Meridian Drastically Cuts OPEX Costs While Eliminating Technology Barriers with Vertical + 8×8

Background

Meridian is a nonpartisan center for diplomacy, founded in 1960 and headquartered on a historic campus in Washington, D.C. The organization empowers the next era of leaders to advance diplomacy for a better future.

Meridian struggled with an increasingly expensive communications solution that slowed operations and frustrated the team. Their old system was bulky, imposed arbitrary feature limitations, and refused to integrate with their software. These obstacles prevented their team from working efficiently, so they issued an RFP to find a better option.

Vertical stepped in and proposed moving Meridian to the cloud with 8×8 powered by V8 in tandem with 8×8’s Microsoft Teams integration. This solution drastically reduced costs and delivered a more robust set of features, bringing seamless connectivity back to Meridian’s team.

Cost Efficiency and Future Growth

Switching to 8×8 cut Meridian’s telecom expenses in half while improving service quality and functionality. Even while spending significantly less per month than before, their team benefits from superior features without the previous system’s bulky frustrations. Meridian is exploring new 8×8 applications and integrations to optimize operations. Their proactive approach strengthens both their nonprofit initiatives and their for-profit arm.

Vertical provided exceptional service throughout the process. The promises that were made at the very beginning – Vertical hit all the deadlines and estimates.

Kevin Trotter, Senior Director of Operations, Meridian International

Seamless Implementation and Support

Vertical mapped out a clear implementation plan and guided Meridian through every step. The transition followed a structured roadmap that kept the team focused and ensured an efficient rollout.

Vertical’s dedicated PMP Certified PM kept calls organized. Vertical’s SVP of Customer Experience worked closely with Meridian to oversee integration. And a dedicated Solutions Engineer set up the equipment on-site. Each expert played a vital role in executing the plan flawlessly. The Vertical Difference ensures that the same people Meridian got to know during the RFP and install process will be with them throughout their entire relationship with Vertical.

With Vertical’s hands-on, personal-touch, Meridian gained a reliable and responsive communication system that grants them the freedom to operate without disruption. With the Vertical Difference, Meridian will always receive first class, personalized care.

Enhanced Communications and Mobility

Meridian’s team now communicates effortlessly with the 8×8 Cloud Communications solution and Microsoft Teams integration. Staff can place and receive calls using their business numbers from any location with the 8×8 desktop or mobile application. They leverage tools like 8×8/Teams video conferencing, chat, SMS and team collaboration to streamline workflows and enhance engagement. These features allow the team to work more efficiently, whether supporting global diplomacy projects or coordinating cultural exchange events.