Best Cloud Communication Platforms Shortlist
Here’s my shortlist of the best cloud communication platforms:
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
If your team is scattered across too many messaging apps, missing important updates, or struggling to keep communication organized, you're likely looking for a better way to connect. Maybe you're trying to unify internal messaging, support customer conversations more efficiently, or reduce tool overload. These gaps can slow your team down and lead to miscommunication.
Cloud communication platforms help centralize conversations, support real-time messaging, video, and voice, and give your team a consistent way to stay connected—whether you're remote, hybrid, or scaling fast. The right platform makes it easier to collaborate without switching tools or losing context.
I’ve worked with SaaS teams trying to solve exactly these problems, choosing tools that balance simplicity with flexibility. In this guide, I’ll walk you through communication platforms that stand out for their real-world usability, integrations, and ability to actually support how your team works.
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Best Cloud Communication Platform Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top cloud communication platform selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Best for remote teams communication | 7-day free trial + demo available | From $21/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
2 | Best for customer support integration | 14-day free trial | From $19/month (billed annually) | Website | |
3 | Best for call center management | 14-day free trial + demo available | From $29/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
4 | Best for security compliance monitoring | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
5 | Best for small business scalability | Free demo available | From $16.95/user/month | Website | |
6 | Best for financial services communication | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
7 | Best for hybrid cloud solutions | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
8 | Best for Amazon Connect users | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
9 | Best for personalized communications | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
10 | Best for client engagement tools | Demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
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Best Cloud Communication Platform Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best cloud communication platforms that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
Ringover is a cloud communication platform designed primarily for staffing agencies, sales teams, and small businesses. It offers features like cloud telephony and conversational AI to enhance communication and sales prospecting.
Why I picked Ringover: The platform is tailored for remote teams, providing tools that facilitate multichannel communication and AI-driven insights. Its conversational AI features include transcription and mood analysis, which can improve team interactions and customer service. The cloud telephony system supports seamless communication across various channels, perfect for remote work settings. Additionally, Ringover's integration with CRM and ATS systems like Salesforce and Bullhorn makes it versatile for different business needs.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include advanced reporting that identifies performance issues, a user-friendly app for working from any device, and sales prospecting tools with automation and analytics. These features help reduce after-call tasks and boost productivity.
Integrations include Salesforce, Bullhorn, Avionté, HubSpot, Zoho, Pipedrive, Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zendesk, and Freshdesk.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Multichannel communication support
- User-friendly mobile app
- Advanced reporting tools
Cons:
- Learning curve for new users
- Limited customization options
Avochato is a cloud communication platform tailored for customer support teams and businesses looking to enhance their customer interaction. It simplifies communication by allowing teams to manage SMS, chat, and voice communications in one place.
Why I picked Avochato: The platform excels in customer support integration with features like shared inboxes and automated workflows. This makes it easy for your team to manage multiple customer interactions simultaneously. Avochato also offers keyword-based routing to ensure messages reach the right person quickly. In my experience, its ability to integrate seamlessly with customer support tools makes it a standout choice for businesses focused on improving customer service.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable message templates that save your team time, analytics dashboards that provide insights into communication effectiveness, and automated follow-up messaging to ensure no customer is left waiting. These features help streamline your team's workflow and improve response times.
Integrations include Salesforce, Slack, Microsoft Teams, HubSpot, Zapier, Zendesk, Google Sheets, Shopify, Mailchimp, and Front.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy keyword-based routing
- Shared inbox for teams
- Automated workflows
Cons:
- Some learning curve
- Limited advanced features
JustCall is a cloud-based phone system primarily used by sales and support teams to manage calls and SMS communication. It offers call center management features that help teams handle high volumes of customer interactions efficiently.
Why I picked JustCall: It offers features tailored for call center management, such as call routing and tracking. These tools help your team manage inbound and outbound calls with ease. JustCall also includes a call monitoring feature that allows supervisors to listen in on live calls, ensuring quality control. In my experience, its ability to integrate with CRM systems enhances productivity by keeping all communication in one place.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a click-to-call function that saves time, call recording for training purposes, and SMS automation to streamline follow-ups. These tools help your team stay organized and responsive.
Integrations include Salesforce, HubSpot, Zoho, Pipedrive, Intercom, Slack, Zendesk, Freshdesk, ActiveCampaign, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Effective call tracking
- Live call monitoring
- Click-to-call function
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Occasional call quality issues
Panoptica is a cloud-based communication platform for construction professionals and project stakeholders. It enhances project management by facilitating model reviews and identifying design issues before construction begins.
