When the Pandemic caused businesses to close last spring, many employees were sent home with a computer, a few office supplies, and no idea of when they would be able to return to the building. Communication devices such as headsets, speakers, and cameras (if they were even considered) were haphazardly ordered, or employees were left to use their personal ear buds and the built-in cameras in laptops.

Now that we've had some time to work through these issues and many employees remain in their home work spaces, they most likely are continuing to use the same thrown-together set-ups that they were sent home with in the spring. With the benefit of this past year as a teacher, we have a better idea of what works at home, and find many companies and individuals are starting to think of ways to enhance their WFH experience. We’ve put together some products for you to consider that will surely improve your work from home setup.

Wireless Headset

To experience complete silence while working, we recommend the Jabra Evolve 75 headset with Active Noise Canceling. It connects to both computers (with the included Link 370 USB adapter) and mobile phones via Bluetooth. The hear through feature lets you listen in to your surroundings, without removing the headset. We like the option to walk and talk, so you're able to take your calls on the go (up to 100 feet), whether it's to the kitchen to grab a glass of water, or to answer the front door to accept your FedEx package. The large, cushioned leatherette ear cushions rest comfortably on your ears for even the longest of calls and Zoom meetings. When you need to work in a new location, the included hard-sided zippered carry case will protect the Evolve 75 on the go. Available in both UC and Microsoft variants, you can also purchase the headset with a charging stand, if you would like to have a convenient place to store and charge the headset on a desk, when not in use.

Corded Headset

Jabra Engage 50 mono, or Engage 50 duo, and the optional Link call control take communication to a new level. The Engage 50 is a digital headset with a powerful processing chip in the ear cup that delivers advanced functionality including call analytic data. The 3-microphone system with intelligent noise-cancelation blocks out background noise and breathing sounds, so customers hear only the agents voice thereby delivering a superior call experience, whether you work from home or a physical contact center. The call control unit accessory enables agents to adjust volume levels and mute, speed dial, answer and end calls, and update their status lights at the touch of a button. The control unit is easy to use and designed to stay in place. Two programmable buttons can be customized in Jabra Direct; out of the box they are programmed for Speed Dial and Busylight (green: available; red; busy). The volume dial, and mute and answer/end buttons are intuitively placed and easy to use at a touch. There are Microsoft Teams-certified and UC variants in both USB-A and USB-C options. The Engage 50 headset ends in a USB-C connection, so if you are using these headsets in a computer with USB-A sockets only, you will need to purchase a Link unit.

We recommend the Engage 50 if you take calls and participate in team meetings primarily from your computer, and do not use a desk or mobile phone.

Speakerphone

If you're working in a private space, you will be able to use a speakerphone. We recommend the Poly Sync 40 or Sync 40+ models and you can find all of the Sync 40 variants, here: Poly Sync 40 Speakerphones.

Turn smaller or flexible spaces into powerful conference rooms; the Sync 40 provides premium sound. The multi-microphone array focuses on what’s being said and helps keep echo and noise out of meetings. And, full duplex audio lets conversations flow naturally, even when users talk over each other.

We like the flexibility that the Sync 40 offers. You can connect to either USB-A or USB-C computers with the same unit, thanks to the integrated cable that has both connections included. The Sync 40+ models include the BT600 USB dongle and a USB-A to USB-C adapter. When you go into the office, you can wirelessly pair two units together for larger meeting space needs.

It is certified for Zoom and Microsoft Teams, for seamless experiences, as well as other major UC communication platforms.

Camera

For a clear picture on all of your Teams and Zoom calls, we recommend the JPL Vision Mini camera, which is a diminutive device with some great features, including automatic low light correction, integrated privacy cover and 2-year warranty. The Field of View is 67° and you have full 360° camera rotation including 90° tilt for over-desk viewing.

The plug-and-play Vision Mini is designed to suit the way you like to make a video call, whether it’s one to one or conference, you can place the Vision Mini webcam where you want it - on a computer monitor, desktop or tripod. It is compatible with all major platforms and the price is pretty nice: $49.95 MSRP.

Busylight

Use this at home now, and in the office when/if you return. The design of the Omega Kuando Busylight makes it highly visible from across a room and is an instant notification of your status: Red for Busy; Green for Available; and other colors that can be programmed to suit your work style. It will also: Ring and flash on incoming calls; Beep & flash – Indication for IMs; and there's a Flash notification for missed calls/IMs. Everyone can benefit from an Omega Busylight at their work space.

We have become quite adept at collaborating with colleagues, customers, and students from a distance, and these products will raise your communications game — whether you remain at home, or return to the office building. Contact our team for personalized recommendations to elevate your communication devices at 1-866-998-9991 or Chat us now.

