Lync Roadmap Update

An updated Lync roadmap released for the next 18 months calls for mobile app improvements and connectivity to Skype in 2013 and a major new version of the server and service in 2014. The Lync and Skype technologies enable users to exchange presence information and conduct communications sessions with instant messaging (IM), voice, video, and other modes over IP networks. Like other unified communications technologies, they can help workers carry out urgent communication more efficiently and reduce the need for travel, at lower cost than dedicated voice and video networks. Microsoft’s plans call for gradual integration of Lync and Skype, but both are likely to survive in some form through mid-2014.

Lync and Skype Organizations Merged

The Lync client and server software enables users to view and publish presence status (for example, available or away) and initiate communications sessions that include IM, voice, video, and application sharing. “Enterprise voice” capabilities enable Lync installations to integrate with or replace on-premises private branch exchange (PBX) telephone networks. The Microsoft-hosted Lync Online service, a component of Office 365 service plans, offers most Lync functions but not enterprise voice. Microsoft also owns the Skype client software and service for consumers and small businesses, which offer many of the same functions as the Lync product line. Microsoft’s primary competitors in the unified communications arena are Avaya, Cisco, and IBM. Lync software has been updated every 18 months to two years, while Lync Online (and Skype) have been updated more frequently.