NEC Successfully Implements Zoom Phone to Cut Communication Costs by 70% for 110,000 Employees

NEC Transforms Communication with Zoom Phone Implementation

On September 18, 2025, NEC Corporation announced the successful implementation of Zoom Phone across its workforce of 110,000 employees in Japan, achieving a significant reduction in telecommunication costs. The company has managed to reduce communication expenses by approximately 70%, a testament to the efficiency of Zoom’s cloud-based phone service.

Founded in 1899, NEC has played a pivotal role in Japan’s ICT sector for over 125 years. Embracing the concept of being a 'Zero Client,' NEC harnesses its own advanced technologies to provide live knowledge and solutions back to society in areas such as communication, AI, biometric authentication, and cybersecurity. This philosophy drives their commitment to digital transformation (DX) across various sectors.

In the spring of 2025, NEC initiated the integration of Zoom Phone, transitioning from traditional on-premises PBX systems to cloud technology. The migration was completed in just about a year, emphasizing the company's commitment to modernizing its communication infrastructure.

The Necessity for Communication Reform at NEC

NEC's communication reform has been a gradual process. The first step involved creating a 'location-free environment' to facilitate seamless interactions across various settings. Zoom Meetings became the cornerstone of this shift, enabling better collaboration.

The next logical step was the cloud transition for PBX systems. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted challenges related to operating fixed-line telephones remotely, and the impending maintenance deadlines for on-premises PBX systems necessitated a change. The need to accumulate and analyze real-time communication data for AI integration further fueled the push towards cloud solutions. NEC also anticipated a growing demand for cloud-based PBX in the future.

Reasons Behind Choosing Zoom Phone

In 2023, NEC began evaluating replacements and opted for Zoom Phone for several compelling reasons:

1. Audio Quality: In testing, while many services delivered comparable quality under stable network conditions, Zoom Phone’s audio excellence stood out, particularly in unstable environments, such as home networks.

2. User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive UI allowed quick call transfers without the risk of misdialing or accidental disconnections.

3. Cost Optimization: Implementing Zoom Phone significantly reduced both initial investment and ongoing operational expenses compared to traditional PBX systems. Additionally, the unlimited storage of call data and integration of Zoom’s AI features, such as the 'Zoom AI Companion', played a crucial role in decision-making.

Achievements from the Widespread Adoption of Zoom Phone

Prior to rolling out Zoom Phone, NEC conducted a thorough analysis of existing PBX systems across its various locations, deploying dedicated personnel in each department to fine-tune functionalities based on specific needs. This careful planning enabled the company to achieve the transition for its 110,000 employees in an impressive timeline of about ten months, supported by Zoom’s technical expertise.

Post-implementation, employees can now manage calls that were once exclusive to fixed lines directly from their smartphones. Administrative teams have gained real-time insights into call usage, allowing for better management. Ultimately, NEC streamlined its internal operations by eliminating on-premises PBX and optimizing communication lines, culminating in a dramatic 70% reduction in overall telephony costs.

Data-Driven Decision Making with the Support of Zoom

Currently, NEC is advancing its communication reforms towards a new phase of 'data-driven × generative AI'. This approach aims to enhance daily efficiency with AI, combining organizational knowledge from internal stock data, including email histories and project documentation, with their proprietary AI tool, 'cotomi'.

The foundation of this knowledge architecture is secured through their partnership with Zoom, leveraging the real-time communication data gathered through Zoom’s platform. By integrating various services, NEC aims to generate new value, and their collaboration with Zoom will be pivotal in shaping an 'AI-native working style' going forward.

For further details, case stories and videos can be accessed through their official channels.

About Zoom

Zoom’s mission is to provide a frictionless AI-first work platform to facilitate infinite connections among people. With Zoom Workplace, teams can rebuild collaboration, enhancing productivity through features like the AI Companion. Their comprehensive suite of Business Services—including Zoom Contact Center—strengthens customer relationships throughout the entire lifecycle. Founded in 2011 and publicly listed (NASDAQ: ZM), Zoom is headquartered in San Jose, California. For more information, please visit zoom.com.