Microsoft unveils next generation communication tool

CEBU, Philippines – Technology software and services solutions giant Microsoft recently introduced its next generation communication tool called "Microsoft Lync."

Microsoft Lync is a single platform that integrates instant messaging, presence, audio, video, and web-conferencing and voice to bring people together in the ways they communicate best, with one interface that works with the applications businesses know and use today, and including Microsoft Office, Microsoft SharePoint, and Microsoft Exchange.

With today's changing operational set-up among companies, where employees are working outside the office to encourage productivity, Microsoft on the other hand is supporting this trend by introducing this all-in-one telecommunication's solutions.

With this, companies are expected to save not only on telecom cost, but also transportation, real estate and travel expenses, as physical presence in a meeting for instance, is no longer a necessity, as anyone can participate on the meeting, where-ever he is.

Microsoft executives led by Femee Cruz, the Information Worker Product manager for Microsoft Philippines, were here in Cebu to introduce this new platform to Cebu businesses.

Through Lync, Microsoft gives people more collaborative experience with HD (high definition) video, conference recording, and social features like status updates and activity feeds.

"With Lync, we are delivering on our vision to unify all of the modes of modern business communication," said Cruz.

She said Lync, transforms how people communicate and helps IT departments to evolve their infrastructure and enhance, if not eliminate, their traditional PBX systems to save money and time.

Worldwide customers including, the Estee Lauder Companies, Inc., Nikon Corporation, Marquette University, France Telecom, and Herreknect are deploying Lync 2010 to change the way they communicate, and transform their businesses while saving money.

In the Philippines, Microsoft is looking at providing this technology to the over 800 branches of LBC courier service nationwide. The company is also closely working with the Philippine Long Distance Telecom Company (PLDT) to roll out this platform.

According to a Total Economic Impact study by Forrester Consulting, for a composite organization, Lync 2010 offers a risk adjusted ROI (Return of Investment) of 337 percent, including US$6.35 million in hard cost savings over three years, with payback period of 12 months.

At present, there are more than 70 new devices and 34 new applications are being announced by Microsoft partners and hundreds of partners are getting ready and building their practice on Lync.

Likewise, more than 35 partners are announcing more than 100 new applications and devices specifically designed for Lync. Hardware products include a variety of headsets, webcams, Internet protocol phones, telepresence systems and USB endpoints optimized for Lync, from partners such as Polycom Inc., and Aastra Technologies Ltd. (FREEMAN)