The Importance of Enhancing Your Video Conferencing Setup with Logitech Select 

In today’s fast-paced business landscape, effective communication and collaboration are essential. With teams often spread across different locations, video conferencing has become indispensable for maintaining seamless connections. However, the complexity and potential pitfalls associated with video conferencing systems can sometimes undermine the very efficiency they are meant to bring. This is where Logitech Select steps in, offering a comprehensive service plan designed to fortify businesses reliant on video conferencing solutions.

Safeguarding Your Conferencing Investment 

Logitech Select presents various benefits that address the challenges associated with video conferencing, providing much-needed assurance for organizations of all sizes. Here’s why integrating Logitech Select into your video conferencing setup is a prudent decision:

24/7 Expert Support 

With Logitech Select, you can access 24/7 support from experienced Logitech experts. This means that no matter when or where a technical issue arises, you can get help quickly and easily. This can help to minimize downtime and maximize productivity, allowing you to focus on your business goals rather than troubleshooting problems. 

Dedicated Service Manager*

Each Logitech Select customer is assigned a dedicated service manager who is familiar with their business and its unique needs. This personalized assistance can help expedite problem resolution and ensure your video conferencing system is always up and running. 

Swift Product Replacement 

Logitech Select can help you get a replacement if equipment fails quickly and easily. This can help to minimize disruptions to your workflow and ensure that your video conferencing needs are always met. 

The Importance of Enhancing Your Video Conferencing Setup with Logitech Select

Accelerated RMA

Logitech Select also offers accelerated Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) services. This means the process is expedited if a product needs to be repaired or replaced. This can help you get back up and running as quickly as possible.  

The Importance of Enhancing Your Video Conferencing Setup with Logitech Select

Onsite Spares**

Logitech Select can also provide onsite spares for your video conferencing equipment. This means you will always have backup equipment available in case of a hardware failure. This can help to prevent downtime and keep your video conferencing system running smoothly. 

Advanced Insights and Analytics

Logitech Select also provides advanced insights and analytics. This data can help you optimize your video conferencing experience and ensure you get the most out of your system. For example, you can use this data to identify usage patterns and diagnose potential issues before they cause problems. 

The Importance of Enhancing Your Video Conferencing Setup with Logitech Select

A Holistic Investment 

Logitech Select is a holistic investment that can help businesses of all sizes get the most out of their video conferencing systems. Logitech Select can help companies harness the full potential of video conferencing by mitigating downtime, reducing technical disruptions, and offering proactive support. The savings in time, resources, and peace of mind are undeniable, making Logitech Select an indispensable asset for any organization committed to effective communication and collaboration. 

To learn more about Logitech Select and how it can benefit your business, contact a Call One, Inc. team member. 

Call One, Inc. is a woman-owned business that has been helping businesses do their business better since 1987. We specialize in professional-grade audio and video solutions for personal and team workspaces. We offer pre-and post-sales support, and we are committed to providing real people and real service with unbiased recommendations. 

Here are the three reasons why customers choose Call One, Inc.: 

  • Specificity: We focus on professional-grade audio and video solutions, so you can be confident that you are getting the best possible products and services. 
  • Credibility: We have been in business for over 35 years, and we have a reputation for providing high-quality products and services. 
  • Value: We offer a wide range of complementary solutions and services, so you can get everything you need from a single source. 

We are committed to helping you do your business better. How can we help?  

*Available with purchase of a Logitech Select service plan for 50 or more rooms. 

 **One onsite spare kit for every 50 rooms is covered under a Logitech Select Plan. 

Consumer vs. Business Audio and Video Devices

Consumer vs. Business Audio and Video Devices 

Regularly I’m asked to review a variety of audio and video devices, including consumer products. I often respond that the Call One, Inc. YouTube Channel focuses on solutions designed for use with business communications and collaboration platforms from Microsoft, Zoom, Cisco, 8×8, RingCentral, etc.  

Microsoft Teams Devices banner 2

Packaging, Warranty, & Multi-Connectivity 

Most people don’t realize there are differences between consumer and business audio and video devices. Some differences are subtle, like the packaging to support mass deployments and extended warranty periods. Another difference is the inclusion of a Bluetooth dongle with UC Bluetooth headsets to improve connection stability, audio quality, and compatibility and provide remote call control. Leading device manufacturers also offer multi-connectivity solutions to support a broad range of use cases.  

Consumer Business Audio Video Devices

Compatible and Certified 

Business audio and video device manufacturers work directly with leading business communications and collaboration platform providers to develop compatible and certified solutions, so end-users have a great experience with setup, use, and performance.  

