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#12

Skype for Business is ranked #12 in the Video Conferencing Platforms product directory based on the latest available data collected by SelectHub. Compare the leaders with our In-Depth Report.

Skype for Business Pricing

Based on our most recent analysis, Skype for Business pricing starts at $2 (Per User, Monthly).

Price
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Starting From
$2
Pricing Model
Per User, Monthly
Free Trial
Yes, Request for Free

Training Resources

Skype for Business is supported with the following types of training:

Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars

Support

The following support services are available for Skype for Business:

Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Help Desk
Knowledge Base
Tickets
Training
24/7 Live Support

Skype for Business Benefits and Insights

Why use Skype for Business?

Key differentiators & advantages of Skype for Business

  • Enhanced Collaboration: Skype for Business integrates seamlessly with Microsoft Office applications, allowing teams to collaborate on documents in real-time during meetings.
  • Cost Efficiency: By reducing the need for travel and physical meeting spaces, Skype for Business helps organizations save on operational costs.
  • Global Reach: With support for multiple languages and international dialing, Skype for Business enables effective communication across different regions and time zones.
  • Security and Compliance: Skype for Business offers enterprise-grade security features, including encryption and compliance with industry standards, ensuring that sensitive information remains protected.
  • Scalability: Whether you are a small business or a large enterprise, Skype for Business can scale to meet your needs, supporting thousands of users simultaneously.
  • Integration with Existing Systems: The software integrates with existing telephony systems and other business applications, providing a unified communication platform without the need for extensive infrastructure changes.
  • Improved Productivity: Features like instant messaging, presence information, and quick file sharing streamline workflows and reduce the time spent on administrative tasks.
  • Customizable User Experience: Users can personalize their interface and settings to suit their preferences, enhancing user satisfaction and adoption rates.
  • Reliable Performance: With robust backend support and regular updates, Skype for Business ensures consistent and reliable performance, minimizing downtime and disruptions.
  • Mobile Accessibility: The mobile app allows employees to stay connected and productive on the go, ensuring that important communications are not missed.

Industry Expertise

Skype for Business is a communication and collaboration platform designed for larger organizations, offering enterprise-grade security and features like managing employee accounts and integrating with other Microsoft Office applications. It's best suited for businesses that require robust communication tools and a high level of security for their internal and external communications.

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Based on an aggregate of Skype for Business reviews taken from the sources above, the following pros & cons have been curated by a SelectHub Market Analyst.

Pros

  • Simple Interface: Users find the software easy to navigate, even those without prior experience.
  • Streamlined Workflows: Built-in integration with other Microsoft products like Outlook and SharePoint makes collaborating on projects and sharing files simple.
  • Practical Communication Tools: Features like screen sharing, file sharing, and group chat allow for real-time collaboration and efficient communication.
  • Budget-Friendly Options: Offers affordable communication choices, including free options, which can be advantageous for budget-conscious businesses.

Cons

  • Limited VoIP Capabilities: Skype for Business doesn't function as a full-fledged VoIP platform and lacks features like integrated dial-in audio conferencing, potentially requiring businesses to use additional services for comprehensive calling features.

Researcher's Summary:

User reviews of Skype for Business over the past year reveal a mixed bag, particularly as its successor, Microsoft Teams, takes center stage. While many users appreciate its ease of use and integration with other Microsoft products, some have voiced concerns about its limitations and the fact that it's been superseded. For instance, one user lauded the seamless transition from other Microsoft collaboration tools, highlighting the advantage of a unified ecosystem. However, the lack of integrated dial-in audio conferencing features was a common gripe, making it less ideal for businesses that rely heavily on this functionality. This shortcoming underscores the importance of considering specific communication needs when choosing a platform.

Despite its limitations, Skype for Business shines in its user-friendly interface, a crucial factor for businesses looking for intuitive tools that require minimal training. Its scalability is another strength, allowing it to accommodate the needs of both small businesses and large enterprises. However, the elephant in the room is Microsoft Teams, which offers a more comprehensive suite of features, including robust video conferencing and enhanced collaboration tools. This makes Skype for Business a better fit for businesses already invested in the Microsoft ecosystem and with basic communication needs, while those seeking a more future-proof solution might find Teams a more attractive option.

Key Features

Notable Skype for Business features include:

  • Instant Messaging: Real-time text communication with colleagues and clients.
  • Voice and Video Calls: High-definition audio and video calls for one-on-one or group meetings.
  • Presence Information: Displays availability status such as 'Available,' 'Busy,' or 'Do Not Disturb' to help manage interruptions.
  • Screen Sharing: Share your desktop or specific applications during meetings for collaborative work.
  • Meeting Scheduling: Integrated with Microsoft Outlook for easy scheduling and joining of meetings.
  • File Transfer: Securely send and receive files during conversations and meetings.
  • Meeting Recording: Record audio, video, and shared content for future reference or distribution.
  • Whiteboard: Interactive whiteboard feature for brainstorming and visual collaboration.
  • Polling: Conduct polls during meetings to gather instant feedback from participants.
  • Integration with Office 365: Seamless integration with other Microsoft Office applications for enhanced productivity.
  • Enterprise Security: Advanced encryption and authentication protocols to ensure secure communication.
  • Contact Management: Easily manage and organize contacts within the application.
  • Mobile Access: Access Skype for Business on mobile devices for communication on the go.
  • Customizable User Interface: Personalize the interface to suit individual preferences and workflows.
  • Federation: Connect with external organizations using Skype for Business or other compatible platforms.
  • Call Analytics: Monitor call quality and performance with detailed analytics and reporting tools.
  • Voicemail Integration: Voicemail messages are integrated with email for easy access and management.
  • Call Queues and Auto Attendants: Manage incoming calls efficiently with automated systems.
  • Multi-Device Support: Use Skype for Business across multiple devices, including desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
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