Has your company implemented a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policy and you’re not sure what type of audio and video product to purchase? Our team has put together a few suggestions at a variety of price points, for typical BYOD scenarios. These products will beat the audio and video quality found in a standard laptop or computer. Each individual environment and preference may require a modification, and our team is ready to provide specialized suggestions for your unique work space and situation. Call us at 1-866-998-9991 or Chat us now for help.

Quiet work spaces

If you are working in a private home office, private office, or in a hotel room, and you are able to close the door on noise, we suggest these devices:

A speakerphone with extra features, such as the Poly Sync 20+: This USB-A with BT600 USB dongle speakerphone connects to computers and mobile phones. When you're not on a call or in a video conference, you can use the Sync 20 to play music. It's simple to connect and portable for use anywhere. The programmable Rocket Button can bring up a Voice Assistant, play music, and more. Customize this in the Hub Desktop software, a free download.

If you'd rather use a headset with your computer, the Poly Blackwire 5210 is a corded headset with call controls at your fingertips for call answer and end, volume adjustments, and mute. The lightweight headset has a large ultrasoft leatherette ear cushion, and it offers connection both via USB and 3.5mm; however, for best performance, it is recommended to connect to computers via USB. A noise-canceling microphone is integrated in the bendable mic boom so that your voice comes through loud and clear.

Other great options for a single-ear corded headset include the Jabra Evolve II 30 which offers USB and 3.5mm connections; Poly Blackwire 3310-M which has a USB connection, and Blackwire 3315-M, which is a dual connection to USB and 3.5mm. All three of these headsets are Certified for Microsoft Teams, which means that when you connect this headset to your computer and you're logged into your Teams account, Teams will immediately recognize the device as the default sound device.

If you would prefer a wireless headset for computer only, the Poly Savi 8200 UC has wearing style options (mono, duo or convertible), ANC in the duo variant, and unlimited talk time in the Savi 8245 UC. For a wireless Bluetooth headset with dual connectivity for both mobile phone and computer, we recommend the Jabra Evolve2 65 which seamlessly transitions between the two connections so you're always on.

Noisy work spaces

If you are working in a space with one (or more) family members, such as at the kitchen table, we recommend an Active Noise Canceling headset that will block background noise so that you are able to concentrate on your work. EPOS Adapt 660 has adaptive Active Noise Canceling that monitors your working environment and adjusts noise reduction accordingly. Talk Through technology for listening to colleagues without removing the headset, for a quick check-in to your environment. These ear speakers completely surround the ears.

Jabra Evolve 80 has large ear speakers that completely surround the ear, and bright Busylights on the ear cups that provide a visual notification if you are on a call or do not want to be disturbed. This connects via both USB and 3.5mm jack for mobile phones equipped with that port.

For a wireless ANC headset option from Jabra, the Evolve2 85 has an advanced digital chipset for the clearest calls, a microphone boom that can be folded up and stored away when not in use, and Busylights that are more visible than ever, allowing you to be seen from every angle, for even fewer interruptions. These headsets have a "Listen In" feature for when you need to check in on your surroundings without taking off your headset.

A corded USB headset with advanced Active Noise Cancellation, the Poly Blackwire 8225 has three settings for optimal productivity. Acoustic Fence Technology in the noise-canceling microphone keeps calls free from background noise, and improves vocal clarity for clear conversations.

A standard recommendation in noisy environments is to wear a duo headset with both ears covered, which helps to block ambient noise, for passive noise cancellation. The Jabra Biz 2400 II Duo USB headset has a Kevlar cord for durability, luxury leatherette ear cushions, an unbreakable 360° FreeSpin boom arm and call controls at your fingertips, thanks to the in-line call controller.


Poly Blackwire 5220 has a sling headband design in this dual ear headset, and connects via USB or 3.5mm. The in-line call controls are a handy feature, and let you answer/end calls, adjust volume and mute. The corresponding LED lights on the call controller provide a great visual reminder: Triple flash green=Incoming call; Double flash green=Call on hold; Solid green=On a call; Solid red=Headset is muted.

The Poly EncorePro 320 is a lower cost option that plugs into your computer (either USB-A or USB-C), with in-line call controls for volume and mute.

For personalized recommendations, contact our Headset Experts at 1-866-998-9991 or Chat us and they will find the best solutions for your unique requirements.

To sound like the professional you are, your calls deserve premium audio; something your laptop and smartphone speakers cannot deliver.

Poly has the answer: the Sync 20 speakerphone provides robust audio for conference calls and music, anywhere.

