Unified communications (UC) is a term used in business and telecommunication circles to refer to the integration of real-time communication services such as;  

• Instant messaging (chat), 
• Presence information, 
• Telephony (including IP telephony), 
• Video conferencing, 
• Call control and 
• Speech recognition with non-real-time communication services such as unified messaging (integrated voicemail, email, SMS and fax). 

  UC is not a single product, but a set of products that provide a consistent unified user interface and user experience across multiple devices and media types.   The goal of unified communications is to simplify communication and collaboration by providing a single interface for all forms of communication, whether it be voice, video, or data.    UC also aims to provide a consistent experience across all devices, whether it be a desk phone, PC, laptop, tablet, or smartphone.

Importance of Unified Communications for Businesses

In today’s fast-paced business world, the ability to communicate and collaborate quickly and easily is essential for success.    Unified communications provides a single platform that integrates all forms of communication, making it easier and more efficient for businesses to communicate and collaborate.   Some of the key benefits of unified communications for businesses include:   Improved Productivity: Unified communications can help businesses be more productive by making it easier and faster to communicate and collaborate.    For example, instant messaging and presence information can help employees quickly connect with colleagues who can help with a task or project.   Reduced Costs: Unified communications can help businesses save money by consolidating multiple communication tools into one platform.    For example, VoIP (Voice over IP) can replace traditional PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) telephony, and video conferencing can replace travel for in-person meetings.   Improved Customer Service:  Unified communications can help businesses improve customer service by providing tools that make it easier to connect with customers.    For example, VoIP can be used to route calls to the right person or department, and chat can be used to provide real-time customer support.

Unified Communications Systems

There are many different types of unified communications systems available on the market today.    Some of the most popular UC systems include Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM), Microsoft Lync, and Avaya Aura.   Each UC system has its own set of features and capabilities, so it’s important to choose a system that meets the specific needs of your business. 

Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM)

With Cisco’s integrated collaboration infrastructure for audio and video calling, messaging, and mobility, you can bring people together at any time, anywhere, and on any device.

Avaya Aura

Both large and small businesses can use the unified communications solutions provided by Avaya.    It provides a durable, dispersed network of gateways and analogue, digital, and IP-based communication devices in addition to delivering comprehensive voice and video capabilities.   There are many vendors offering unified communications solutions, and the products and features they offer can vary widely.    Some vendors focus on providing a complete UC solution that includes all the necessary components for a business, while others offer individual UC products that can be integrated into an existing IT infrastructure.   Some of the leading vendors of unified communications solutions include Cisco, Microsoft, Avaya, and IBM. Have any questions regarding the topic “What is Unified Communications? Systems, Devices and Services” feel free to comment below.