Office Communication Server [1] (OCS) is finally here. After the sort of anticipation last seen for the iPhone, OCS is ready to change the IP PBX market. Should you change your existing purchasing plans? Not yet, say many experts. While Microsoft entering any market can lead to significant change, substantial change in the VoIP world will take time and multiple versions. Keep your options open, but don't be afraid to make a move--that's the word from multiple experts.
Initially, look for integration between OCS and IP PBX systems. In the long term, OCS will likely move out on its own, but the length of transition will depend on many factors, only some of them within Microsoft's control.
For more:
SearchVoIP has the launch analysis here [2]
Related articles:
Microsoft CIO speaks out about VoIP News [3]
Unified comms coming to SMB Report [4]
Links:
[1] http://www.fiercevoip.com/story/nortel-welcomes-microsofts-ocs/2007-10-15Microsoft
[2] http://searchvoip.techtarget.com/originalContent/0,289142,sid66_gci1277083,00.html
[3] http://www.fiercevoip.com/story/microsoft-ceo-speaks-out-about-voip/2006-11-07
[4] http://www.fiercevoip.com/story/unified-communications-coming-smb/2007-10-15