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Lync Video Interoperability Program

The Microsoft Lync Video Interoperability Program tests and qualifies partners’ video solutions to provide interoperability with Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 and Microsoft Lync Server 2010 and to provide a premium experience for customers. Microsoft Lync provides interoperability with three different types of video solutions:

  • Video teleconference (VTC) - A video endpoint registers directly with Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 and Microsoft Lync Server 2010 and provides a seamless user experience so that Lync users can connect to the VTC systems as if it were another contact. The VTC system will appear with presence information and allow user to one click initiate video calls to the VTC.
  • Multipoint control unit (MCU) -A multipoint control unit allows for multi-party conferencing by providing users the use of virtual room or video bridge where multiple parties can connect and conduct video conferencing. These virtual rooms/video bridges will appear in the OCS and Lync contact list to allow those users to connect and participate in multiparty video calls.
  • Gateway (GW) - A gateway allows connection with different network and provides Microsoft Lync access to different protocols to make video calls. Microsoft Lync uses SIP for signaling and H.263 and RTVideo as the video codec. Gateways provide access to other protocols such as H.323, H.261 and H.264. ‘Optimized for’ – IP phones, headsets, conference room systems and other devices that offer a rich and integrated experience giving customers the power to get the most out of their Lync experience and return on investment.
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‘Optimized for'

The Optimized for Microsoft Lync Logo is designed to help partners bring premium communication experiences to the market. Microsoft Lync users trust the logo as an assurance that the devices have been tested to provide the quality, compatibility, and reliability that ensures the best Microsoft Lync experience.

Only products and solutions that pass the stringent requirements can participate in the Lync logo program. The logo program requirements lead to an excellent experience for the customer and improved interoperability with Lync client and server software. Video solutions that meet the requirements are eligible for many benefits, such as being featured on Microsoft webpages and in marketing collateral, and license to use the logo word mark.

Program requirements for qualification

Partners interested in joining the Microsoft Lync Video Interoperability Program and obtaining qualification for their video solutions must meet the following criteria:

  • A long-term interest in developing product lines for the Microsoft Lync platform.
  • A proven record of developing and marketing enterprise grade systems.
  • Established global enterprise sales channels.
  • Company must have a Standard NDA signed with Microsoft.
  • Join Microsoft Connect to obtain specification and test plans.
  • Join Microsoft Partner Program. To register, go to the Microsoft Partner Program Sign In page and click Sign Up Now. Join at a level that aligns with your business strategies.
  • Obtain Communications Competency.
  • Become a member of TSANet. To learn about becoming a TSANet member, see the Technical Support Alliance Network website.
  • Successfully meet technical Qualification Program requirements documented in specification and test plan.
  • Provide dedicated website for Lync support products, including support, ordering, and technical documentation.

Technical requirements of qualification

The specific details of qualification will be provided from Microsoft to the partner once the partner has formally been accepted to the program.  In general, partner solution will need to meet this level of functionality to be qualified:

  • 720p HD video quality
  • Wideband audio quality
  • Multiparty video conferencing with Microsoft Lync AVMCU
  • Firewall Traversal capability
  • Encrypted and Secure video and audio calls
  • Presence capability  for video endpoints
  • Provide access to other protocols such as H.323, H.261 and H.264

Approximate timeline for qualification

Below is an approximated timeline for the qualification process. It shows tasks that can be performed concurrently as well as suggested order of precedence. The times are not guaranteed since scheduling could preempt the flow.

How to engage

Currently video qualification tests are performed by Microsoft Lync logo team. To introduce yourself and obtain more specifics, email LyncLogo.