Lync Migration Featured Article

BroadSoft's UC Solutions Now Lync, Skype for Business Compatible

By Steve Anderson Contributing Writer

Changing the communications game is a big job, but Microsoft Lync and Skype (News - Alert) for Business have proven more than up to the task. Now, BroadSoft is recognizing those services’ importance in the market; they’ve recently announced interoperability between the two products and large parts of BroadSoft (News - Alert)'s lineup.

The new interoperability means that not just BroadSoft's BroadWorks system, but also its BroadCloud and UC-One systems are now compatible with Lync and Skype for Business. That adds several key functions, including screen-sharing, file-sharing, mobility functions and voice and video to the system, making it even better overall. The new tools, and old alike, can all be reached through the same common interface. BroadSoft turned to Microsoft (News - Alert)'s own software developer kit (SDK) to make sure its lineup would work with Lync and Skype for Business, which represents BroadSoft's ongoing commitment to interoperability.

BroadSoft's president and CEO, Michael Tessler, noted “We're working with the biggest brands in the industry to build an unparalleled ecosystem of interoperable solutions. We are working hard to ensure that both service providers and their customers are provided with collaborative communication solutions that are compatible with their productivity software of choice -- without sacrificing carrier-class scale, reliability and security.” The company is currently demonstrating the system at its annual BroadSoft Connections event, so those interested can have a look.

BroadSoft's new development takes an already popular service—Microsoft Lync or Skype for Business—and makes it an even stronger force. Several new functions come into play, and for those companies that were already getting value out of Lync or Skype for Business, BroadSoft now has a way to offer more.

While companies might not have taken a chance on BroadSoft alone, Microsoft Lync or Skype for Business interoperability may sweeten a deal. Users of those solutions may be drawn to BroadSoft's new tools, widely expanding BroadSoft’s sales pool. This new connection doesn't guarantee future BroadSoft sales, but it will likely boost exposure and the value of the solution.  

Edited by Kyle Piscioniere