Following a successful pilot programme in the US, Polycom will bring Video as a Service (VaaS) to the UK in partnership with distributor Imago Group.
Imago will be the first to market with the Polycom Powered subscription-based cloud video service RealPresence Cloud Video Meeting Services. It will also enhance its VaaS-t cloud video service.
“We’ve listened to our customers, and we recognise that in today’s business environment, organisations need to be flexible, both in terms of work styles and IT services. That’s why we have rolled out our VaaS offering in the UK, after a successful launch in North America,” says Glynn Jones, VP Advanced Technology Group, Polycom.
“The scalability and flexibility offered by software in a virtualised environment, coupled with a subscription-based pricing model is a great option for many of our customers.”
Through the partnership with Imago and its VaaS-t service, Polycom is able to offer a set of always-on virtual meeting rooms or VMRs connecting a variety of voice and video endpoints. It is priced either by participant or by the minute.
Ian Vickerage, managing director of Imago Group says that while video as a service isn’t new, the VaaS-t from Polycom changes the game: “Up until now end users have had to choose from services available from suppliers with limited financial resources and stability.
“Polycom users can be totally confident that this service will be compatible with their existing video estate whilst accessing support for their video endpoints and video service from the same supplier…this project will bring the business benefits of videoconferencing to a whole new range of organisations.”
In order to provide the best opportunities for partners, Polycom offers RealPresence Cloud as a wholesale, white-labeled solution. This allows the channel to bring their cloud video service to market quickly.
Says Jones: “Partners are a critical component of Polycom’s success. Together, we serve a diverse customer base with unique challenges to solve. Our combined efforts help them succeed, and we will continue to drive growth and broader adoption of Polycom’s video, voice and content collaboration solutions.”
