Unified communications (UC) is the integration of real-time communication services such as instant messaging (chat), presence information, IP telephony, video conferencing, general call control and speech control with non real-time communication services such as unified messaging (integrated voicemail, e-mail, SMS and fax).
UC is not a single product, but a set of products and some times also related services that provides a consistent unified user interface and user experience across multiple devices and media types.
UC also refers to a trend to offer Business process integration, i.e. to simplify and integrate all forms of communications in view to optimize business processes and reduce the response time, manage flows and eliminate device and media dependencies.
UC allows an individual to send a message on one medium and receive on another. It should be possible to easily transfer any activity or message to another medium. For example, one can receive a voice mail message and choose to access it through email or a cell phone. If the sender is online according to the presence information and currently accepts calls, the response can be sent immediately through text chat or video call. Otherwise, it may be sent as a non real-time message that can be accessed through a variety of media.
Digium Switchvox based Unified Communications
Fax
Send and receive faxes using Switchvox! You can use your fax machine, or fax files from your desktop computer. All incomming faxes can be directed strait to unified mailobx. Every user can receive incomming faxes to same number as for voice. Sysstem will sort it out and direct each media call to dofferent media user device/user agent.
Chat
The new Switchvox private chat server uses the XMPP protocol. The Switchboard offers a Chat Panel, or you can use your favorite XMPP-based client. E.g. user can chat from mobile devices like iPhone and other smart phones.
Video Calling
User can use video phones with Switchvox. Same simple way as voice SIP phones, any video phone can be conencted and used on Switchvox.
IMAP Mailbox
Each extension now has a one-stop IMAP Mailbox for voicemail and faxes. It comes ready made, IMAP server is part of Switchvox server.
Microsoft UC-OCS
Microsoft’s Unified Communications (UC)
Microsoft’s Unified Communications (UC) solutions use the power of software to streamline communication. Office Communications Server 2007 R2, one of the cornerstones of Microsoft’s UC solution, is the platform for presence, instant messaging, conferencing, and enterprise voice for businesses around the world.
Apply the revolutionary Phybridge UniPhyer in all situations where the existing phone wires can not be replaced with proper LAN wires, and there will be no reason to not migrate to SIP immediately. The Phybridge UniPhyer is the new standard for IP Telephony infrastructure. A Low-cost, risk free, robust, quick & easy VoIP enabler.
Digium SwitchVox®
Digium Switchvox® IP PBX
Switchvox is Digium's family of Voice Over IP Phone systems for small and medium businesses. Switchvox systems are designed to be easy to use, full of helpful features and cost less than a traditional PBX. Compare Switchvox SMB and Switchvox SOHO
RoI facts are the strongest argument in favour of SwitchVox UC gear.
Deployment of Switchvox innovative solution lets enterprise fully integrate all IT information sources and processes in an easy and intuitive manner. You get it all in the box including the easy customization and tailoring, almost by pure administration of parameters.
Now with affordable SIP phones. Yealink SIP phones are available from €50 and Grandstream already from €35.