Consumer Business Audio Video Devices

Device Management Software 

A critical difference that has become increasingly important in today’s remote and hybrid work world is device management software. Businesses spend thousands to millions of dollars on audio and video devices annually to empower and enable their employees to be productive wherever they are working. How do business leaders know where the devices are and if they are being used? Device management software allows IT teams to remotely provision, monitor, troubleshoot, and manage devices.  

Depending on the brand and suite of products, some device management software offers analytics and actionable insights that can be highly beneficial for understanding user adoption, call analytics, room usage, and more! 

Poly Lens devices Consumer Business Audio Video Devices

Organizations need to consider developing audio and video device standards that provide device management software from these leading global brands:  

Authorized Resellers 

Authorized Resellers like Call One, Inc. can help your organization select business-grade audio and video devices that the appropriate software can remotely manage.  

Call One, Inc. is a Nationally Certified Women’s Business Enterprise (WBENC) and Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB), helping people do their business better since 1987. We are an authorized reseller of Poly, Jabra, Logitech, EPOS, Yealink, and other leading audio and video device brands. Contact us if you want more information or schedule a meeting to discuss your device management needs.  

Device Management Software Video Resources: 

Call One, Inc Partners with SonicCloud to bring Revolutionary Hearing Personalization Solutions to Today’s Hybrid Workplace

(Cape Canaveral, FL) Call One, Inc. is partnering with SonicCloud to provide a transformative software solution designed for businesses to offer their employees a better hearing experience regardless of an individual’s hearing challenges. SonicCloud is a customizable solution for employees who need assistance with any level of hearing loss, dramatically reduces “Zoom fatigue” on conference calls, and improves clarity for those who have difficulty with speech intelligibility. 

The CDC estimates that 12% of the workforce has a hearing impairment, and according to studies, the impact on productivity annually due to hearing challenges is substantial. Given the “new normal” of remote and hybrid work, the problem is exacerbated for the hard-of-hearing. Moreover, work environments at the office and home are often not ideal for a clear conversation because of background noise, reverb, and other factors.   

“Our partnership with SonicCloud opens up opportunities to help our clients provide an easy to implement solution to help their employees fully participate in collaborative work. It is a game-changer for anyone who suffers from any level of hearing loss,”

Call One, Inc. CEO Dawn Mays
Dawn Mays
Call One, Inc. CEO Dawn Mays

SonicCloud’s CEO, JC Curelop, added, “We are thrilled to be partnering with Call One as they clearly understand the challenges companies big and small face with communication in the modern workplace. We look forward to working with them to help benefit all of their customers and level the playing field for hard-of-hearing employees, destigmatize hearing difficulties, and achieve hearing inclusivity with Call One’s clients.”   

SonicCloud’s hardware agnostic software-based solution includes proprietary speech intelligibility algorithms which allow any user to get crisp, clear, personalized audio, targeted precisely to their specific hearing ability, much like the right pair of eyeglasses – but for your ears. The results are highly impactful. The patented technology also provides a range of presets for a quick, user-friendly setup.  

Call One, Inc. was founded in 1987 as a telephony headset vendor for 911 dispatch and business call centers nationwide. Today Call One is focused on providing and supporting Video Collaboration Solutions, Enterprise and Contact Center Headsets, Samsung Enterprise Mobility Solutions, and UVC Disinfection Solutions to SMB, Mid-Market, Large Enterprise, Education, Healthcare, and Government. Call One, Inc. is a Nationally Certified Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE).  

SonicCloud is a hardware-agnostic, personalized audio software technology company whose mission is to provide hearing accessibility solutions to the hundreds of millions worldwide suffering from the entire range of hearing loss. The company is lauded by hearing industry experts, Fortune 500 companies, and everyday consumers finally experiencing relief from their day-to-day hearing challenges thanks to its innovative, 21st-century approach to sound personalization. 

Consumer vs Business Headsets

Consumer vs. Business Headsets

I strongly recommend you utilize professional, business-grade headsets versus consumer models when using UC platforms from Zoom, Microsoft, Cisco, RingCentral, 8×8, etc. This recommendation extends to all personal and group audio and video devices, but I will focus on headsets to keep it short. 

I have tested leading consumer headset models, including the Apple AirPods, AfterShokz Opencomm, Sony WH-1000XM4, Microsoft Surface Headphones 2, Bose QuietComfort 45, and others. (Click on the hyperlinks to watch the test videos) 

Many of the models I listed will pair and provide an audio path. Over time, I experienced instability with the Bluetooth connection, mainly with the transmit/input audio. Most consumer Bluetooth headsets are designed primarily for listen-only. And I can’t lie, some of them sound fantastic! Especially the Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bose QuietComfort 45. The other challenge is the lack of call control. Meaning, you can’t answer/end calls from the headset. You must use your mouse. And in some cases, I had challenges muting the microphone. Other times, I experienced being able to hear but not be heard and vice versa when in various UC platform calls and meetings. 

