The VAR Guy

The VAR Guy knows big UC companies aren’t the only video players in town, and he knows interoperability is key to success in the videoconferencing/collaboration space. LifeSize is one of the vendors that understand that, and is now offering a solution that allows customers using Microsoft Office Communication Server 2007 R2 to integrate with LifeSize collaboration offerings. Read on for The VAR Guy’s HD-quality channel perspective …

LifeSize is promising “qualified interoperability” with Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2, enabling customers to utilize LifeSize’s videoconferencing capabilities either through its video systems or PCs. Further, LifeSize is working on interoperability with Lync, Microsoft’s next-generation communications and collaboration platform, which is expected later in 2011, according to the company.

Interoperability with Lync will enable both LifeSize and Microsoft partners and customers to formulate an easy way to upgrade from Microsoft Communication Server. Additionally, Logitech (LifeSize’s parent company) is creating a lineup of Lync-optimized headsets and webcams to use with the LifeSize technology.

LifeSize isn’t the only one jumping on the Lync bandwagon. On the heels of Microsoft’s unveiling of the new technology in November 2010, both Polycom and Cisco — and more recently, RADVISION — signed on to interoperate with Lync. Others are sure to follow, as Lync is gaining a reputation among the channel as a game-changer in the unified communications and collaboration space.

The VAR Guy sees much more movement as UCC continues to mature and vendors continue down the interoperability path. In fact, our resident blogger sees LifeSize’s and others’ moves to interoperate as a fundamental technology shift that we — and the channel — would be unwise to ignore.

Sign up for The VAR Guy’s Weekly Newsletter, Webcasts and Resource Center. Follow The VAR Guy via RSS, Facebook and Twitter. Follow experts at VARtweet. Read The VAR Guy’s editorial disclosures here.

Read More About This Topic

• Microsoft Lync: More Unified Communications Partner Momentum?
• Logitech Partners with Jabra for UC-Enabled Accessories
• Alteva Unveils Cloud-Based UC Certification for Partners
• Unified Communications: More in Store for Channel in 2011
• Unified Communications: Intermedia Reports Strong Hosted PBX Momentum