Skype is available to home users in a single-use capacity, what many people don’t know is that there is a much fuller-featured version too; “Skype For Business”. With the right configuration, a Skype For Business installation can entirely replace any and all on-premise business functions.

Key Features:-

• Instant messaging and chat history.
• Calls between Skype and landline / mobile phone numbers.
• Skype Premium.
• Voicemail.
• SMS text messaging.
• Wireless hotspot network access.
• Application features.
• Video calling, including Meeting Broadcasts for large virtual meetings for up to 10,000 guests
• PSTN Conferencing (employees can attend meetings using a traditional standard phone)
• Full integration with Office 365 (in fact, it’s a key delivery component as they go hand in hand.

Key Benefits:-

• High quality video. Users can connect through high quality video sessions.
• Mobility.
• Easier ways to exchange ideas.
• Ways to see, share, discuss.
• Browser-based Skype for Business Online Web App.
• Built-in security.
• Cost management and free up capital.
• No more “phone system” boxes adorning the walls of your office.
• As it’s all software, it’s easily transferrable.
• The system will automatically “move” with you since users need only have an internet connection, a sign-in, and then all features are available.

Downsides :-

• Your business needs a good internet connection, with QoS (Quality of Service) configured so that your voice system always has capacity. However, as alluded to above, in the event of internet failure, users could simply go home and work from their own internet connections. In this way, it could be considered more resilient than a traditional phone system, who functionality is entirely reliant on the incoming lines.
• To ensure good quality calls, you’ll also need Skype-approved headsets (either USB or, better yet, Bluetooth Wireless). These are not cheap, but are comparable with traditional phones in terms of price.