These consumer models can be incredibly frustrating for the IT teams that have to manage the Help Desk Tickets for these consumer headset issues. 

Consumer vs. Business Headsets

Business headset models are compatible, optimized, and certified to work across all the major communications and collaboration platforms used in business. Leading brands like Jabra, Poly, Logitech, EPOS, and Yealink work closely with the platform providers to develop headsets that function and perform optimally in their environments.  

Organizations should develop new audio and video device standards to support this new normal of hybrid work, remote work, work from home, and work from anywhere. Certified headsets meet a broad range of requirements set forth by the platform providers like Microsoft to provide the best possible end-user and administrator experience. One of the first questions asked when seeking help from Microsoft is whether or not you are using a certified device. Contact us! We can help your business select the appropriate headsets.  

In a previous blog post, Devices Make the Experience; I shared these critical differences between consumer and business devices:  

  • Engineered for different uses 
  • Sound quality 
  • Call quality 
  • Connectivity 
  • Packaging 
  • Warranty 
  • Pre-sales Support 
  • Global Support 
  • Ongoing Commitment 
  • Incentives 
  • Device Management Software

A frequently asked question is, ‘Why do I need a USB Dongle?’ I answer the question in this blog and video. The dongle is a crucial difference between consumer and business Bluetooth headsets for use with a computer. For example, Microsoft has the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2, which is their consumer model. The Microsoft Surface Headphones 2+ is their business model certified for Microsoft Teams and includes the Microsoft Surface USB Link. Watch this video playlist comparing the Microsoft Surface Headphones 2 and Surface Headphones 2+.  

The last thing to note is where you buy these devices matters. In my blog, Why buy Certified Devices from Authorized Resellers, I share the potential risks of buying through unauthorized sources. It’s best to go through an Authorized Reseller in your region. Authorized Resellers like Call One, Inc. agree to adhere to manufacturers’ policies to ensure customers receive quality products and services designed for their geographic territory. Authorized Resellers undergo extensive education, training, and certification to meet the manufacturers’ requirements to position the appropriate solutions based on your organization’s use case.  

In today’s “work from anywhere” landscape, the headset needs will vary. Contact us! Call One, Inc., and its partners can help identify headsets that align best with your team members’ work style and workspace.  

Device Management Software Panal

Device Management Software Panel Discussion

The global pandemic accelerated many organizations’ transition to remote work models. Heading into our second year of living in a continued state of uncertainty, organizations have made significant changes to how their employees communicate and collaborate. Cloud-based communications are being adopted and used. Business and IT leaders are developing new audio and video device standards to support the new normal of hybrid work or permanent remote work models.

The Challenge

How do organizations deploy, monitor, and manage devices for a dispersed workforce? How do organizations know if their employees are utilizing approved devices? How can IT teams better support a remote workforce and mitigate potential issues and reduce help desk ticket submissions?

The Solution

Device Management Software. The leading device manufacturers have developed device management software that is free or as a paid subscription. They also offer different delivery methods.

The Panelists:

The Questions:

  • Please provide a brief overview of your solution and share a real-world example of how it has benefited a client.
  • What’s the difference between enterprise and individual desktop software? Do they need both?
  • One of the objections IT has for not supporting device management software is “security.” Security is certainly a legitimate concern, does your software have built-in security measures? What is your response to IT teams who express security concerns?
  • What do you see in the future for device management software?
Jabra Direct Xpress

Watch the video to hear the complete discussion.

Question #1: Please provide a brief overview of your solution and share a real-world example of how it has benefited a client.

Each panelist provides real-world examples of how device management software has benefited clients.

Marty with Poly shares how their software helped a large school district in southern California deploy tens of thousands of Poly Studio USB devices.

Trevor of Logitech shares how their software helped a large insurance company manage their meeting room devices remotely. This saved time and the need for IT team members to go room to room to ensure the devices were up and running.

Scott of EPOS shares several insurance institutions in Connecticut have been doing a hard phone removal. They utilize their software to ensure that headset firmware is updated and in high turnover scenarios, ensuring they are not repeating headsets.

Tim with Jabra shares how a multinational agriculture company in the Midwest uses their software to mass deploy updates to more than 25,000 devices including USB headsets, DECT wireless headsets, and video devices.

To hear their complete stories, watch the video!

What EPOS is Seeing in This New Normal

Question #2: What’s the difference between enterprise and individual desktop software? Do they need both?

Each partner offers device management software. The software allows IT teams to deploy, monitor, and manage audio and video devices. There are also desktop apps that provide end-users the ability to customize their device experience based on their preferences.

Watch the video to hear from the experts the differences between their enterprise software and the desktop app.

Question #3: One of the objections IT has for not supporting device management software is “security.” Security is certainly a legitimate concern, does your software have built-in security measures? What is your response to IT teams who express security concerns?

