Prior to the rush to Microsoft Lync, Broadvox was intending to extend its interoperability to latest release of Office Communications Server (OCS). However, we have now agreed with Microsoft engineers to complete interoperability testing on Lync. Interestingly, Wikipedia refers to Lync as the latest instantiation of OCS. Being in sales I sometimes use the excuse that I can’t keep up with all of the technology changes and need a sales engineer to engage prospects. However, when Microsoft decides to update OCS with a new product like Lync, then I have to take notice. The Lync Server is a single platform that can enhance, extend, and potentially replace traditional and IP PBX systems.

Lync came on to my radar as the result of a Master Agent (ABP Tech), OEM (AudioCodes) and customer enquiry. When three such diverse members of our IP ecosystem ask about the same thing in a matter of weeks, it must be gaining in momentum and importance. It also fits into the new Broadvox paradigm of supporting premise, hosted or hybrid environments, allowing our Partners to sell to green field and legacy infrastructures.

Microsoft summarizes Lync features as follows:

• Connected End User ExperienceDescriptionRichHTML1 with a single interface that unites voice communications, IM, and audio, video, and Web conferencing into a richer, more contextual offering.
• Find and communicate with the right person by adding and connecting with users on Public IM services such as Windows Live, AOL, and Yahoo! and communicate with them using their single work identity.
• Create a more fun work environment by building social connections with picture-enhanced presence, automatic frequent contacts lists, and activity feeds for keeping up with co-workers.
• Make every interaction a near face to face meeting by including high-resolution video, application, and desktop sharing and be fully present in meetings without making the physical trip.
• Communicate with context from Microsoft Office applications and other business applications, including color-coded presence icons, pictures, high-resolution video, and desktop sharing.
• Stay connected from virtually anywhere via a PC, phone, or Web so that users have the choice to connect from many devices.

Not bad for a list of general features but keep in mind that the real point of Lync is to provide an improved platform for Unified Communications supported by SIP Trunking, our bread and butter.

Good Selling!