We deployed a Collaboration solution using Microsoft Cloud services and Microsoft Lync technology. Effectively video conferencing but with no local IT infrastructure as its all based in Microsoft Cloud Data Centres so highly secure and resilient. The Lync solution allows interviewers to review meetings with potential immigrants during and after the initial meeting so that body language and behavioural experts can assess any risks.

The Home Office needed to be sure that Microsoft Lync was the only application accessible to users, so we used Microsoft Windows to guarantee a locked-down kiosk infrastructure. These kiosks are booths where an interviewer can go and sit, conduct an interview using Lync over Cloud Services and be assured of security but with no need to travel and the ability to have a high quality interactive video experience with people who potentially might move to the UK. We also deployed a resilient Cisco network to support the video capability.

We provide this solution as a managed service with our team ready to support remotely any technical issues with the environment from our Single Point of Contact Service Desk and 2nd Line specialists. We’re also currently expanding to include more sites and more kiosks across the UK in 2015 due the success of the core programme.