Unified Communication Platforms There are many different types of unified communication platforms businesses can choose from. The three we will be going over will be: Sharepoint, Webex, and Skype. These programs are designed for collaborative use and being able to connect and share information with one another. Most of these programs can be integrated with the Office 365 suites, where others are based off their own servers. Skype is a easy to use collaborative software which offers an array of different tools to get connected. One of Skype’s main features is its VOIP and video chatting capabilities. Skype for business is a great tool to have handy for those who want to organize conference calls from the comfort of their home or office. Being a VOIP program means we can make phone calls using Skype over the internet. Not only is Skype great for conference calls it can also be used to Instant message, video call, screen share, and transfer files. Having an arsenal of tools at the fingertips of a business can make collaborative work a cinch. Lastly, Skype for Business is able to be integrated in with Office 365. This makes appointment setting available to any contact found within Outlook. Scheduling has never been so easy. Next we will talk about Webex. Webex is a program of its own and similar to Skype. Webex offers VOIP and video messaging making conference calls easy to do. One thing that sets Webex apart from its competitors is the way it handles it’s collaborative functions. Webex has special features that allow its participants the capabilities to share screens side by side, and even take turns back and forth. This unique experience can make projects flow smoothly. Being backed by Cisco guarantees file sharing will remain secure on said dedicated Webex servers. Lastly, Webex’s interface can be accessed remotely or via the internet making it an ideal tool for those who need these tools on the go. Sharepoint brings a different approach, when comparing this platform to Skype and Webex. SharePoint is a great platform for large businesses that store their documents online. Having OneDrive is a Cloud based service that makes file backup and storage capable company wide. Sharepoint is also integrated with Office 365 making it an ideal solution for collaborative work with companies that use Office suites. Unlike Skype and Webex, Sharepoint is not primarily a VOIP platform. Sharepoint is more of an online community for its employees. Within SharePoint, data can be accessed and forum-like posts can be made and shared throughout. In conclusion, all three platforms have their benefits and unique perks for business purposes. Skype, is very user friendly and has all the basic needs for any business. Webex is a small step up from Skype, with its unique collaborative capabilities. Harnessing the power to share screens in a unique way, making training very doable from its platform. Sharepoint is more focused in collection of data to be uploaded and shared throughout a large scale company. Working as an integrated community for its users.

References
(n.d.). Retrieved April 9, 2016, from http://www.skype.com/en/business/

(n.d.). Retrieved April 9, 2016, from https://www.webex.com/faqs.html

(n.d.). Retrieved April 9, 2016, from https://products.office.com/en-us/SharePoint/sharepoint-2013-overview-collaboration-software-features