Each panelist expresses that security is a concern, and they have developed their software with that in mind. They are more than happy to share their certifications and allow your IT teams to test their software. Some also have white papers on privacy and security they are pleased to share.

Watch the video to hear their complete remarks regarding security and the measures they take.  

Question #4: What do you see in the future for device management software?

Each panelist shares their thoughts on the future of device management software and devices as a whole. Some mention “smarter” people are working that on that.

Watch the video to hear their complete comments.

Conclusion

Almost two years have passed, and we’re all still working and living with the pandemic. It’s safe to say work will never return to a pre-pandemic state. The exciting part is how quickly new work norms have accelerated. EPOS, Jabra, Logitech, and Poly are global leaders for multiple reasons. Key reasons are their ability to service and support customers on a global scale. Additionally, they are constantly innovating and developing new technology and devices to help people do their business better regardless of where they work. Business and IT leaders need to look at these new work norms and develop device standards based on their employees’ work styles and workspaces. If you would like to learn more or set up a proof of concept or pilot with any of these leading partners, contact us! And bring it all together by implementing device management software, so team members are more productive.

Which Poly Studio P Series is best for you? Poly Studio P5, P15, or P21?

The Poly Studio P Series provide organizations with personal video conferencing device options to support their multiple workstyles from entry-level workers to top executives. Combined with Poly Lens cloud management software and you have a robust solution for IT to easily deploy, monitor, and manage from anywhere.

Poly Studio P Series P5

Remote, In the Office, Hybrid 

When it comes to personal audio and video devices, one size does NOT fit all. Different workers need different technology depending on how and where they work. Today people work remotely, in the office, or a hybrid model with a mix of locations. Workers in a fixed quiet location can benefit from an all-in-one solution like the Poly Studio P21 or Poly Studio P15. Someone working in a shared noisy environment may benefit from an external webcam like the Poly Studio P5 and headset with ANC speakers and a strong noise-canceling mic like the Poly Voyager Focus 2 Series. The Poly Studio P Series work with the video apps you already know and are Zoom and Microsoft Teams certified. 

The goal for business and IT leaders is to identify the right solutions for their workforce based on workstyles and personal workspaces. In this blog, we’ll focus on the Poly Studio P Series Personal Video Conferencing Devices.  

Poly Studio P5

The Poly Studio P5 webcam is great for home, office, private, or shared spaces. Coupled with a headset or speakerphone and you have a complete, portable, audio/video solution. The P5 is designed to attach to an existing computer or laptop monitor and connect via USB. The monitor clamp can be removed to mount on a standard tripod to provide greater positioning flexibility. It has an integrated privacy shutter, status LED light fin that indicates call and mute state.  The Poly Studio P5 also has a built-in USB-A port to connect a wireless headset adapter like the BT600 or new BT700. It’s designed for personal use and offers a built-in single directional microphone and 80° DFOV. See the Poly Studio P5 in action in this video

The Poly Studio P5 Kits are a great value and option for mass deployments or for outfitting new hires. A single SKU includes the Poly Studio P5 webcam and one of four audio devices: a Poly Sync 20 speakerphone, corded Blackwire 3210, corded Blackwire 3325, or a wireless Voyager 4220 UC! Learn more about the Poly Studio P5 Kits here!  

Poly Studio P15

The Poly Studio P15 personal video bar includes a 4K camera, integrated privacy shutter, speakers, multi-microphone array, and two USB 2.0 Type-A ports. This is a great solution for the executive who wants a premium audio and video experience. With NoiseBlockAI and Acoustic Fence technologies, the P15 can be used in either your home or dedicated office. A simple USB connection to your PC or Mac will transform your video conferencing experience. See the Poly Studio P15 in action to include NoiseBlockAI and Acoustic Fence demo in this video

Poly Studio P21

The Poly Studio P21 personal meeting display is truly an all-in-one video conferencing device that is easy to set up and use. This single device is packed with features and functions that include a 21-inch display, camera, microphone, speakers, lighting, wireless phone charger, and can be customized via the Poly Lens App. Take a look at all the available options and settings in this video! This is a great option if you want an additional display that includes all the components necessary for a high-quality video call. Additionally, there are two USB-A ports to connect a corded or wireless Poly headset if you need to take the conversation private. The Poly Studio P21 is a good fit for top executives who prefer a clean, simple solution that allows them to look and sound their best.  

