Untangling the Costs of Microsoft Lync: Understanding and Managing Your Communication System Expenses

Microsoft Lync, now known as Skype for Business, is a popular communication platform used by businesses worldwide. It offers a variety of features such as instant messaging, video conferencing, and screen sharing. However, one question that often arises when considering using this platform is the cost. How much does it really cost to implement Microsoft Lync? In this article, we will explore the different costs associated with implementing Microsoft Lync and how it can impact your business.

Firstly, it's important to note that the cost of Microsoft Lync can vary depending on the size and needs of your organization. For smaller businesses with fewer employees, the cost may be relatively low. However, larger organizations with more complex needs may find the cost to be significantly higher.

One of the main costs associated with Microsoft Lync is licensing. You will need to purchase licenses for each user who will be using the platform. The cost of these licenses can range from $2 to $15 per user per month depending on the plan you choose. Additionally, if you require additional features such as enterprise voice capabilities, you will need to purchase additional licenses at an added cost.

Another cost associated with Microsoft Lync is hardware. Depending on your current infrastructure, you may need to purchase new hardware to support the platform. This could include servers, gateways, and IP phones, which can add up quickly in terms of cost.

Aside from licensing and hardware costs, there are also ongoing maintenance and support costs to consider. Microsoft offers different support plans, ranging from basic to premier support. The cost of these plans can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars per year.

Training and implementation costs are another factor to consider. Your employees will need to be trained on how to use the platform, and depending on the complexity of your setup, you may need to bring in outside consultants to assist with implementation. These costs can also add up quickly.

It's important to consider the cost of downtime as well. If Microsoft Lync experiences any issues, your business may be unable to communicate effectively, leading to lost productivity and revenue. Investing in a reliable infrastructure and support plan can help minimize downtime and its associated costs.

In conclusion, the cost of implementing Microsoft Lync can vary depending on the size and needs of your organization. Licensing, hardware, ongoing maintenance and support, training and implementation, and the cost of downtime are all factors to consider when determining the overall cost. While it may seem like a significant investment upfront, the benefits of using a communication platform such as Microsoft Lync can ultimately lead to increased productivity and revenue for your business.

Introduction

Microsoft Lync is a communication platform designed for businesses that offers instant messaging, video conferencing, and voice calls. It has been rebranded as Skype for Business since 2015. Microsoft Lync is a popular choice for organizations as it offers an all-in-one solution for their communication needs. However, one of the main concerns when implementing such a platform is the cost of Microsoft Lync.

Licensing

One of the most significant costs associated with Microsoft Lync is the licensing fee. The licensing fee varies depending on the edition purchased and the number of users. There are two editions available: Standard Edition and Enterprise Edition. The Standard Edition is suitable for small businesses with up to 5,000 users, while the Enterprise Edition is ideal for larger organizations with more than 5,000 users.

Standard Edition Licensing

The Standard Edition of Microsoft Lync requires a server license and a client access license (CAL) for each user. The server license costs around $699, while the CAL is priced at $31 per user. For example, if a business has 50 users, they would need to purchase a server license for $699 and 50 CALs for $1,550, bringing the total cost to $2,249.

Enterprise Edition Licensing

The Enterprise Edition of Microsoft Lync has a different licensing structure. It requires a server license, a CAL, and an Enterprise CAL (ECAL) for each user. The server license costs around $3,999, while the CAL is priced at $31 per user, and the ECAL is priced at $107 per user. For example, if a business has 500 users, they would need to purchase a server license for $3,999, 500 CALs for $15,500, and 500 ECALs for $53,500, bringing the total cost to $73,999.

Hardware Costs

Another cost associated with Microsoft Lync is hardware. Microsoft Lync requires a server to run, which can be expensive. The server needs to have sufficient processing power, memory, and storage capacity to handle the demands of the software. Additionally, businesses may need to purchase new network switches, routers, and firewalls to support the increased traffic generated by the software.

