4 things to do before deploying Skype

Posted on Friday April 20, 2018

From instant messaging to video conferencing, Skype for Business offers many communication features many companies need to be productive. But before you start making calls on Skype, there are four things you should do to ensure crystal-clear quality.

#1. Conduct a preliminary network assessment

By conducting a comprehensive preliminary network assessment, you'll be able to determine whether or not your current network has met Skype's network performance requirements.

Its network performance requirements are separated into three categories: latency (the time it takes for a data packet to go from point A to point B), packet loss (the percentage of data packets that fail to reach their destination), and jitter (the average change in delay between successful data packets delivery). You can meet these requirements by applying Quality of Service (QoS) to your network.

QoS allows you to reserve network resources to Skype calls. Doing so enables these types of calls to be transmitted faster over your network, minimizing interruptions and lost connections during your business calls. Deploy QoS on all your networks, including WANs, LANs, and WiFi networks.

If you experience instability even after implementing QoS, download Microsoft's Bandwidth Calculator to know the exact WAN bandwidth requirements your Skype for Business needs for deployment and adjust your current WAN bandwidth accordingly.

#2. Test out Skype for Business with a small pilot group

Now that you've optimized your network, form a small group to test out your Skype for Business. From here, you'll be able to spot kinks and make appropriate adjustments, determine its benefits, and create best practices. Once all the issues your pilot group flagged have been addressed, you're ready to deploy Skype for Business to your entire organization.

#3. Prepare the right equipments

Did you know that having high-quality equipment can impact your overall call quality? Although getting the appropriate equipment is costly, having certified, state-of-the-art devices can help you with echo cancellation, noise filtering, higher sound and image resolution, and latency.

Depending on what you'll be using Skype for, you might only require a headset and webcam or more advanced equipments. A managed services provider (MSP) can help you determine the right equipment you need to ensure high-quality calls.

#4. Research and choose the right technology partners

Last, you should conduct thorough research before deciding on your technology partner for Skype for Business. Although many MSPs offer Skype for Business, they don't all require and offer the same things. Different MSPs may offer voice and video plans at varying prices. As a result, it is important for you to understand what each MSP offers and whether or not it'll benefit you before committing to one.

Do you need Skype for Business to make business calls with your colleagues or business partners? Call our experts to learn how we can transform your communication with Skype for Business and get started today!