Which Poly Studio P Series is best for you by Workspace


Poly Studio P5 Webcam

  • Home or Office 
  • Private or Shared Workspace 
  • Cubicle or Hot Desk 

Poly Studio P15 Personal Video Bar

  • Home or Office 
  • Private Workspace 

Poly Studio P21 Personal Meeting Display

  • Home or Office 
  • Private Workspace 

Keep Employee Devices Up, Running, and Ready for Action 

Poly Lens makes collaboration better for your employees no matter where they work or the compatible device they choose. You get better line of sight on device health and adoption rates and you may also see fewer help-desk tickets. IT can quickly get started remotely provisioning, monitoring, and troubleshooting from a single pane of glass. And since Poly Lens is cloud-based, it’ll scale with you, maintaining security without all that heavy overhead of traditional IT management. Check out this interview video with a Principal Solutions Architect at Poly where we discuss what Poly Lens is and how it helps organizations.  

Control Your Experience 

Poly Lens Desktop is a single app for customizing your compatible personal devices to how you work. Stay up to date with the latest software and gain access to product guides, setup, and support, right at your fingertips. And with built-in wellness and nature sounds, you’ll have better focus and peace of mind, so you’ll look and sound great.  

How Can Call One, Inc. Help? 

Hybrid work is the new normal. Business leaders need to develop a work-from-anywhere strategy that gives their employees best-in-class solutions. Call One, Inc. can help bring your vision to life, allowing teams to connect, collaborate and perform at their best. We work with all the leading device manufacturers and are constantly testing for ourselves the latest technology. We can help identify the right solution whether your team members work from home, in the office, or on the go. Contact a Call One, Inc. solutions expert today! Watch the Poly Studio P Series Comparison Video below!

Connect 2 Headsets 1 PC

Why You Can’t Use 2 USB Headsets on 1 PC

One of the most frequently asked questions comes in many forms but ultimately, the end objective is the same. Can you connect two USB headsets to a single computer so both headsets receive/transmit audio simultaneously for training? The answer is, “No”. We have written a couple blogs previously (Is there a Training-Y for USB Headsets? and Training-Y for USB Headsets in Softphone environment?) as well as put out a video titled How To Connect Two USB Headsets to a PC for Training!. The challenge being the limitations of the computer only allowing you to select one Output and Input audio path. The same is true when using a collaboration app like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, 8×8, etc. You can only select one audio source. In video below we show you using a USB splitter we purchased online and a Poly Blackwire 8225 and Jabra BIZ 2400 II USB Headset.

This blog is revisiting the topic of training two people via one computer for voice calls, especially as organizations explore return to office plans.

Currently there are four options organizations can select:

Option 1 – Two QD Headsets + Training-Y + QD to USB Adapter

Poly, Jabra, EPOS, and JPL all offer a QD Headsets along with Training-Y cables and QD to USB Adapters.

QD headset options by brand include:

Training-Y’s by brand

QD to USB Adapters by brand

Option 2 – Two QD Headsets + USB Training-Y for QD Headsets

This is a much cleaner option and currently only two brands offer this option, that I am aware of.

Option 3 – Conference Feature on DECT Wireless Headsets

Option 4 – Cloud Communications Platform Call Monitoring

Cloud communications platforms today offer Call Monitoring features that many include:

  • Listen: Listen to a call without the parties being aware.
  • Whisper: Speak to a user in a call without other parties being aware.
  • Barge: Join a call and speak to all parties.
  • Take over: Take over the call from another user.

Call One, Inc. is a Trusted Advisor and can help you select and appropriate UCaaS or CCaaS platform that aligns with your business goals and objectives to include 8×8 and Zoom. Contact us to learn more! In the video below, we physically connect two USB headsets via USB Splitter we purchased online to show that you can’t select more than one device for audio source.

Poly Studio P5 Kits

Poly Studio P5 Kits – Great for Hybrid Work

The Poly Studio P5 Kits are a great option for Hybrid Work, Remote Work, or Work from Anywhere! Organizations everywhere have implemented video conferencing to stay connected to their team members, partners, and customers. In our post-COVID world, video meetings will continue to be a part of the overall business communications and collaboration strategy moving forward.

What business leaders are looking for

Business leaders are looking for solutions to video enable their individual employees regardless of where they are working. The solution needs to support these requirements:

  • Compatible with all major video collaboration platforms and applications to include Microsoft Teams and Zoom.
  • Easy to set up and use
  • High quality audio and video device
  • Satisfy various workstyles
  • Easy to order and deploy

Poly Studio P5 Kits – A range of options for any workstyle

Poly has done a great job of creating a solution that helps satisfy all the above and then some with their Poly Studio P5 Kits. These kits include everything you need for a great audio and video experience. All the components come in a single box which makes it easy to order and deploy. And because the Studio P5 webcam includes an integrated USB-A port, all you need is a single USB port on your PC to connect both webcam and audio device. Take a look at this video that provides a complete overview and audio and video quality test of the Poly Studio P5 Webcam.