Server Costs

The cost of a server varies depending on its specifications. A basic server that can support up to 100 users can cost around $2,000. However, more powerful servers that can support up to 1,000 users can cost upwards of $10,000.

Network Infrastructure Costs

To support the increased traffic generated by Microsoft Lync, businesses may need to upgrade their network infrastructure. This can include purchasing new switches, routers, and firewalls. The cost of network infrastructure varies depending on the size of the business and the complexity of the network. Small businesses may only need to spend a few thousand dollars, while larger organizations may need to spend tens of thousands of dollars.

Installation and Configuration Costs

Microsoft Lync requires installation and configuration, which can be a time-consuming process. Businesses may need to hire an IT professional to install and configure the software, which can add to the cost.

Consulting Fees

Businesses may need to hire a consultant to assist with the installation and configuration of Microsoft Lync. The cost of consulting fees varies depending on the consultant's experience and the complexity of the installation. On average, businesses can expect to pay between $100 and $200 per hour for consulting services.

Employee Training

Once Microsoft Lync is installed, businesses will need to train their employees on how to use the software. This can be done through in-house training or by hiring a consultant to provide training. The cost of employee training varies depending on the size of the business and the complexity of the software.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of Microsoft Lync can be significant, but it is essential to consider the benefits it offers. Microsoft Lync provides an all-in-one communication solution that can improve productivity and efficiency for businesses. When considering the cost, businesses should also factor in the potential savings they can make by reducing travel expenses and increasing collaboration. Overall, Microsoft Lync can be a valuable investment for businesses that are looking to streamline their communication processes.

Cost of Microsoft Lync

Microsoft Lync is a powerful communication and collaboration tool that can greatly benefit organizations. However, it's important to carefully consider the costs associated with implementing and maintaining this software solution. Here are some of the main cost factors to keep in mind:

Licensing Costs for Microsoft Lync

One of the first things to consider when evaluating the cost of Microsoft Lync is the licensing fees. Depending on the needs of your organization, you may need to purchase licenses for individual users or as part of a suite. It's important to understand the different licensing options and their associated costs to ensure that you're getting the best value for your investment.

Infrastructure Costs for Microsoft Lync

In addition to licensing costs, you'll also need to consider the infrastructure costs associated with implementing Microsoft Lync. This may include purchasing additional hardware and software, upgrading existing infrastructure, and ensuring that your network is capable of supporting the software.

Implementation Costs for Microsoft Lync

Implementing Microsoft Lync can be a complex process, and you may need to enlist the assistance of third-party consultants or Microsoft partners to ensure that the deployment is successful. The cost of this assistance should also be factored into your overall budget.

Training Costs for Microsoft Lync

Once Microsoft Lync has been implemented, it's important to ensure that your employees are properly trained on how to use the software. This may require additional training costs and resources to ensure that everyone can effectively use the software.

Maintenance Costs for Microsoft Lync

Like any software solution, Microsoft Lync requires ongoing maintenance and support. This may include software updates, troubleshooting, and helpdesk support. It's important to consider these ongoing costs when evaluating the total cost of ownership for Microsoft Lync.

Integration Costs for Microsoft Lync

If you already use other Microsoft products, such as SharePoint or Exchange, integrating Microsoft Lync may require additional costs. This may include purchasing additional licenses or working with third-party vendors to ensure that the integration is successful.

Customization Costs for Microsoft Lync

If your organization has unique requirements for Microsoft Lync, customization and development costs should also be considered. This may require the assistance of third-party developers or Microsoft partners to ensure that the software meets your specific needs.

Hardware Costs for Microsoft Lync

In addition to software costs, you may also need to purchase additional hardware to support Microsoft Lync. This may include servers, storage, and networking equipment, depending on the size and scope of your deployment.

