Blog | Continuant

Cisco HCS: The Advantages of a Cloud-Based Solution

Written by Matthew Unzen | March 27, 2019

A Cisco Hosted Collaboration Solution (HCS), is a cloud-based unified communications platform. It offers unique collaboration technologies using hosted and managed models. This solution will help Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM) users.

Replacing On-Premises Systems

Organizations have used on-premises Cisco technology for many years. These systems are what they're used to, so they don't feel the need to replace them. However, on-premises systems come with several problems a cloud-based solution can fix.

On-premises solutions have high hardware requirements. Cloud solutions, on the other hand, are very “hardware light." They usually require a single server to run the whole system.

Cisco HCS is operational expenditure as opposed to capital expenditure. While these costs add up over time, OPEX can be easier to budget and free up capital for other essential purchases.

Private, Public, and Hybrid Cloud

Cisco HCS is an example of a cloud collaboration solution for large businesses. It includes CUCM, Cisco Unity Connection, Cisco Jabber, Cisco Webex, and Webex Meetings. It's a solution that can be deployed in any type of cloud setup: public, private, or hybrid.

A public cloud solution is one that involves delivering IT services over the internet. While this offers the user less control over the system, its cost and complexity are low. This makes it a perfect fit for users on a budget.

Private cloud has a much higher cost. However, it comes with more control and flexibility. It's also much more secure. Cisco's cloud infrastructure helps mitigate threats on both the hardware and software.

A hybrid cloud solution combines both other cloud types in one. It's expensive and often more difficult to implement. However, it comes with both the flexibility of a public solution and the security of a private solution.

Cisco HCS can be scaled to fit any cloud type and the needs of any business. Its cloud-based PBX extends to a variety of different IP phones and soft clients to fit the needs of your users. They'll have access to voice and video calling, messaging, presence, and chat on any device. You'll also be able to add and remove users with ease.

Your customers will benefit from this change as well. A Cisco HCS can integrate with your contact center to help you achieve a greater level of customer care. You'll be able to create unique customer experiences across multiple platforms to meet their needs.

Continuant Services for Cisco

Continuant is a Cisco partner who will design, deploy, and manage your new solution. Our experts will assist in your migration and keep your on-premises systems running in the interim. We'll help your IT team to focus on strategic priorities rather than provisioning.

Cisco HCS along with Continuant's Managed Services will increase agility and help modernize your workplace. You'll be able to improve collaboration efficiency and seamlessly transition to the cloud.

Ready to improve your collaboration? Schedule a call with one of our experts today.

* Editor's Note: This article was originally published in March 2019 and has been revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.