Convergence is one of the most significant trends in communications systems today. You can converge your voice and data communications using today's new IP (Internet Protocol)-based communications systems.

Making the move to convergence using an IP-based communications solution can have a revolutionary impact on your business-but the change itself does not have to be disruptive. BCM can help you make the move to convergence at your pace, based on your needs.

IP-based Communications Systems
Today's new IP-based communications systems go beyond traditional key and PBX systems by taking advantage of Internet Protocol (IP) to route voice calls over data lines, the same way that a computer sends information. That means an IP-based system can connect to your data network - it does not need its own phone lines. In effect, your voice communications "converges" with your e-mail, data and Internet communications.

Having just one network for all your voice and data communications is just the beginning of how an IP-based system benefits your business. Far more important are the wide range of applications for customer service and messaging that you can now take advantage of to make your business more efficient, effective and responsive.

Business efficiency-Converged networks save time by simplifying access to information because your voice communications and your data systems can now work together. For example, an incoming call from an existing customer can automatically trigger a search of your customer database so that a screen full of information about that customer-e.g., pending orders, special needs, etc.-is delivered along with the call. No more hunting around for a customer file or wondering who the customer last talked to-the information is right there on the screen.

Efficiency and Collaboration-With a converged system you can take advantage of enhanced communications capabilities like unified messaging (getting your voice mail and e-mail together; forwarding voice mail as e-mail) and large, impromptu conference calls that before would have required an outside teleconferencing service. By simplifying common tasks and collaboration, a converged communications system improves service and empowers employees to do more in less time each day.

Centralization-Convergence allows business to take control of their operations from a single management point, enabling centralized call answering, even for remote/branch offices.

Infrastructure Savings-Savings in reduced network charges and reduced costs for moves, adds and changes. Phones can be added or moved from place to place on the network, bringing all their features along with them.