Skype for Business

Skype for Business is a comprehensive online meeting solution tailored for enterprise needs, offering a robust suite of features like instant messaging, audio calls, and voice conferencing. Developed by Microsoft, it's integrated seamlessly with the Microsoft Office suite, providing the convenience of accessing contact lists from local directory services such as Microsoft Exchange Server and Microsoft Outlook. All interactions within this platform are safeguarded by the Skype for Business Server, ensuring that all messages, calls, and shared files are securely maintained within the corporate network. While primarily designed for business environments, Skype for Business is remarkably efficient, requiring just 100 MB of hard disk space. It supports Windows 8/8.1/10, and is also compatible with Apple and Android devices.

Skype for Business is equipped with a variety of productivity-enhancing features tailored for business operations. These include status indicators that inform you of a contact's availability, whether they are busy, attending a meeting, or delivering a presentation. Your communications are well-protected, thanks to encryption protocols such as Transport Layer Security, Secure Real-time Transport Protocol, and Session Initiation Protocol, which ensure privacy and integrity during exchanges with other Skype for Business users and across different instant messaging platforms.

Core Features for Enterprise Users

Regular Skype users will find a familiar interface in Skype for Business, featuring elements like the Contacts list, presence indicators, and familiar icons and sounds. However, it distinguishes itself with features inherited from Lync, Microsoft's previous unified communication solution. For instance, the Quick Action buttons facilitate swift sending of chat or call requests with a single tap. Additionally, the Skype Meeting window provides a streamlined array of controls and menus for easy navigation. This includes tabbed conversations for managing multiple discussions at once, and formatted chat text for clarity. File transfers are enhanced with previews showing file names and sizes, along with options to download or delete the file through a long-press action on the preview window.

Integrating with Phone Systems

For businesses utilizing a Private Branch Exchange (PBX) phone system, Skype for Business offers seamless integration, allowing calls to be initiated through the platform while audio is managed via the PBX system. This integration allows users to leverage other features of Skype for Business during a call, such as sharing links and attachments, enhancing communication efficiency and clarity with colleagues or clients.

An All-Inclusive Communication Tool for Enterprises

Skype for Business serves as a potent productivity tool for enterprises looking to integrate instant messaging and VoIP functionalities into their Microsoft Office workflows. It's also an excellent choice for regular Skype users seeking a more secure platform for file sharing and video conferencing. Ultimately, Skype for Business facilitates seamless communication with team members, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and improving turnaround times.