PBX: IP-PBX in Demand

Trends
It has been indicated that the copper implants will start decreasing by 2015, and IP (fiber and wireless-Wi-Fi, WiMax, etc) usage will increase. And hence by that time most of the world is supposed to be on IP based communication.

Businesses and organizations of all sizes are entering a new phase in the adoption of IP communications; unified messaging and voice mail; customer contact; and audio, Web, and videoconferencing solutions. Until recently, the IP communications debate focused on whether it was a viable, "ready-for-prime-time" technology, but in the last few years this new technology has gained a strong foothold in the mainstream market.

As a result, the traditional EPABX has evolved from a TDM architecture to an IP architecture. The new IP architectured PBX systems are referred to as "IP-PBXs".

IP-PBXs utilize VoIP technology to packetize voice and switch it via an IP network. Since this is the same IP network on which data applications and IP-based video is carried, organizations see increased RoI. Thus, there is a shift from deploying multiple networks for voice, video and data to a converged IP network that transports IP based data, voice and video traffic.

How to Optimize the Network?
If the following points are addressed one can optimize their network using this future proof technology:

Is the LAN equipment designed to support an acceptable amount of availability?
Is the LAN configured with redundancy options?
Does the installed LAN and WAN equipment support QoS functionality?
Is an isolated VLAN configured exclusively for IP phones?
How are the IP phones going to be powered?
Can the IP Telephony traffic traverse certain firewalls and NAT devices?
Is mobility desired, and if so, is the WLAN sufficient?

How to Select a Vendor?
One must ensure that the vendor is a name of repute and reliable. Do not get worried away by cheap solutions that claim that they are IP-PBX systems-and turn out to be TDM systems with only IP phones connected to it in turn. Backward and forward compatibility is a must. There should be a clear process and path for upgrades and migration. The installation, which accounts for major costs and troubles as well if done improperly, should be done by a certified installer/ integrator who has a lot of experience. Reference checks should be done and testimonials should be demanded which prove the vendor and installer's experience in the domain. Lastly, do not deploy a hybrid or IP-PBX system just for the heck of having the latest technology unless you have a need or it may burn a hole into your pocket. One must utilize the benefits offered in full for only then they make a wise investment decision.

Depending on the industry and their customer demands, an organization may evaluate vendors on the following parameters to improve productivity and effectiveness:

Real time applications such as voice and video calls quality
Messaging in terms of voice mail/email/unified messaging
Soft phones & SIP phones usage on the PBX
Rich presence engine and communication enabled business process
Conferencing (audio, video and Web)
Mobility and collaborative solutions

The approach followed by Indian enterprises in adopting IP-PBXs usually falls in the following categories:

End of life of their existing EPABX
Lack of scalability on their existing EPABX
New facility
Need for productivity enhancing applications
Increased need for collaborating (voice, video and data) at reduced cost

The PBX market is growing. Like most technologies, India shouldn't take long to catch up and possibly surpass international markets in terms of growth and acceptance to the new technology. In India, both enterprises and PBX players face some regulatory constraints. Although the government has announced a single infrastructure, complete convergence has not yet been achieved. At present, enterprises cannot interconnect calls between PSTN and CUG. Hence, inspite of single infrastructure, ease of communication is not yet possible.

Baburajan K
baburajank@cybermedia.co.in