Skype for Business to Teams

Moving from Skype for Business to Teams

Another objective of the project is to move people from Skype for Business (SfB) to Teams. Microsoft is retiring Skype for Business and replacing it with Teams.

If you are already using Skype for Business on your computer, the move to Teams is straightforward.

Microsoft information about the differences between Teams and Skype for Business: Differences

We have fully migrated from Skype for Business to Teams - so start using Teams!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Microsoft Teams replacing Skype for Business Online?

Microsoft Teams expands on the capabilities in Skype for Business by bringing together files, chats, and apps in an integrated app, with functionality that enables organizations to move faster and collaborate more efficiently. Because of the richer set of experiences offered in Teams, it replaces Skype for Business as the core communications client for Office 365.

When is the retirement of Skype for Business Online?

Skype for Business will retire on July 31, 2021. The University has taken the decision to move all Skype for Business users over to Teams by the end of 2019. This will free up servers and simplify communications throughout the university as everyone will be using the same platform.

What happens after I am upgraded to Teams?

All chat and calls will go to Teams, and you will see them in your Teams app. All new meetings will be scheduled in Teams. Existing meetings will be in Teams (these are automatically migrated for you).

If you try to sign in to Skype for Business, you will get a notification that you've been upgraded to Teams.

What do I need to do?

Nothing - Teams will be installed and configured for you, and you will be able to use it straight away to make calls, hold meetings, and chat to friends and colleagues.

You can continue to use your existing equipment (e.g. headset, speakers).

If you have it, you will need to uninstall the Skype for Business client on your mobile device. Teams have a mobile client for iOS and Android phones.

How do I call external people now?

Until the full migration Easter 2020, you will need to set up a meeting with them via Outlook. This creates a URL which they can use to connect with you.

Once everyone is migrated to Teams, then you will have a dial pad within the Teams app you can use to dial telephone numbers.

I need to organise a conference with a dial in number

If you need a dial in number and PIN for external users (who will be calling via phone rather than internet link), please raise a call with the IT Service Desk to have audio conferencing licenced.

Audio conferencing is being enabled on a need to have basis, for most meetings around the university you can use Teams or a URL to meet with people.

Learn more

Chat

Start a chat with individuals or groups
Turn a chat into a call
Share a file with people in a chat
Add emoji

Link to Microsoft training: Chat

Meetings (also to call external numbers)

Schedule a meeting from Outlook
Share desktop or app
In-meeting access to chat and files

Link to Microsoft training: Meetings

Calls (internal)

Make, forward, and transfer calls

Link to Microsoft training: Calls

Mobile (iOS and Android)

Chat, call, and meet from your mobile device

Link to Microsoft training: Mobile