A multi-microphone array reduces both echo and unwanted background noise – keeping the focus on who’s speaking. Full duplex audio technology allows people on both ends of the call to speak simultaneously without muting each other, making conversations feel natural. You won't miss a word.

The bass reflex system with dual-passive radiators ensures high-quality, natural-sounding voice while on calls and and there's deep bass for jamming out to your favorite playlist between calls.

The best part? It's easy to set up: Take the Sync 20 out of the box, connect it to your mobile phone or computer (via Bluetooth or with the integrated USB cord on the bottom of the Sync 20), and you're ready to go.

Once you're connected, the highly visible LED light indicator lets you know the call status – even from a distance. The touch buttons on the top of the Sync 20 let you answer and end calls; increase and decrease volume; mute calls; and switch between functions – such as play or pause music, last number redial, voice assistant, and more – with the touch of the programmable Rocket button. The Microsoft Teams-Certified variant has a dedicated Teams button.

Whether you need USB-A or USB-C connection, Microsoft or UC certified, or a BT600 USB dongle (all of the "+" models), there's a speakerphone to meet everyone's requirements. You can take a look at the all of the Poly Sync 20 and 20+ variants, here: Poly Sync Speakerphones.


It's worth mentioning that the Sync 20 battery gives you up to 20 hours of talk time, and you can charge your smartphone too in the integrated USB-A charging port.
The Sync 20 has been IP64-rated for dust and water resistance, so it's safe to wipe it down with water or disinfectant to keep it clean and germ-free.


Poly is continuing the Sync series with the Sync 40 for huddle room spaces and the Sync 60 for small to mid-size conference rooms. Watch for those models in 2021. Our Customer Care Team is ready to help you determine which Sync 20 or Sync 20+ model you need. Give them a call at 1-866-998-9991 or Chat us now.

Learn more about the Sync 20 models, in our overview video.

A familiar name in the audio world is now in the professional office headset space.

Bose Professional has introduced the 700 UC wireless headsets in 2 color choices: silver and black. The audio quality that you've come to expect from Bose, along with 11 levels of active noise cancellation, combine to position Bose Professional as a serious contender in the office space.

Audiophiles are most likely familiar with the Bose 700 headphones; this is the same fit, feel and look, with one key difference: the included pre-paired Bose USB Link dongle. The Link dongle is plugged into your PC or Mac, and then connects to the 700 UC headset via Bluetooth to seamlessly integrate with your UC software platforms. The 700 UC are certified for use with Microsoft Teams, Google Meet and more.

The boomless mic design has an adaptive four-microphone system, which isolates your voice from surrounding noise.

With 20 hours of battery life, active equalization technology for premier audio, and Conversation Mode to quickly tune into your environment, the Bose 700 UC headset is a great choice for Bose devotees and others.

Included with the 700 UC headset is a Bose USB Link dongle, audio cable, a USB charging cable and a hard-sided zippered carrying case for storage and travel.

For more detailed information about the 700 UC models, read this Bose Professional 700 UC Technical Spec sheet.

Contact our team of Headset Experts at 1-866-998-9991 or Chat us now to learn more about Bose 700 UC headsets.

Poly's new white paper brings together thought leadership for what it calls the "Next Normal," which puts people first, to empower them in productive work environments — wherever the physical space may be. According to Poly, "2020 will be the catalyst for hybrid working, offering employees flexibility and choice, driving productivity through collaboration and communication." Basically, creating environments that foster productivity, collaboration, innovation and safety.

The digital transformation ensures consistent work experiences that will react to the crisis and mitigate any harm to the business.

Policies and procedures that support both the business and individual, in a "People First" culture as Poly calls it, will prove to be mutually beneficial.


Interestingly, Poly found that 85% of businesses surveyed believe that greater location flexibility has lead to an increase in productivity.

What can we expect in the "Next Normal?"

• Home office spaces built into residences
• Increased flexible work across locations
• Recruitment over larger demographic (and perhaps geographic) areas
• Work from home, meet in the office, bringing everyone together virtually
• Smaller company footprints over more dispersed locations
• Seamless work flows between home and office
• Technology designed for ease of use with personal devices
• Necessary business travel only

The only certainty? The core components of any organization: practices, workspace, and culture, will change as we transition into the "next normal." This won't be easy, but evolving to suit the needs of people and organizations will be worth it.

For more information about Hybrid Working, read Hybrid Working: Creating the "Next Normal" in Work Practices, Spaces and Culture, a resource from Poly.

If you need communication tools to support your work style, reach out to our Headset Experts at 1-866-998-9991 or Chat us now!