The generation of switches acquired in the early 2000s is now reaching end of life (and, in many cases, end of support from vendors). So, those responsible for voice infrastructure should be considering their options, within the context of a rapidly evolving communication environment.

The switching landscape has changed significantly within the last decade. Multichannel communication is the norm and, as a result, customer interactions are already becoming a lot more complex. The focus now is on integrating multiple channels, such as SMS, web chat, email social media and, of course, voice; streamlining inbound and outbound communication for a single “360 degree” customer view.

Having the ability to support diverse communication channels as well as burstable capacity (for peak flows e.g. Clearing) are just two pressure points that universities really need to consider, as they weigh up the options for IP migration.

Managing the pace of change

With legacy platforms reaching end-of-life deadlines, it has become much harder for organisations to change to these constantly adapting market conditions. The teams responsible for these systems are understandably reluctant to add new multimedia applications to the legacy switch but, given the pace of change and customer expectations, this is an untenable position to maintain.

However, the ‘rip and replace’ IP migration path often recommended by infrastructure vendors also makes it difficult for universities to move forward. This “one stop shop” approach can be appealing: the promise of simplified deployment, single accountability, centralised management and lower costs. But it automatically cuts off any forward flexibility by locking universities in with one supplier.

C3 support clients taking a phased approach to migration, making it possible for them to sweat out their existing switch investments with new applications that are relevant to their user-base and can simply be migrated across to IP.Taking this granular approach encourages pick-and-mix application deployment.

Not only is this more cost effective, it also gives buyers the flexibility to adopt a wide range of applications from specialised ‘best of breed’ suppliers who can offer strong technological leadership and more advanced solutions to satisfy changes in legislation e.g. such as PCI DSS Compliance for credit card payments.

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The PBX has been “dead” for years if you believe analysts in the communications industry. But with vendors who’ve made the PBX a staple in their product line finally ceasing development and support for their PBX products, the system does look finally near extinction.

Siemens, for example, has stated that they will no longer provide support on the ISDX after 2017. There will, of course, be some suppliers who can provide first line maintenance, but this will not be backed by any support from Siemens as the manufacturer.

PBX phone systems have always been one‐dimensional and unable to match the functionality and flexibility of modern IP telephony. So, replacing outdated PBX equipment is an opportunity to migrate enterprise infrastructure to IP.

Phased approach or total rip and replace?

However, there aren’t many businesses that can toss out their entire communications system and migrate to a new IP solution in one fell swoop. While the PBX is still functional and familiar to users, there is understandably a deep resistance to rip and replace.

Instead, most enterprises still see IP Telephony as an adjunct to their existing system. They plan to phase over gradually one application at a time, leveraging investment in their legacy PBX.

C3’s solutions are all TDM and SIP compliant, so leading-edge unified communication, collaboration and voice messaging technology can be deployed at any point in the migration pathway. Our open solutions help organisations benefit from new technology as well as extend the life of existing systems, driving down the total cost of ownership.

For more information about any of our products or for advice on migrating your kit to IP, please email sales@c3.co.uk.