meeting room has been simplified with easy to find commands and text formatting for chats. These changes help save time by quickly finding the command you are looking for and distinguishing between messages from different co-workers.

Features of Skype for business

• MS Office 365 integration: No doubt Skype for Business is a significant component introduced by Microsoft for a more collaborative business communication. Every organization wants to empower its employees with apps and tools that streamline the work process. To meet this requirement of companies, Microsoft has equipped Skype for Business with the best MS Office 365 integration to facilitate video conferencing. The company has further enhanced the product by adding a preview option that can be viewed before you install the application. Moreover, the compatibility with Apple products make is more comprehensive.

• Skype calls with a desk phone for audio: The unique feature that allows users to make Skype calls with a desk phone for audio is offered to organizations that have Skype Server 2015. Many of the companies that use the platform have equipped themselves with this server. It entails a Private Branch Exchange (PBX) desk phone which can work with Skype for Business. With it, the application can find the co-workers present in your company and add them into a call through this interface. Won’t you love to know the advantages making calls from Skype for Business via your desk phone? The important thing is that your caller id remains the same.

• File Sharing Facility: Moreover, you also can enjoy additional benefits like IM, sharing of Desktop and Application. You can share files as attachments when engaged in a call without having any disturbances in the audio quality. The Skype directory added in the user interface connects the users of Skype via a single database. To make a call to someone, you just need to search for the contact name and connect. And, if their contact is not saved in your list, then the Skype directory finds them and gets you connected via a call. Previously call monitor was available to Skype users only. But, now it is offered to Skype for Business users as well. This facilitates effective multi-tasking for a professional. The quick access control and the dial-pad features are still the same.

Conclusion:

In the modern work culture, the employees of big MNCs, want to be globally connected via various platforms. In fact, the organizational needs make it more essential to stay connected. No matter where the team members are located, be it separate buildings or any other country, they must be able to stay in touch to keep updated on the work status and function more effectively. Skype for Business offers these separated and differently located employees a platform to collaborate and be more productive. It has greatly enhanced features than Microsoft Lync and for sure is a must-have application for business organizations. This Skype for business guide helps you understand the positivity that this application brings in.