UC
Microsoft and Polycom announced a broader strategic partnership around UC offerings, similar to the now defunct Nortel-Microsoft “Innovative Communications Alliance.” While Microsoft and Polycom have long partnered to integrate Polycom video products with Microsoft Office Communications Server (OCS) and for Polycom to supply stand-alone desktop phones compatible with OCS, this new announcement is focused on jointly developing new products, as well as jointly marketing and delivering solutions. This announcement reflects the reality of multi-vendor UC implementations. While lines continue to blur between VOIP and UC, most organizations rely on a mix of vendors for their UC initiatives. As a result, overcoming integration and management issues is key to a successful implementation. This announcement also should expand the ability of OCS buyers to integrate desktop video capabilities into existing room system deployments.
