Over the last few years, the need for plug-and-play has evolved and grown. With hybrid and remote working becoming the new norm for many businesses and users, new challenges have to be overcome. JPL’s software last approach does this.
What is software last?
‘Software last’ means that you do not have to download software to be able to set up and use the device. In other words, they become plug-and-play. JPL first started this approach after we found that during the pandemic the sales of the BL-053+P cable had increased dramatically, this was due to the cable not including the call accept and reject functionality on the inline control. After further investigation, it was found that over 80% of the online research group were happy to use the mouse to answer and end calls on their computer rather than their headset. JPL also found that many did not have the need for specifically certified buttons on the product, as these devices could be transferred between any major softphone. Using this research JPL focused on designing cables, headsets, video conferencing solutions and accessories using this outlook. Bringing about the range of software last.
Benefits of the software last approach
The software last design gives the user a range of benefits:
Easy deployment
Any sizable deployment of hardware can be difficult to install for a number of reasons; time to download software, stress on IT departments dealing with enquiries, hardware and technical issues. It can get very overwhelming. Plug-and-play devices can help avoid many of these issues by taking the pressure off IT departments. The employer can simply hand out the devices and the user will just need to plug in and start their day. Saving time and resources.
Less technical issues
On a similar note, plug-and-play will help to reduce technical issues. As there is no software to download it has a reduced risk of having conflicts with existing software you already have downloaded on your computer. Reducing the need for IT departments or JPL to troubleshoot any issues. In the event, the device does encounter a problem JPL do offer technical support with remote upgrades if needed.
Security
Downloading any software onto your computer comes with its risks. All 3rd party software comes with the risk of malware, viruses, overwhelming notifications and software conflicts. Trusting sources can be difficult for many businesses and IT departments. With the software last approach and plug-and-play products, these issues are resolved.
Compatibility
As we have not included call control features, 3rd party software or specifically designed softphone buttons, this allows the devices to be compatible with all major softphones. This includes softphones such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, RingCentral, and many more.
Ideal for all sectors
We are aware that due to restraints on downloads within certain sectors that the choice of devices is limited. Removing the need for software allows for all software last devices to be used within the education, military, government, banking and healthcare sectors.
JPL’s USB Headsets, Video Conferencing Solutions and Selected USB bottom Leads Follow this Approach.
All our USB headsets and video conferencing solutions are compatible with all known softphones such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom and Ring Central. With JPL’s software last approach no downloads are required on installation. Making them plug and play with your choice of UC device.
Bottom Leads for JPL Wired Headsets
No Buttons / USB 2.0 / PLX QD
SSP: $29.95 ex VAT
USB 2.0 / PLX QD
SSP: $30.95 ex VAT
USB 2.0 / PLX QD
SSP: $42.95 ex VAT
USB-C / PLX QD
SSP: $48.95 ex VAT
Universal USB-A bottom lead that converts your QD headset into a softphone headset
SSP: $49.95 ex VAT
Microsoft Teams compatible desk base dock for the BL-055+P and BL-056+P for users who prefer to have their headset controls firmly sat on their desk.
SSP: $42.95 ex VAT
You can also Watch JPL’s Video on the Software Last Approach.
Contact Us
Want to find out more about JPL’s software last approach, then contact JPL and one of our advisors will be able to help you.
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Technical Support and General Enquiries
For help and advice on our products, technical support, or general enquiries you can visit our support pages where you can find our FAQs, videos, manuals and guides. You can also contact JPL via the form opposite, by live chat, by phone, or by email.