Make Hybrid Working Easier with a Unified Phone and Video System

Managing hybrid teams is no small task, especially when communication tools don’t connect. Unified phone and video systems bring all essential features into one platform, helping businesses streamline communication, reduce complexity, and keep hybrid teams productive. Instead of juggling multiple apps, staff can work seamlessly across devices and locations without unnecessary friction.

Using separate systems for calls, video meetings, and messaging not only wastes time but also increases costs and frustration. When staff can’t reach each other or technology fails during crucial meetings, collaboration suffers and productivity stalls.

PurpleUC helps businesses overcome these issues through expert guidance on unified communication solutions. With over 30 years of experience, we’ve supported organisations of all sizes in selecting, deploying, and optimising platforms that work for the way they work, wherever they are.

Why Unified Phone and Video Systems Support Better Hybrid Working

Unified communication platforms offer three critical benefits for hybrid teams: stronger collaboration, consistent access across devices, and greater cost control. They improve daily workflows, reduce technical hurdles, and increase overall efficiency.

1. Better Collaboration and Team Communication

Unified systems help teams communicate clearly without switching tools mid-task. Staff can move from a phone call to a video meeting with one click. There is no confusion and no lost context.

A single platform ensures all team members, whether remote or in-office, have access to the same tools. Real-time presence indicators show who’s available, while chat, call, and video options keep everyone connected in the way that suits them best.

Shared conversation history and easy file access support ongoing collaboration. Everyone stays on the same page, no matter where or how they’re working.

2. Seamless Access Across All Devices

Modern unified platforms are designed for mobility. Whether staff are using smartphones, tablets, laptops, or office desktops, they can make and receive calls, join video meetings, and manage messages from anywhere.

The consistent interface reduces training time and makes adoption easier. Teams only need to learn one system, which works the same regardless of device.

Features like hot-desking and mobile app access mean communication settings, contacts, and history follow staff wherever they go. This helps maintain productivity, even when working from multiple locations.

Advanced tools such as call recording, screen sharing, and scheduling are available on the go. Remote staff can stay just as connected and capable as their office-based colleagues.

3. Lower Costs and Simplified IT Management

Consolidating communication into a single platform helps businesses cut costs and streamline operations. Multiple vendor contracts and overlapping tools become a thing of the past.

Unified systems are typically more cost-effective than managing separate solutions. With consolidated pricing and fewer licences, SMEs can maximise value while reducing unnecessary spend.

IT teams benefit too. With one platform to maintain, updates, support, and training are simplified. This saves time and reduces disruption across the business.

Optimised bandwidth usage also improves voice and video performance. This supports smoother meetings and clearer calls without overloading the network.

How to Roll Out a Unified Communications System Successfully

Successful deployment starts with choosing the right platform, preparing your team, and ensuring your solution meets modern security standards. At PurpleUC, we guide businesses through each step. Our goal is to minimise disruption and maximise return on investment.

Choosing a Platform That Works for Your Business

The right platform should support both voice and video in one interface. It should also integrate with everyday tools like email, calendars, and project systems to reduce the need to switch between apps.

Scalability is important too. SMEs may only need basic features at first, but a platform that grows with your business is key. Advanced tools like analytics, call routing, and admin controls are valuable for future needs.

Consider the total cost of ownership. Look beyond monthly fees to include setup, hardware, and any charges for additional features such as call recording or international access.

Mobile compatibility is essential. Today’s hybrid teams need full functionality on smartphones and tablets as well as desktops. A truly unified system delivers a consistent experience on every device.

Onboarding and Supporting Your Team

Implementation is only as strong as your onboarding. Start with small groups, provide step-by-step guides, and run practice sessions to build confidence before full rollout.

Use a phased approach. Early adopters help test features and provide feedback that smooths the transition. These internal champions can also help support their teams during rollout.

Make learning accessible. Use simple guides with screenshots and short videos. Offer refresher sessions for any team members who need additional support.

Keeping Communication Secure and Compliant

PurpleUC delivers systems that include end-to-end encryption for voice, video, and messaging. This protects communications from unauthorised access both during transmission and when stored.

Customisable access controls allow administrators to assign permissions based on roles. This helps maintain security and ensures each department has access only to what they need.

Regular updates are essential for security. We recommend enabling automatic updates or scheduling monthly maintenance to ensure systems stay protected and up to date.

PurpleUC supports full compliance with industry standards. Our platforms meet requirements such as HIPAA for healthcare and FCA regulations for financial services.

Reliable backup and disaster recovery planning ensure continuity if service interruptions occur. We advise testing procedures regularly and having alternative communication methods ready.

With more than 30 years of experience supporting UK businesses, PurpleUC delivers solutions that are secure, scalable, and designed to work the way your team works. See what our clients say, and discover how we can help your hybrid teams stay connected and productive.