Microsoft has rolled out the first phase of the integration of Communicator and Skype. Merging the two makes both services together better, but even the best solution would be to eliminate one of them. In a blog post announcing Microsoft Update explains that Skype contacts can now be added to the Lync, Lync and users can be added to Skype. Current integration enables voice calls and instant messages between two services, but video is not yet integrated.
Integration with Skype available for Lync, Lync 2010, Lync 2013, but it must be enabled. An IT administrator can configure Communicator-Skype connections on the server, Lync, Lync in Central Administration or the portal Office 365. Skype users must use the current version of the Skype client software, and they need to sign in using your Microsoft account to take advantage of the integration of Lync. If you have a login to Xbox Live, SkyDrive, Windows Phone or Outlook.com, you already have an account with Microsoft that you can use with Skype.
The two services merged enterprises that rely on Lync can now more easily communicate with customers and partners around the world who use Skype. Integration provides two-way presence information, so users and Skype Communicator will be able to see who is online and available to chat.
Does not integrate the Lync, kill it
This is a step in the right direction, but Microsoft still has some work to do to optimize their messaging services. I noted in my last 30 days with Pro Series Surface that duplicates the functionality of Lync and Skype, and Windows 8 messages app almost useless.
Microsoft needs to consolidate its messaging into a single platform instead of requiring users to select. Right now on my Windows 8, Windows 8 tablets have the messages app by default, Communicator and Skype app. I also have the Lync 2013 and Skype for Windows on my desktop. On my iPhone and iPad I have Skype and Lync app. There are simply too many unnecessary options.
The logical choice is Skype. Lync is the name of the rebranding for Microsoft Office Communications Server (OCS), and it's still relatively new. It is also unclear, as compared with the global recognition of Skype. Skype is synonymous with online voice and video calls to the point that it became a verb. You can Skype someone but no one "Lyncs" people. Just as there is a consumer version of SkyDrive, and business-focused SkyDrive Pro, which connects with SharePoint and provides it administrators with greater control, Microsoft should offer Skype and Skype Pro to change the Lync.
To complete the process of rationalization, then Microsoft should fix in Windows 8 messaging app and do a Skype app defaults for messages in Windows 8. One application that provides integrated voice, video and instant messages without jumping through hoops.