What is UCaaS?
UCaaS is short for Unified Communications as a Service. It blends internet-based phone and messaging into a full-featured communications platform. Companies adopt UCaaS to provide staff with collaboration tools to work anywhere. UCaaS solutions function across a user’s computer, desk phone, and smartphone.
Let’s break it down even further.
- Unified Communications (UC) integrates many communications such as phone, chat, and video conferencing. It enhances productivity and provides ways to interact across different communication channels.
- “As a Service” (aaS) is a delivery model for cloud service and software. Unlike Software as a Service (SaaS), UCaaS is exclusive to communication tools and APIs.
Essential UCaaS functions
- Voice: Phone service that includes call forwarding, call recording, and advanced call routing.
- Video: One-to-one and multi-participant video conferencing for meetings with a personal touch. Guests can join via web conferencing.
- Messaging: Internal team instant messaging that allows for individual and group-based real-time chat.
- Collaboration – Tools that enhance workplace collaboration with scheduling, messaging, and project management.
- Cloud-based – Hosted over the internet in a dedicated private cloud or secure data center.
How does UCaaS work?
UCaaS provides real-time video conferencing, chat, SMS, and even contact center capabilities.
Since UCaaS works over the internet, you don’t need any extra VoIP hardware to serve customers.
UCaaS providers are responsible for security, backend configuration, and telephony functions.
We can’t talk about how UCaaS works without mentioning VoIP phone service.
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) powers the core functionality of UCaaS voice. VoIP converts sound and transmits it into data packets to a cloud phone service provider. Phone numbers and voicemail notifications operate using the universal Session Initiation Protocol (SIP).
Benefits of Unified Communications
1) Lower costs
UCaaS is less expensive and provides more value than your existing phone system. Businesses can save up to 65% when they switch to the cloud
With UCaaS, you no longer need to pay extra for:
- Audio conferencing services
- Online meeting apps
- SMS text message
- Helpdesk ticketing
- Internal file sharing
- Team messaging software
- On-premises telephones
- Third-party softphone apps
2) Flexibility to work from home
Functionality like phone service, instant messaging, video conferencing, and file sharing is essential. All you need is a high-speed internet connection. Almost every DSL or cable internet connection is fast enough.
3) Streamline many communication tools
UCaaS consolidates separate communication channels into one. An entire suite of business communications apps can all be set up in less than an hour. IT professionals enjoy its centralized management.
4) Secure communication solutions
As remote workers become more common, a concern emerges around endpoint security. Encrypted communication channels are essential to maintain the continuity of the business.
5) Achieve scalability across the enterprise
UC has proven itself as a technology fit for enterprises and small businesses alike.The only thing you need to consider is internet access. You won’t need on-site servers, telephony equipment, or to install phone lines.
UCaaS disadvantages:
- Depends on high-speed internet
- Change management
- Limited emergency calling
Courtesy:https://www.nextiva.com/blog/what-is-ucaas.html
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