There are currently four different kits designed to support a broad range of users and workstyles. The packaging is important. IT deployment teams and individual employees receive everything they need thoughtfully packaged in a single box! This makes it easy to order and deploy without having to mix and match different products. This makes it easy for users to set up, with one common, integrated set of instructions. As an added benefit, the wireless headset and speakerphone bundles can connect the wireless USB adapter right to the Studio P5 webcam!

Let’s take at review the four Studio P5 Kits:

Poly Studio P Series

MSRP $149.95 – Poly Studio P5 kit with Blackwire 3210 – The Studio P5 with Blackwire 3210 is ideal for users who need a professional quality experience at an affordable price. The single-ear design of the headset is ideal for multi-taskers who want one ear free to hear what else is going on in their environment, while still getting great call quality.

Poly Studio P Series

MSRP $259.95 Poly Studio P5 kit with Blackwire 3325 – The Studio P5 with Blackwire 3325 is ideal for users who prefer a stereo experience so they can fully focus on the meeting, while staying at an affordable price.

Poly Studio P Series

MSRP $259.95 Poly Studio P5 kit with Sync 20+ – The Studio P5 with Sync 20+ is ideal for users who don’t want to wear anything at all. It delivers a premium personal speakerphone experience with a wireless connection that also goes directly to the camera and is ideal for enclosed workspaces.

Poly Studio P Series

MSRP $269.95 Poly Studio P5 kit with Voyager 4220 UC – The Studio P5 with Voyager 4220 UC is ideal for users who value a wireless stereo headset experience. This allows them to maintain a great calling experience with the freedom to move around, unattached to any cables. The Bluetooth adapter for the headset connects directly to the Studio P5 camera to simplify setup and free up USB ports on the laptop.

Poly Lens Desktop

Poly Lens Desktop is a single app for customizing your supported Poly personal devices. In the desktop app you will have access to:

Insights – Check your device usage and workstation connectivity.

Poly Studio P5

Health and WellnessYou can enable Soundscapes that include Mountain Ranch, Gentle Ocean, or Babbling Brook sounds to create a soothing environment to keep distractions at bay. Get reminders to hydrate, take vision breaks and rest. Play soundscapes to improve focus.

Best PracticesOptimize your camera and learn how to make your workspace more ergonomic.

Poly SupportExperiencing issues? Let Poly help.

Poly Studio P5 Kits

Customize Your Personal Poly Device

Overview – Get status update of device.

Settings – Customize the multiple settings depending on device.

Support – Access Quick Start Guide, User Guide, Device Info & Logs, Contact Support

Poly Studio P5 Kits are a great Value

Personally, I believe Poly has a created an awesome solution that aligns well with the current landscape. Business and IT leaders are actively searching for solid performing, easy to set up and use, personal audio and video device solutions they can deploy across their organization to support multiple uses cases and budgets. Poly has provided that at a great value. Check out the savings you get by going with a Poly Studio P5 Kit vs buying each item separately.

Poly Studio P5 webcam $129 + Blackwire 3210 $44.95 = $173.95 – P5 Kit $149.95 = $24 Savings

Poly Studio P5 webcam $129 + Blackwire 3325 $84.95 = $213.95 – P5 Kit $179.95 = $34 Savings

Poly Studio P5 webcam $129 + Sync 20+ $199.95 = $328.95 – P5 Kit $259.95 = $69 Savings

Poly Studio P5 webcam $129 + Voyager 4220 UC $239.95 = $368.95 – P5 Kit $269.95 = $99 Savings

Poly Solutions

Poly offers complete solutions that include headsets, speakerphones, video solutions, conference and desktop phones, software, and services to support small to global enterprise customers. If you would like to learn more about Poly Solutions, contact us!

See the Poly Studio P5 Kit with Voyager 4220 UC Video!

Want to see what you get and how it’s packaged? Watch the video below where I do an unboxing and quick audio and mic test.

Questions to ask when selecting audio and video devices for Hybrid Work

As businesses settle into the new normal, some are adopting hybrid and flexible work models where teams and departments split between working remotely and working in office. Models will vary depending on organization.

Due to the massive surge in demand for USB audio and video devices the first few months of the pandemic, established leading brands had a hard time keeping up. Many organizations and people purchased audio and video devices from lesser-known brands and vendors.

Companies are now beginning to establish audio and video device standards after a year of dealing with “whatever was in stock”. Supply Chain is ramping back up and the leaders in the personal business audio and video device space have product flowing once again.

Organizations are looking for high-quality devices that are durable, reliable, easy to set up and use, and are compatible across the major business communications and collaboration platforms. Some IT Teams are also looking into device management software to help them monitor and manage devices remotely.

