Cloud comms firm 8x8 has launched its new 8x8 Express solution, a unified communications system designed expressly for smaller companies that may not have the IT staff to deploy and run it.
The company said that the online set-up takes just a few minutes and requires no implementation services. The service gives users unlimited calling to the US and Canada; HD video conferencing; business messaging, including text messaging and group chats; and intelligent call routing. Features are all accessible from desktop and mobile applications on both Android and iOS.
The comms platform also includes the recently launched 8x8 Meetings. This allows teams to collaborate with HD video conferencing that includes instant screen sharing, accessible on the same mobile and desktop apps used for calling and SMS. Users can join meetings directly from compatible browsers without downloading software. 8x8 Meetings is in early access now for all new 8x8 Express and X Series customers on X2 packages and above.
Other features of 8x8 Express include the following:
- Call forwarding, auto attendant and ring groups
- Voicemail
- Moving existing businesses' numbers to 8x8
- HD voice and video
- Compatibility with multiple Poly desk and conference phones
- Integration with Office 365, Outlook Calendar and Google Calendar
- Self-administered management tool
Simplified Onboarding
Amy Lind, research manager at IDC, said that 8x8 Express will be appealing to emerging businesses that don’t have an IT staff, yet want a full-featured communications solution.
“The onboarding experience is designed to eliminate friction and headaches, thereby facilitating the adoption of a professional communications system for entrepreneurs, start-ups and smaller sized organisations,” she said.
Dejan Deklich, chief product officer at 8x8, said that for smaller businesses juggling free-trials or using a personal phone number “limits the ability to create a consistent, seamless experience for customers”.
Dejan Deklich[/caption]
