Skype for Business
Enhance your team's collaboration with Skype for Business, offering seamless video calls, messaging, and secure file sharing for effective communication.
Skype for Business enables smooth interactions through video conferencing, instant messaging, and file sharing capabilities. Although users may occasionally experience reduced quality in screen sharing with some lag, its compatibility with Microsoft Office and secure connections position it as a trustworthy option for businesses seeking all-encompassing collaborative solutions.
What Is Skype for Business?
Overview
Skype for Business is an advanced voice messaging platform designed for larger organizations, extending beyond the basic functionalities of traditional Skype. This application enables users to communicate with colleagues through messaging, group video conferencing, and screen sharing. It can be deployed either in the cloud or on-premises.
With Skype for Business, users can engage with others via text messages, high-definition (HD) video, and audio calls. It is offered as a standalone product or as part of the comprehensive 365 suite from Microsoft Office. This online meeting tool facilitates VoIP calls, video chats, and audio conversations across various devices, accommodating meetings of up to 250 participants.
The platform enhances collaboration through video conferencing, supporting users whether they are online or on the phone. Additionally, users can record meetings for later reference. Thanks to its seamless integration with Microsoft Office applications, users can present and share files during calls. Skype for Business provides a centralized hub for multi-party 1080p HD video conferencing, advanced scheduling options, desktop sharing capabilities, PowerPoint presentation support, and real-time application sharing.
This online meeting solution also allows users to make calls and send texts to both landlines and mobile phones. Scheduling meetings with contacts is straightforward, and users can check their contacts' online statuses through Microsoft Outlook. Applications like PowerPoint and Word enable users to initiate conversations easily. Participants can join meetings effortlessly through notifications or calendar invites with just one click. Moreover, Microsoft's PSTN conferencing feature ensures that users can dial in when internet connectivity is poor or unavailable. Other notable features include the ability to control other participants' desktops and support for third-party dial-in options.
Pricing
Skype for Business presents three distinct pricing options:
Standalone Pricing Plan: Starts at $2.00 per user per month.
Standalone Online Plan 2: Priced at $5.50 per user per month.
Office 365 Business Essentials: Available for $5.00 per user per month with an annual commitment.
Office 365 Business Premium: Offered at $12.50 per user per month with an annual commitment.
Free Trial
While Skype for Business does provide a free version of its service, it does not offer a free trial option for new users.
Support
The application offers support via email and maintains an extensive online knowledge base for user assistance.
Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
This software enables users to organize employee contact information within the organization, making it readily accessible for those wishing to connect with colleagues.
Product Advantages
The intuitive design allows users to create favorites and groups easily, while the quick search functionality and integration with Outlook enhance usability. Users can also check the availability status of others effortlessly.
Product Limitations
Skype for Business has some constraints regarding the calendar application's functionalities.