Level 3, Amazon Partner on Global UC Service

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Level 3 Communications on Tuesday unveiled a single vendor-managed UC offering that runs on Amazon Web Services (AWS) with end-to-end customer support provided by Level 3.

With Amazon Chime delivered by Level 3, enterprises have access to an adaptable communications platform with Level 3 global service level agreements. It is available to Level 3 customers in North America and EMEA.

Level 3’s Anthony Christie

Anthony Christie, Level 3’s chief marketing officer, tells Channel Partners that the offering allows Level 3 partners to provide a “solution that allows enterprises to leapfrog their legacy environments and move quickly to a secure, integrated cloud-based audio, video and web-based enterprise-grade solution with end-to-end support independent of the endpoint device.”

“It’s all about simplicity and efficiency for the customer and the partner,” he said. “Unlike other UC&C models, this is truly a pay-as-you-go solution allowing enterprises the ability to retain licenses across their footprints but only pay when they actually use the service. Medium-to large-size enterprises typically require some level of management and support for their collaboration solutions. Amazon Chime delivered by Level 3 hits a sweet spot for those businesses that need a scalable, end-to-end solution that can be implemented without upfront commitments or investments, and can offer a high-touch, enterprise grade support experience, without putting the burden on the partner.”

Throughout the adoption process, Level 3 assists customers with training, implementation and professional services.

IT departments are challenged with helping enterprises realize the benefits of digital transformation, Christie said. At the same time, they’re working to replace or integrate legacy and siloed collaboration services into more efficient solutions designed to support the evolving needs of a more mobile and global workforce, he added.

“Customers have the benefit of AWS’ cloud-based disruptive innovation and agility, coupled with Level 3’s highly reliable and secure global network and high-touch support model, so partners and end users can focus on what matters most to their business,” he said.

“Our customers have told us that Amazon Chime takes the frustration out of meetings, with a single tool that helps ensure meetings start on time and gives employees high quality meetings with video, voice and chat,” said Carlin Wiegner, AWS’ general manager of Amazon Chime. “As an Advanced Partner in the AWS Partner Network, Level 3 is well suited to participate with us to deliver Amazon Chime.”

Level 3 is merging with CenturyLink in a $34 billion deal that’s expected to close this fall.