At PeterConnects we are very excited to show you a new suite of solutions that have been in development for some time.

In this blog we would like to introduce our new Receptionist integrations for Microsoft Teams and Cisco’s Webex Teams. We will also outline our Hybrid Configurations and License Management platforms.

PeterConnects Cloud: Designed For Continuous Delivery Our cloud platform, which launched last year, now has hundreds of users. A futureproof platform designed for continuous delivery, it was built using Microservices architecture – which comprises small autonomous components that are loosely coupled.

In this way it’s different from traditional and larger systems as we can add, replace, and scale different process elements as needed. If one component fails, another can easily take over.

We also support automatic provisioning – meaning new users can be added via an automated process without manual actions – and handle all operation, fixes and updates (so customers and partners don’t need to worry about technical details).

Both secure by design and GDPR-compliant, our cloud service can support 0Auth 2.0 single sign on – compatible with both Microsoft and Cisco. With all of the measures in place, we were able to use it to create a new Unified Communications app with a single, customisable user interface – one that works across BroadWorks, Webex teams, and Microsoft Teams – through a single platform.

Microsoft Teams: Integrating Receptionist With A Multi-Layered Approach
Right now, Microsoft Teams is experiencing a wave of uptake by businesses as they adopt remote working. However, those on the frontline of calls and communications can enjoy a streamlined omnichannel process as our Receptionist console can now be fully integrated with Microsoft Teams.

Soon available in the platform’s app store, it’s aimed at those using Microsoft’s calling plans and direct routing telephony into Teams. One of the service’s main features is that it also connects to Microsoft 365 – using all available APIs – which enables the best possible user experience, as users can handle calls in a Microsoft environment. It also means that they can pull in Office 365 calendars and personal contacts’ details.

Webex Teams: Similar, But With Key Differences
While the Webex application is very similar to its Microsoft Teams counterpart in many ways, but there are some key differences.

Firstly users need to have a Webex calling license to get started. Those that do can log in via Cisco’s single sign on function. New subscribers can choose one of three packages: Essential, Advanced, and Premium.

The biggest difference from Microsoft Teams, however, is that the Receptionist console itself runs in a browser – in conjunction with Cisco phones and soft clients.

The service can be accessed easily via Cisco’s App Hub, but it won’t be part of the same environment – at least not when it launches in Q3 this year (TBC). While it’s co-hosted by both PeterConnects and Cisco, Webex Teams users and partners will see a single transparent solution.

Hybrid Configurations: Enabling Diverse Functionality
A lot of the diverse functionality we can offer right now comes from the fact we can combine services run both on-premise and in the cloud – Hybrid Configurations – across numerous Unified Communications platforms.

This is in part thanks to the Microservices architecture in our own server. As we can host so many connectors, we have a unique ability to have solutions from many different providers. This is what enables us to run both integrated and browser applications in a single ‘pane of glass’. Essentially, we could run a version of Webex Receptionist with a Microsoft Teams presence.

Go Live Dates Planned, But Delays Possible
While we’re working hard to ensure all of our new offerings are available as soon as possible, the current pandemic means that there could be some delay in bringing them to market.

As it currently stands, we’re hopeful we can make our first commercial release of Webex Teams in June or July. Our Microsoft Teams integration and Hybrid Configurations will launch in the second half of 2020.

If you or your customers would like to be a part of our initial wave for any of these solutions, please either contact your PeterConnects partner or get in touch with us directly.