What a UC Implementation Means for the IT Department

Your IT department is a valuable resource. They are responsible for ensuring you have the tools and resources that keep your business moving. From system security, software and application updates to new equipment set-up and repairs, they are the lifeblood of connectivity for a business. Because of this, when you are making the wise choice to move over to Unified Communications (UC), the IT department will play another extremely valuable role. But how exactly will the implementation change the way your IT department functions?

Here are a few IT changes you may experience:

Shifted Responsibilities:

There’s a long list of benefits of implementing a UC solution including enhanced user experience, mobile-friendly options, chat features, video conferencing and more. However, the downside is that it does take some time to switch over from a traditional phone system to a UC solution. Depending on the size of your business, this could mean weeks or months of transition time changing over equipment and processes. Additionally, even though your new systems will require less IT dependency on phone lines and additional servers, it will still require updates, monitoring, and scaling as business needs change.

Enhanced Security Policies:

A new UC implementation means you are likely implementing a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) process as well. BYOD comes with a list of potential security risks for a business. With important business documentation and applications now being made available on a host of different devices and connections, your IT department will need to advise the organization through the development of all BYOD policies. Developing a BYOD security policy can take a great deal of time and effort to create, not to mention ensuring that all employees are educated on the contents of it. However, once it is constructed, it provides the guidebook for your security policies and training processes.

Happy Employees:

Although it takes a significant amount of attention from the IT team, UC implementation results in happy employees – both in IT and other departments. Employees get to experience the convenience of a consistent end-user experience, real-time connections, strong video capabilities and an “always available” environment. IT staff members can troubleshoot issues from virtually anywhere, and the rest of the workforce can increase their productivity through a more mobile-friendly process. Response times increase, costs decrease and employee morale gets a boost.

Implementing a UC solution is a strategic business decision, and cannot be made with just costs and conveniences in mind. Businesses that understand the value of UC implementation also know that the ultimate ROI is reflected in increased employee performance. When quality communication processes and workflow outcomes connect, they create an environment that will benefit not only management but the entire workforce, including IT.