Sometimes it seems as if there is only Skype for Business. Skype for Business here, Skype for Business there, Skype for Business everywhere. But what do the other applications actually do? But do they even exist? Of course, they do. Take Cisco, for example, which has for some time been prominently marketing its equivalent to Microsoft Teams: Cisco Spark. Heard of it?
Spark is a cloud-based communication service from Cisco. The basis is formed by so-called virtual rooms in which all exchange takes place. Every user can create persistent rooms and add other users. And you can define who can add or exclude further users. Users make use of rooms for group chats, conferences or meetings. For this, they use either their web browsers or the Spark apps installed on their PCs or mobile devices, with which they can participate regardless of their location.
Depending on the configuration, various functions are available to users. Spark is available in a free version as well as in three variants for which there is a charge, and these differ in terms of functional scope.
Spark mainly includes functions which are already well-known from similar services: chat, desktop sharing, audio and video calls, file transfer, Single Sign-On, Exchange connection, as well as analytical functions and self-service portals. What is new though is the virtual whiteboard, which can be used to create and exchange interactive sketches during conferences. In this connection, Cisco also offers special Spark Board hardware, on which you can draw using a touchscreen and which can also be used for video transmissions.
But some differences are in the small details. For example, you can mark people in chats, so that they can be informed by mentioning them. Or there are options for previewing files before downloading them. Or the possibility to delete chat messages again. And no presence data; unlike other applications, Spark does not include a presence feature.
The simple programming interface is also worth mentioning. It is based on the proven RESTful principles and is therefore quite easy to program via HTTP. Even Open Source SDKs are made available for Java and JavaScript. These enable the management of users, rooms, teams, memberships, the handling of chat messages, and the requesting of notifications for specific events. These APIs not only enable developers worldwide to have access to Cisco Spark, but also allow them to develop their own applications based on Spark, however (currently) without access to calls.
As Cisco also offers a free version, anyone can theoretically participate in Spark communication, for all you need is your own Spark account. And if you don’t have one, you can still make calls via the PSTN, if it has been set up. Cisco offers PSTN access in two variants:
- Either you connect your own Cisco switchboard, e.g. the Cisco Unified Communication Manager, to Spark and by doing so, enable your own users to make and receive PSTN calls from the Spark platform.
- Or you set up the PSTN access directly in the cloud for your company. So far this only works in the US, however.
It will be interesting to see future developments in Cisco Spark. Global PSTN calling from the cloud as well as enhanced APIs are two examples of possible useful expansion options.
If you would like to learn more about the new way of collaboration, then take the time to read my colleague's blog «Everyone is talking about collaboration. What do we mean by collaboration? And how can collaboration change the way you work?».
