Microsoft Redefines Unified Communications

Unified communication is, um … actually, there are dozens of definitions. But during an Ingram Micro event this week in Nashville, Microsoft managed to deliver the clearest definition yet.

Imagine having one digital address book, one voice mail inbox and one login process across every mode of communication. That’s the very definition of unified communications, according to Steve Adams, National Technologist and Strategist at Microsoft.

The VAR Guy would add one important concept to that definition. It’s called “presence,” and the term describes how unified networks automatically route phone calls, voice mails, emails and instant messages to your current location and device–whether you’re in the office, at home or on the road. Cisco is one of the biggest proponents of so-called presence technology.