When it comes to selecting audio and video devices for your team members, it is critical to understand the individual users’ role and their environments. Here are some questions you should be asking:

  • Where will they be working? In the office? At home? A combination?
  • What are the noise levels? Quiet, standard Office, Loud? Check out our What’s the Decibel Level Blog and Video.
  • What will they be connecting to? Desk phone (brand & model), Computer, Mobile device, a combination of those, other?
  • If computer (Windows or MacOS, USB-A or USB-C), what communications and collaboration platforms are being used? What is the primary voice platform? Check out this blog and video on What’s the difference between UC and MS Headsets!
  • Is their setup the same in their home as their office? If not, what are the differences?
  • Will they get a set of audio and video devices for each location or are they expected to transport to and from home and office?
  • If at home and their audio or video device breaks or quits working, what is the expectation? Are there plans to supply a secondary or backup device?
  • Do they have ample USB ports?
  • DECT and Bluetooth wireless headsets provide connectivity flexibility and the benefit of mobility. What’s the difference between DECT and Bluetooth and which should you select? Check out this blog and video!
  • Do your IT teams need the ability to monitor and manage devices? Device manufacturers like Poly, Logitech, Jabra and others offer device management software solutions
Jabra Direct Xpress Selecting Devices for Hybrid Work

Authorized partners like Call One, Inc. with over 34 years of experience and a nationally certified Women’s Business Enterprise and Woman Owned Small Business can help narrow down your audio and video device choices. We work hand in hand with all the leading brands to include Poly, Jabra, Logitech, Yealink, JPL, EPOS, and more. Together we can develop customized solutions for your teams wherever they work. You can also take advantage of our Agent in a Box service and have the required components packed in one box delivered to the office or to individual residential addresses nationwide.

Contact us to schedule a free consultation to help you select the right audio and video devices for your organization!

Contact Center Headset Solutions

Contact Center Headset Solutions for 2021

It’s been a year since the first stay-at-home orders were issued here in the US. I remember how incredibly easy it was for Call One, Inc. and our sister company Hello Direct to transition from in-office to working from home because we had invested in cloud platforms for our ERP/CRM and business communications and collaboration platforms. We’re looking at the best contact center headset solutions for 2021.

8x8 Contact Center Difference Between UCaaS CCaaS Contact Center Headset Solutions

Our businesses utilize 8×8 as our primary voice and UCaaS platform however, we also use Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Cisco Webex, and other collaboration platforms to communicate with our customers, partners, and vendors. Our team has access to pretty much any headset they would like. Many of our team members are using the Poly Voyager Focus UC (MSRP $299.95, currently only $199.95). It was great in our open office environment, and it’s also a great solution in their home office environments. It provides ANC speakers, compatibility with all major business communications and collaboration platforms, wireless connectivity to their computer and mobile device, and up to 12 hours of talk time which is more than enough to cover an 8hr workday. Shop all Poly Voyager Focus Series Here!

For this blog I’m focused on Contact Center Headset Solutions that are available from the leading manufacturers: Poly (formerly Plantronics + Polycom), Jabra, EPOS, Cisco, and JPL.

Compatibility

Poly, Jabra and EPOS are the current leaders globally in the contact center headset solutions space for a reason. Poly has been in the call center/ contact center space since the 1960’s and Jabra is a subsidiary of the GN Group that’s been around for over 150 years. These leaders have deep relationships and integration with all leading contact center on-premise and cloud platforms like Avaya, Cisco, Genesys, NICE inContact, Amazon Connect, 8×8, Five9, talkdesk, twilio, and more!

Flexibility – Wearing Styles, Corded and Wireless

Headset Wearing Styles – Headsets are available in a variety of wearing styles to include: Single or Dual Ear Headband Style, Over the ear, Neckband (behind the neck) and Convertible options that include multiple wearing styles with a single sku (Headband, Over the ear, Neckband, other).

USB Corded Headsets – As many contact centers shift to cloud-based platforms, there has been an increased demand in USB corded headsets. Manufacturers have developed headsets with USB-A and USB-C connectivity as well as offer UC and Microsoft Teams certified models. Look at available corded USB headsets from Jabra, Poly, Logitech, Cisco, JPL, EPOS and Yealink here!

QD Corded Headsets – Headsets that terminate in a QD or Quick Disconnect (Easy Disconnect for EPOS Headsets) allow agents to change out interface cable to support connectivity to a desk phone, computer, dispatch console, turret and more. There is not a universal cable that allows you to connect a headset to all phones, computers, and consoles. An authorized headset vendor like Call One, Inc. can provide compatibility and help you choose the right interface option.

Wireless headsets today offer a ton of flexibility. They utilize DECT and/or Bluetooth to support multiple connectivity options and provide you freedom to move about your workspace.

The preferred wearing style for most contact center agents is single or dual-ear headband style like the new JPL Element TT3 Avant Monaural and Binaural options that have QD (Quick Disconnect) feature that allow agents to change out interface cable to support connectivity to a desk phone or computer.