Why I picked Panoptica: The platform excels in security compliance monitoring, allowing users to conduct model reviews across multiple devices like HoloLens and iPad Pro. This flexibility ensures that your team can address design issues early, reducing rework costs significantly. Panoptica's ability to streamline the entire review process, from setup to reporting, enhances security and operational effectiveness. In my experience, its focus on safety and security compliance makes it a valuable tool for construction projects.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time collaboration that allows multiple stakeholders to participate in reviews simultaneously, issue tracking to ensure all potential problems are addressed, and detailed reporting for comprehensive project analysis. These features help keep your projects on track and within budget.
Integrations include Autodesk, Revit, Navisworks, Microsoft Teams, Slack, Procore, BIM 360, Bluebeam, PlanGrid, and Google Drive.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time collaboration tools
- Multi-device support
- Effective issue tracking
Cons:
- Requires training for new users
- Dependent on internet connectivity
Ultatel Cloud Business Phone System is a communication platform designed for small to medium-sized businesses looking to enhance their voice communication capabilities. It provides a range of features that facilitate efficient call management and customer interaction.
Why I picked Ultatel Cloud Business Phone System: It offers scalability tailored to small businesses, allowing you to expand your communication capabilities as your business grows. Features like call forwarding and voicemail-to-email ensure you never miss important messages. The system also includes a virtual receptionist to handle calls professionally. In my experience, its flexibility and feature set make it an excellent choice for businesses planning to scale.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include advanced call analytics that provide insights into call performance, call recording for quality assurance, and conference calling to improve team collaboration. These tools help you manage your communication needs effectively.
Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Teams, Slack, Google Workspace, Zoho, HubSpot, Pipedrive, Zendesk, Freshdesk, and Shopify.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Voicemail-to-email feature
- Effective call forwarding
- Scalable for small businesses
Cons:
- Learning curve for advanced features
- Setup can be time-consuming
Broadridge is a communication platform for financial services professionals to manage and streamline client communications. It supports functions like client reporting, regulatory compliance, and document management.
Why I picked Broadridge: The platform is tailored for financial services, offering tools that ensure regulatory compliance and enhance client communication. It includes client reporting features that help your team deliver precise and timely reports. Broadridge also offers document management to keep all your important files organized and accessible. In my experience, its focus on the financial sector makes it a valuable tool for businesses needing specialized communication solutions.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated document delivery that ensures clients receive necessary documents on time, multi-channel communication options to reach clients via their preferred method, and compliance management tools to help you stay up-to-date with regulations. These features ensure efficient and reliable communication with your clients.
Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics 365, SAP, Oracle, IBM, Thomson Reuters, Bloomberg, DocuSign, Adobe, and AWS.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Multi-channel communication options
- Effective client reporting
- Tailored for financial services
Cons:
- Requires training for new users
- Dependent on a stable internet connection
HPE GreenLake is a cloud service platform for enterprises that require a hybrid IT environment. It provides a flexible approach to managing workloads and resources across on-premises and cloud infrastructures.
Why I picked HPE GreenLake: It offers hybrid cloud solutions that allow your team to manage workloads seamlessly between on-premises and cloud environments. Features like consumption-based pricing provide financial flexibility, adapting to your specific usage needs. The platform also includes comprehensive workload management tools that enhance operational efficiency. In my experience, its ability to integrate hybrid cloud operations makes it ideal for enterprises seeking flexible cloud solutions.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time analytics for monitoring and optimizing resource usage, automated infrastructure management to reduce manual tasks, and robust security features to protect your data. These tools ensure your IT operations run smoothly and securely.
Integrations include VMware, Microsoft Azure, AWS, SAP, Oracle, Red Hat, Citrix, Docker, Kubernetes, and ServiceNow.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Flexible hybrid cloud management
- Consumption-based pricing model
- Real-time analytics capabilities
Cons:
- Complex setup and configuration
- Dependency on HPE hardware
USAN Contact Suite for Amazon Connect is a cloud-based communication platform designed for contact centers using Amazon Connect. It helps businesses manage customer interactions through voice, chat, and email channels efficiently.
Why I picked USAN Contact Suite for Amazon Connect: It is specifically tailored for Amazon Connect users, offering features that enhance contact center operations. The suite includes advanced call routing, which ensures customers are connected to the right agent quickly. It also provides real-time analytics to help your team make informed decisions. In my experience, its seamless integration with Amazon Connect enhances the overall functionality and efficiency of your contact center.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable dashboards that allow you to monitor key metrics at a glance, automated call distribution to optimize agent workload, and call recording for quality assurance. These features help improve the efficiency and effectiveness of your contact center operations.
