Avaya Cloud Strategies: Chart Your Path to UC and CC Modernization

For businesses still relying on Avaya on-premises systems, modernizing your unified communications (UC) and contact center (CC) solutions can seem daunting. But it doesn’t have to be. Shifting to a cloud environment isn’t just about technology; it’s about transforming the way your organization works and communicates. The benefits are undeniable—greater flexibility, improved security, and delivering exceptional experiences to both users and customers. But how do you choose the right path for your organization? 

We’re here to guide you. Below, we'll break down four clear migration strategies, whether you’re sticking with a hybrid approach or moving fully to the cloud. This way, you can modernize at your own pace while ensuring minimal disruptions and maximum efficiency.

Cloud Strategies to Modernize Avaya On-Premises Solutions

The move to the cloud isn’t a one-size-fits-all process, and that’s good news for organizations with unique needs. Whether you want to preserve existing Avaya investments, prioritize user experience, or adopt new technologies quickly, there’s a path that fits. 

The key first step? Determining whether you plan to stay with Avaya on-premises systems or fully migrate to the cloud. Once that decision is made, you’ll explore either the hybrid strategy or the full cloud strategy. Both paths open the door to modernization, but they cater to different business approaches. 

Step 1: Deciding the Right Path 

• Staying on Avaya On-Premises Infrastructure? ➡ Hybrid Strategy 
• Transitioning Fully to the Cloud? ➡ Full Cloud Strategy 

Now, let's examine these two approaches in detail.

Hybrid Strategy: Modernize While Keeping Avaya at the Core

For organizations heavily invested in Avaya technology, a hybrid strategy is an excellent way to modernize while maximizing the value of existing infrastructure. This phased approach balances innovation with cost management and ensures minimal disruption for users. 

Option 1: Cloud UC + Avaya Enterprise Voice 

This setup allows you to retain Avaya’s voice infrastructure (PBX, call routing, etc.) while adopting a modern cloud-based communications tool like Microsoft Teams, Webex by Cisco, Zoom, or RingCentral for collaboration. 

Key Features of Cloud UC: 

• Video conferencing for effortless remote collaboration. 
• Modern chat and file-sharing tools. 
• Flexibility for hybrid work models. 

Best for: 

• Businesses aiming to modernize without overhauling their telephony system.

Key Advantages: 

• Extend the life of Avaya’s enterprise voice systems. 
• Quickly roll out modern collaboration tools. 
• Create a seamless coexistence of legacy and new systems. 

Option 2: Cloud UC + Cloud Contact Center (CCaaS) 

If your organization requires advanced customer engagement capabilities, pairing UCaaS (unified communications as a service) with CCaaS (contact center as a service) platforms like Genesys Cloud CX or NICE CXone is the way forward. 

Why Choose This Path: 

• You need omnichannel communication (chat, SMS, social). 
• Smart routing, AI-powered analytics, and agent enhancements are business-critical. 
• You rely on deep integrations with CRM or service platforms. 

Key Advantages: 

• Deliver world-class customer interactions with intelligent routing. 
• Reduce operational burdens via scalable, cloud-native tools. 
• Foster collaboration with tight CRM and UC integrations. 

Full Cloud Strategy: Go All-In on Cloud Solutions 

Looking to fully modernize and take advantage of the scalability, agility, and innovation cloud platforms offer? A full cloud strategy is your best option. By transitioning both unified communications and contact center services to the cloud, you’ll unlock significant operational advantages. 

Option 1: Avaya Private Cloud UC (w/ Webex DI) + CCaaS Solutions 

For businesses prioritizing compliance, custom telephony, or complex contact centers, Avaya Private Cloud UC paired with Webex Dedicated Instance (DI) is the perfect fit. This approach mirrors your on-premises functionality in a secure private cloud. 

Best for: 

• Enterprises with intricate telephony needs who want enterprise-grade cloud control. 

Key Advantages: 

• Highly customizable setup. 
• Strong focus on security and compliance. 
• Advanced omnichannel contact center capabilities. 

Option 2: Public Cloud UC + CCaaS (Converged or Best-of-Breed) 

For organizations ready to simplify and scale rapidly, leveraging public cloud solutions across both UC (e.g., Webex, Zoom, RingCentral) and CC is ideal. You can choose converged solutions with a single vendor or best-of-breed combinations. 

Best for: 

• Digital-native enterprises. 
• IT teams looking for simplicity and innovation. 
• Rapidly scaling businesses with global users. 

Key Advantages: 

• Simplified procurement and support. 
• Regular updates with zero downtime. 
• Easily supports a hybrid or remote-first workforce. 

What to Consider When Choosing Your Path

Each migration path comes with its unique considerations. To ensure long-term success, think about: 

• Current Infrastructure: Is your existing system stable, or is end-of-life approaching? 
• Integration Needs: Can the new system connect with CRM, ticketing, or analytics platforms? 
• Regulatory Requirements: Does your industry demand strict compliance? 
• Workforce Needs: Who will use the system (remote, hybrid, global)? 
• User Experience: Are employees or customers asking for improved tools? 
• Migration Timeline: How quickly do you need the system in place?
  

These questions will guide you to the best approach for your business, ensuring a smoother migration process.

Build Your Cloud Communications Future with Confidence

Transitioning from Avaya on-premises systems to cloud-based UC and CC platforms doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right partner, you can tailor a strategy to fit your organization’s unique needs and unlock the full potential of modern communications. 

At every step, from assessment to optimization, a trusted cloud services provider can help you: 

• Evaluate your existing environment. 
• Align solutions with your business goals. 
• Integrate critical systems seamlessly. 
• Ensure user adoption through training.