Contact Center Headset Solutions
Jabra Engage 50 series

The Jabra Engage 50 series are headsets designed for the digital contact center. The Jabra Engage 50 features a powerful processing chip in the earcup that delivers advanced functionality including call analytic data. A unique, 3 microphone system with intelligent noise-cancelation filters our background noise and breathing sounds, giving callers a superior experience. For greater efficiency and call control, pair with the Jabra Engage Link. The call control unit accessory enables agents to adjust volume levels and mute, speed dial, answer and end calls, and update their status lights at the touch of a button. The control unit is easy to use and designed to stay in place.

Contact Center Headset Solutions Blackwire

The Poly Blackwire Series offer a broad range of solutions that include ANC speakers, USB-A, USB-C, and 3.5mm Connectivity options, UC and Microsoft Teams certified variants, and headset models that align with all budgets. From the entry-level Blackwire 3200 and 3300 Series all the way to the Poly Blackwire 8225 that includes Hybrid Active Noise Canceling (ANC) speakers and microphone that is Noise canceling with Acoustic Fence Technology and meets Microsoft Teams Open-Office certification levels. Check out this video below showcasing Poly Blackwire 8225 vs Barking Dog!

https://youtu.be/cr5ILr2HrhU

Pre-and Post-Sales Support

All leading headset manufacturers along with their authorized partners like Call One, Inc. and Hello Direct understand the challenges of the contact center. Together we can work to support Proof of Concept or Pilots that allow you to thoroughly evaluate headset solutions before you make a purchasing decision. Additionally, for those contact centers looking to deploy wireless headsets, select brands offer Wireless Density Surveys to determine which wireless headsets and how many you can deploy.

Call One, Inc. offers Agent in a Box service to help simplify deployment of headsets nationwide by including all the required components in one box. We can ship headsets to your contact center agents wherever they are (Business and/or Residential addresses in the US). Learn about how Agent in a Box helped one organization deploy thousands of EPOS SC230 & SC260 Headsets, CAVA31 phone cable and ED01 USB Adapters here!

Warranty Service – Most Contact Center headsets include a 1-3 Year Warranty depending on brand and model. In-Warranty Service is available directly from the manufacturers.

Full Line of AccessoriesSave money and Increase the life of your headset by replacing accessories like ear cushions, mic screens, voice tubes, wireless headset batteries, and more!

Wireless Headset Accessories

Corded Headset Accessories

Headset Management Software

 As Contact Centers shift to working remotely, a robust CCaaS solution like available from 8×8 is becoming critical, as well the ability to monitor and manage headsets remotely. Most IT leaders understand that you need more than the ability to push out software and firmware updates. Headset Management Software continues to evolve. Today, headset software from select partners allows you to monitor, manage and maintain your headsets. IT can help troubleshoot and fix issues remotely as well as manage deployment and inventory effectively. But there’s so much more! Contact Center customers can improve the customer experience by leveraging the power of analytics to influence business results with unique data captured directly from the headset. Please contact us to learn more about current headset management software.

Poly Lens

 Other Contact Center Services

Call One, Inc. can support contact centers of all sizes. Global Contact Centers may have additional services available directly through the manufacturers depending on size and global footprint. Contact us directly to see if you qualify!

Trade-In Programs – To help simplify the deployment of new headsets, trade-in programs are sometimes enabled to leverage existing headsets by assigning them a dollar amount and using that as a credit towards the purchase of new. Contact us to see if you qualify!

Eprocurement – Our in house Ecommerce team can integrate with your existing purchasing platforms and even help to develop and manage CIF and PunchOut catalogs to help simplify access to the headsets and full line of accessories you need. Contact us to learn more!

Budget Optimization Program – Call One, Inc. offers convenient monthly payment options for your contact center headset needs. We understand the value of positive cash flow and provide equipment financing options to help you make the most of your budget. Contact us to see if you qualify!

CCaaS Solutions – Call Center as a Service (CCaaS) solutions enable you to architect a customer experience that will leave your customers pleased and feeling good about interacting with your brand when they call. They enable a more dynamic business with on-demand scalability, global reach, and easy, out-of-the-box integrations into the widely used software that makes your business run. Contact us to learn which CCaaS provider is best for your Contact Center!

Conclusion

2021 marks 34 years of servicing customers. In the beginning we served primarily call centers and dispatch centers with Plantronics, GN Netcom, ACS and Unex headsets. Today, the contact center manages multiple channels of communications with customers that includes email, social media, chat, voice and increasingly, video. Our long term and very strong relationships with the leading brands and providers give us an additional layer of support when it comes to helping meet your contact center headset solutions needs. If you would like to learn how we can help your contact center, contact us today!