In our 7 Dimensions of Communication Flexibility and Control blog series, we’ve explored the crucial elements that build agile and effective communication infrastructure. Today we cover the criticality of the deployment model and how it significantly impacts operational efficiency, scalability, and commercial performance. Rather than pursuing a one-size-fits-all approach, organizations are increasingly adopting mixed-deployment strategies that combine different models to create optimized hybrid environments. This perspective explores key considerations for decision-makers.
The Value of a Thoughtful Deployment Approach for Communications
The power of a hybrid cloud communication strategy lies in its ability to combine deployment models that align with organizational priorities. Each option influences critical factors like governance, scalability, cost, and security. As AI becomes more integral to communications, hybrid strategies gain importance—enabling both centralized AI processing while supporting real-time AI responsiveness at the edge. A well-chosen deployment mix can turn communication infrastructure into an operational advantage—offering the flexibility to balance control with agility while staying resilient. To begin making that decision, let’s review each deployment model and how they function within a hybrid cloud communication strategy.
"The most successful organizations today aren't choosing between deployment models—they're strategically combining them. By thoughtfully matching each workload to the right deployment approach, companies create communication environments that deliver both the control and flexibility needed in today's dynamic working landscape. This hybrid philosophy allows organizations to protect existing investments while still embracing innovation exactly where it matters most."
— Jan Hickisch, VP of Solution Marketing, Mitel
Communication Deployment Models in Context
On-Premises: A deployment approach where your communications systems reside entirely within your organization's physical facilities or at the edge and is managed by your internal IT team. This model provides complete control over hardware selection, software configurations, upgrade schedules, and security protocols. On-premises deployments excel in environments with specific regulatory compliance requirements, established infrastructure investments, or unique integration needs that demand direct system access. While requiring capital expenditure and dedicated IT expertise, modern on-premises solutions now offer containerized architectures and open APIs that enable strategic integration with cloud services—creating flexible hybrid environments that preserve control while incorporating cloud innovations where beneficial.
Mitel offers a comprehensive portfolio of on-premises communication platforms designed to meet diverse organizational requirements, backed by our expert professional services team and global partner network that ensures optimal deployment, integration, and ongoing management tailored to your specific objectives.
Public Cloud: A deployment model where communication services are delivered through shared cloud infrastructure managed by specialized providers. Public cloud solutions eliminate capital-intensive hardware investments, offering rapid scalability, automatic updates, and consumption-based pricing. These solutions typically follow either a multi-tenant model—where multiple organizations share the same cloud instance with logical separation—or a single-tenant model, which provides a dedicated instance for greater control and customization. While multi-tenancy maximizes efficiency and cost-effectiveness through shared resources, single tenancy offers more predictable performance and security assurances. Regardless of the model, public cloud deployments excel in standardized communication workflows, team collaboration, and mobility scenarios. The model’s flexibility makes it particularly valuable within hybrid architectures, where it can complement private infrastructure by addressing fluctuating demand, supporting innovation initiatives, or serving specific business units with distinct requirements.
Mitel's strategic partnership with Zoom delivers an AI-first, hybrid unified communications solution that combines enterprise-grade voice capabilities with industry-leading collaboration tools, giving organizations a seamless public cloud experience without compromise.
Private Cloud: A dedicated environment where your communications infrastructure operates exclusively within your organization's-controlled data center, whether on-premises or at a remote location. This deployment model offers maximum security, compliance capabilities, and complete customization to integrate seamlessly with existing IT ecosystems. Private cloud deployments provide granular control over all system aspects, from hardware selection to software configuration, while still delivering cloud-like benefits such as resource pooling and operational efficiencies. Within hybrid architectures, private cloud components typically host mission-critical or sensitive communications workloads requiring heightened security, specific compliance adherence, or specialized performance parameters.
Mitel's industry-leading private cloud solutions deliver uncompromising security with geo-redundant architectures that ensure business continuity, while providing the expertise to optimize your communications environment for your unique operational requirements.
Partner-Hosted Cloud: A deployment model where your communications infrastructure is managed and operated within a specialized cloud service provider's environment (such as Oracle, AWS, or Azure). These partners maintain the physical data centers while offering industry-specific expertise, customization options, and dedicated support services. Partner-hosted solutions deliver the scalability and flexibility of cloud computing combined with tailored configurations that address unique business requirements. In hybrid architectures, these deployments complement on-premises systems and other cloud services by providing specialized capabilities, technical expertise, and optimized performance for specific workloads or business units while maintaining seamless integration across your entire communications ecosystem.
Working together with Mitel certified IaaS providers, our partner-hosted cloud solutions leverage trusted providers while delivering our communications expertise, allowing your organization to maintain customized deployments with the perfect balance of control and convenience.
Mitel Secure Cloud: Mitel Secure Cloud is a fully managed, private cloud communication solution designed for enterprises that need flexibility without giving up control. Built on a dedicated architecture, it supports tailored deployment models including bring-your-own-carrier, hybrid integrations with on-premises systems, and phased migrations, ensuring its fit into complex IT environments. Deep integrations with tools like Zoom and Microsoft Teams keep workflows connected, while the managed service model handles updates, compliance, and operational oversight. With flexible pricing and deployment aligned to your structure, Mitel Secure Cloud helps you modernize on your terms without sacrificing performance, security, or governance.
The “Deployment Model” is a key factor within Mitel’s 7 Dimensions of Communication Flexibility and Control framework, providing a strategic approach to aligning your communication infrastructure with enterprise objectives. By carefully considering the pros and cons of each — on-premises, cloud, partner-hosted, or a mixed combination—organizations can create a flexible and resilient communication ecosystem that meets current needs and anticipates future challenges and opportunities.
As we continue this journey, our next and final exploration will be into Commercial Options, examining the various investment and purchasing choices available to support both your communication and procurement strategies.
