Avaya introduces modular and networked messaging

Avaya introduced new messaging solutions this week designed to provide a flexible migration path to an IP infrastructure and networking capabilities to geographically diverse customers. Avaya’s Modular Messaging and Message Networking introduction coincides with the latest release of its Unified Communications Center.

Avaya’s Modular Messaging uses separate servers for voice applications and message storage so enterprises can share message storage servers using either IP or traditional telecom connectivity.

“Not everyone is ready to move to IP-based messaging or IP telephony, so we provide a compelling evolutionary path that allows people to move at a pace they are comfortable with,” said Nithya Ruff, director of product management, IP messaging at Avaya.

Modular Messaging software runs on Avaya’s S3400 messaging server and can support up to 50,000 users. The IP connectivity makes the system interoperable with Aria, Serenade and Audix voice messaging systems as well as its own Octel and Intuity products. It currently supports the following convergence standards: SMTP/MIME, VPIM, IMAP4 and Q.SIG, and integrates with standard LDAP directories.

Avaya’s Message Networking software allows enterprises to connect messaging systems in different locations such as branch offices or virtual offices. The messaging software runs on Avaya’s S3210 server. The combined solution starts at around $9000. But more important to enterprises will be the investment protection that networked messaging provides.

Perhaps Avaya’s biggest push will come from its latest Unified Communication Center release (UCC version 1.1). The UCC was launched in June of last year. The new release includes capabilities for seamless access to messages through speech, Web or wireless portals.

“This makes it easier for organizations to connect messaging infrastructures across increasingly virtual and distributed companies,” Ruff said.

The UCC provides a single platform for managing various messaging and business productivity solutions. It acts as a multi-modal access layer between communications services and capabilities such as Find Me/Follow Me, presence and conferencing and business applications such as voice messaging, e-mail, calendars and directories, call processing, and CRM applications.

“The future of messaging has to be about driving the improvement of key business processes across virtual enterprises,” Ruff said. “We cannot afford to be a stand-alone voice island sitting on the side and not participating in the core of the business.”