Cloud vs On-Premises Costs for Microsoft Lync

Organizations have the option to deploy Microsoft Lync either on-premises or in the cloud. The cost of each option should be carefully considered based on your specific needs and budget. Cloud deployments may offer cost savings in terms of hardware and infrastructure, but may come with additional licensing fees and ongoing maintenance costs.

Third-Party Add-On Costs for Microsoft Lync

Finally, it's important to consider any third-party add-ons and integrations that you may want to use with Microsoft Lync. These may require additional licensing fees or customization costs, depending on the specific solution.In conclusion, while Microsoft Lync can offer many benefits to organizations, it's important to carefully evaluate the associated costs before making a decision. By considering factors such as licensing fees, infrastructure costs, implementation costs, training costs, maintenance costs, integration costs, customization costs, hardware costs, and third-party add-on costs, you can make an informed decision about whether Microsoft Lync is the right solution for your organization, and ensure that you're prepared for the total cost of ownership.

The Cost of Microsoft Lync

A Brief Overview of Microsoft Lync

Microsoft Lync is a unified communication platform designed to provide a wide range of communication and collaboration tools. It allows users to make voice and video calls, send instant messages and emails, share files and screen, and hold online meetings.The platform is available in two versions: Lync Server, which is an on-premise solution, and Lync Online, which is a cloud-based service offered as part of the Office 365 suite.

The Cost of Lync Server

Lync Server is licensed on a per-user basis, with different editions available depending on the features required. The cost of Lync Server can vary depending on the number of users and the chosen edition.Here is a breakdown of the various editions and their associated costs:

Lync Server Standard Edition - $3,999 for the server license plus $31 per user
Lync Server Enterprise Edition - $8,499 for the server license plus $42 per user
Lync Server Plus CAL - $107 per user for additional features such as enterprise voice and conferencing

In addition to the licensing costs, there may be additional expenses for hardware, maintenance, and support. It is important to consider these factors when calculating the total cost of ownership for Lync Server.

The Cost of Lync Online

Lync Online is a subscription-based service that is included in certain Office 365 plans. The cost of Lync Online depends on the chosen plan and the number of users.Here are the available plans and their associated costs:

Office 365 Business Essentials - $5 per user per month
Office 365 Business Premium - $12.50 per user per month
Office 365 Enterprise E1 - $8 per user per month
Office 365 Enterprise E3 - $20 per user per month
Office 365 Enterprise E5 - $35 per user per month

It is worth noting that while Lync Online is a more affordable option compared to Lync Server, it may not offer the same level of customization and control.

In Conclusion

The cost of Microsoft Lync varies depending on the chosen version and plan. It is important to carefully consider the features required and the total cost of ownership before making a decision. However, with its powerful communication and collaboration tools, Microsoft Lync can be a valuable investment for any organization.

Closing Thoughts on Microsoft Lync Costs

Thank you for taking the time to read about the cost of Microsoft Lync. We hope this article has been informative, providing you with the necessary information to make an informed decision on whether or not Microsoft Lync is right for your business needs.

Microsoft Lync is a powerful communication tool that can improve productivity and collaboration within your organization. However, it's important to carefully consider the costs associated with implementing and maintaining the software.

As we've discussed, the cost of Microsoft Lync can vary widely depending on factors such as the size of your organization, your IT infrastructure, and the level of support and training you require.

It's important to work closely with a trusted Microsoft partner to understand your specific needs and develop a customized plan for implementing and maintaining Lync. This will help ensure that you get the most value from your investment while minimizing unnecessary costs.

While the initial cost of implementing Microsoft Lync may seem high, it's important to remember that this is an investment in the long-term success and productivity of your organization. By improving communication and collaboration among employees, you can increase efficiency, reduce errors, and ultimately drive growth and profitability.

Finally, we encourage you to take advantage of the many resources available to help you make informed decisions about Microsoft Lync. From online forums to expert consultants, there are many ways to get the support you need to succeed.

Thank you again for reading about the cost of Microsoft Lync. We wish you all the best as you explore this exciting communication tool and look forward to hearing about your success stories.