Integrations include Salesforce, Zendesk, Microsoft Dynamics 365, ServiceNow, Oracle, SAP, Genesys, Twilio, Cisco, and Avaya.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time analytics
- Advanced call routing capabilities
- Tailored for Amazon Connect users
Cons:
- Limited customization flexibility
- Requires technical expertise
Quadient Inspire is a customer communication management platform used by businesses to create and deliver personalized communications. It's designed for industries like finance, insurance, and utilities to handle large volumes of customer interactions efficiently.
Why I picked Quadient Inspire: It excels in creating personalized communications, offering tools that help your team tailor messages to individual customer needs. The platform features interactive document creation, allowing you to engage customers with dynamic content. Quadient Inspire also provides advanced analytics to track the effectiveness of your communications. In my experience, its focus on personalization makes it a valuable tool for businesses aiming to enhance customer engagement.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include omnichannel delivery that ensures consistent messaging across all platforms, template management to streamline content creation, and compliance tools to meet industry regulations. These features help your team maintain a high standard of communication with clients.
Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics 365, SAP, Oracle, Adobe Experience Manager, IBM, DocuSign, Dropbox, Google Drive, and SharePoint.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Interactive document creation tools
- Advanced analytics for tracking
- Omnichannel delivery options
Cons:
- Limited customization for small teams
- Requires training for full utilization
Moxo is a client interaction management platform for businesses that need to enhance client engagement. It serves industries like finance, real estate, and legal services by facilitating client communication and transaction management.
Why I picked Moxo: It's tailored for client engagement, providing tools that improve communication and transactions. The platform supports secure messaging and document sharing, ensuring your client interactions are efficient and safe. Moxo also offers task management features that help your team stay organized and responsive. In my experience, its focus on client interaction makes it a valuable tool for industries that rely heavily on customer engagement.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include video conferencing capabilities that allow for face-to-face interaction, digital signature tools to expedite document approvals, and workflow automation to streamline processes. These features ensure your team can manage client interactions effectively.
Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Teams, Slack, Google Workspace, Dropbox, DocuSign, HubSpot, Zoom, Box, and OneDrive.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Secure messaging features
- Efficient document sharing
- Supports workflow automation
Cons:
- High learning curve for new users
- Requires some technical expertise
Other Cloud Communication Platform
Here are some additional cloud communication platform options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- CloudTalk
For call center analytics
- 3CX
For VoIP phone systems
- Textedly
For SMS marketing
- Mobile Text Alerts
For mass text messaging
- Bitrix24
For team collaboration tools
- WebEx
For video conferencing
- Wrike
For project management
- Runrun.it
For task management
- Twilio
For SMS API integration
- Pony Express HQ
For SMS campaigns
- GoTo Connect
For remote work solutions
- Kixie Powercall
For sales calls
- Google Workspace
For a productivity suite
- Qiscus
For chat SDKs
- MiCloud Connect
For unified communications
- Line2 Pro
For the second phone line
- Vonix
For small business telephony
Cloud Communication Platform Selection Criteria
When selecting the best cloud communication platform to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like integration capabilities and scalability. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Voice communication
- Video conferencing
- Instant messaging
- File sharing
- Integration with other tools
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Advanced analytics
- AI-driven insights
- Customizable workflows
- Multi-language support
- End-to-end encryption
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive interface
- Easy navigation
- Minimal learning curve
- Responsive design
- Customization options
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Access to webinars
- Use of chatbots
- Pre-configured templates
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 support availability
- Multiple support channels
- Knowledge base access
- Response time
- Personalized assistance
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing
- Feature-to-price ratio
- Flexible pricing plans
- Transparency in pricing
- Discounts for long-term use
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Overall satisfaction rating
- Commonly mentioned pain points
- Praise for specific features
- Feedback on customer service
- Frequency of updates and improvements
How to Choose Cloud Communication Platform
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
Factor | What to Consider |
Scalability | Can the platform grow with your business? Check if it supports increasing users and data without performance issues. |
Integrations | Does it connect with your existing tools? Look for platforms that offer seamless integration with your current software, like CRM or HR systems. |
Customizability | Can you tailor the platform to your needs? Assess if it allows configuration to match your workflows and branding. |
Ease of use | Is the platform intuitive? Evaluate if your team can navigate it easily without extensive training. |
Implementation and onboarding | How long will the setup take? Consider the time and resources needed for a full rollout, including training and data migration. |
Cost | What’s the total cost of ownership? Include subscription fees, setup costs, and any hidden charges in your budget analysis. |
Security safeguards | Are your communications protected? Check for encryption standards and compliance with data protection regulations. |
Support availability | When and how can you get help? Ensure there’s reliable customer support available through multiple channels when you need it most. |
What Is a Cloud Communication Platform?
