Forum Discussion
Skype for Business Server vs. Online
There will be some announcements about the next version of Skype for Business both on-premises and in the cloud at Microsoft Ignite in late September.
As for why on-premises vs. cloud really comes down to what you want out of it and where you are located.
For example: if you want to make phone called over the PSTN using Skype for Business and don't live in a country where PSTN Calling is available with Skype for Business Online - then you'll need some on-premises infrastructure in the way of Cloud Connector Edition or a Skype for Business Server set up in hybrid form.
Another example: if you want contact centre integrate, call recording, attendant consoles, or any number of third party solutions - then you'll need to be on-premises.
You can see a comparison of Skype for Business features between Server and Online here: https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/skype-for-business-online-service-description.aspx
Ultimately if you're still not sure then I'd suggest speaking to a Microsoft account manager or technical specialist, or local Skype for Business partner who can help you decide.
Loryan Strant wrote:
Another example: if you want contact centre integrate, call recording, attendant consoles, or any number of third party solutions - then you'll need to be on-premises.
This isn't really so if you are prepared to change your call centre, most Skype based call centre apps can be federated to Skype Online e.g. Anywhere365. On premise is for where you have requirements to interface at a SIP level with exisiting services, typically for co-existence.
- Valid point, but region comes into it as well. as for Anywhere365 specifically there is no localised support - so it's a very big risk for anyone who chooses to use it.