Skype for Business vs Webex comparison

Webex and Skype for Business compete in the collaboration and communication software category. Webex holds an advantage in stability and ease of use, while Skype for Business excels in integration with Microsoft products.

Features: Webex offers screen sharing, application sharing, and whiteboard features known for quality and ease of use. It integrates well with tools like Outlook for video conferencing, webinars, and supports a high number of attendees. Skype for Business provides unified communication with strong instant messaging, audio, and video features, and seamless document sharing and scheduled meetings integration with Microsoft products.

Room for Improvement: Webex needs enhancement in connectivity, audio quality, and integration with non-Cisco systems, along with simplifying the user interface and chat functionality. Skype for Business requires improvements in audio quality, connectivity, and interoperability with non-Microsoft systems, as well as developing more collaborative tools similar to Microsoft Teams.

Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: Webex offers flexible deployment with public and hybrid cloud options. It is praised for technical support but criticized for slow response times during issues. Skype for Business deploys effectively in Microsoft environments and is noted for average technical support, with an emphasis on negotiating better service terms.

Pricing and ROI: Webex is priced higher than many competitors with complex licensing, especially challenging for smaller businesses, though it provides value when integrated with Cisco products. Skype for Business, often included in Microsoft Office 365, offers competitive pricing and a straightforward licensing model, particularly advantageous in Microsoft-centric organizations.