A cloud communication platform is a digital solution that enables businesses to manage voice, video, and messaging communications over the internet. These tools are typically used by IT professionals, customer service teams, and remote workers to facilitate efficient communication and collaboration.
Features like call routing, video conferencing, and instant messaging help with connecting teams and clients effectively. Overall, these platforms provide users with a flexible and scalable way to manage all communication needs in one place.
Features of Cloud Communication Platform
When selecting a cloud communication platform, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Voice communication: Facilitates phone calls over the internet, making it easier to connect with clients and team members globally.
- Video conferencing: Allows face-to-face meetings virtually, enhancing collaboration and reducing travel costs.
- Instant messaging: Enables real-time text communication for quick exchanges and team discussions.
- File sharing: Provides a secure way to send and receive documents, supporting efficient collaboration.
- Call routing: Directs calls to the appropriate person or department, improving customer service and response times.
- Integration capabilities: Connects with existing tools like CRM systems to streamline workflows and data sharing.
- Analytics and reporting: Offers insights into communication patterns and performance, helping to optimize operations.
- Security safeguards: Protect sensitive communication data with encryption and compliance with regulations.
- Customization options: Allows users to tailor the platform to their specific needs and branding requirements.
- Scalability: Supports business growth by accommodating increasing users and data without sacrificing performance.
Benefits of Cloud Communication Platform
Implementing a cloud communication platform provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Improved collaboration: Video conferencing and instant messaging enhance teamwork by allowing real-time communication regardless of location.
- Cost savings: Internet-based calls and reduced travel needs lower operational expenses for your business.
- Increased flexibility: Scalability and customization options let you adjust the platform as your business grows and changes.
- Enhanced security: Security safeguards protect sensitive data, ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
- Better customer service: Features like call routing and integration with CRM systems help your team respond to customer inquiries more efficiently.
- Data-driven insights: Analytics and reporting provide valuable information to optimize communication strategies and improve performance.
Costs and Pricing of Cloud Communication Platform
Selecting a cloud communication platform requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in cloud communication platform solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Cloud Communication Platform
Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
Free Plan | $0 | Basic voice communication, limited messaging, and basic file sharing. |
Personal Plan | $5-$25 /user /month | Voice and video calls, instant messaging, and basic integration capabilities. |
Business Plan | $30-$60 /user /month | Advanced call routing, video conferencing, integration with CRM systems, and enhanced security. |
Enterprise Plan | $70-$120 /user /month | Customizable features, advanced analytics, priority support, and comprehensive security measures. |
Cloud Communication Platform FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about cloud communication platforms:
How does a cloud communication platform scale with my business?
Cloud communication platforms are designed to grow with your business. They offer scalable solutions that let you add users and features as needed. This flexibility means you can start small and expand without significant disruptions or additional hardware investments. Make sure to check the platform’s scalability limits to ensure it can accommodate your future growth.
Is cloud communication reliable for business use?
Cloud communication platforms are generally reliable, with many offering high uptime guarantees. Reliability depends on the provider’s infrastructure and your internet connection. Look for platforms with multiple data centers and redundancy measures to minimize downtime. It’s also wise to have a backup communication plan in case of internet outages.
How secure is a cloud communication platform?
Security is a top priority for cloud communication providers. Most platforms offer encryption for data in transit and at rest, along with compliance with industry regulations like GDPR. Evaluate the platform’s security features and ask about their compliance certifications to ensure they meet your business’s security standards.
Can cloud communication platforms integrate with other tools?
Yes, many cloud communication platforms offer integrations with popular business tools like CRM systems, email clients, and project management software. These integrations can streamline workflows by allowing data to flow seamlessly between systems. Check the platform’s integration capabilities and API support to ensure compatibility with your existing tools.
What costs should I expect with a cloud communication platform?
Costs can vary based on the features you need, the number of users, and any additional services. Most platforms offer tiered pricing plans, starting with basic features at a lower cost and increasing with more advanced capabilities. Be sure to consider setup fees, usage charges, and any potential hidden costs when evaluating pricing.
How can I ensure my team adopts the new platform effectively?
Successful adoption often depends on thorough onboarding and training. Look for platforms that offer comprehensive training resources, such as video tutorials, webinars, and live support. Encourage your team to explore these resources and provide feedback to address any challenges they face during the transition.
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