Cisco TelePresence vs HCL Sametime comparison

Cisco TelePresence and HCL Sametime compete in communication and collaboration tools. Cisco TelePresence excels in video conferencing quality, while HCL Sametime offers a broader collaboration platform.

Features: Cisco TelePresence provides dual cameras, dual screens, and Proximity features, enhancing meeting quality. The SpeakerTrack feature allows for multi-participant tracking. Its configuration options ensure high-definition communication services. HCL Sametime offers integrated messaging, file sharing, and presence awareness. It integrates with IBM Notes, enabling instant communication. Sametime features status detection, updating user availability automatically when needed.

Room for Improvement: Cisco TelePresence could improve by reducing licensing costs for high-definition settings, as multiple licenses are expensive. The platform requires significant hardware investment, which can be cost-prohibitive. Its setup complexity can challenge smaller organizations. HCL Sametime can enhance its email integration capabilities, potentially by using additional solutions like FortiMail Gateway. The user interface could be modernized for better usability. Improving scalability options may also benefit growing organizations.

Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: Cisco TelePresence has a complex setup needing specialized hardware, but offers excellent support for smooth operation. HCL Sametime is flexible, with both cloud-based and on-premises deployment options, suitable for quick setups. It provides satisfactory support, which is advantageous for businesses seeking less complex installation.

Pricing and ROI: Cisco TelePresence requires a large initial investment due to hardware needs yet promises high ROI for heavy video conferencing users. HCL Sametime offers cost-effective solutions with lower setup costs, providing good ROI through its comprehensive collaboration features.