Communications Server 14 News

Communications Server “14” is almost here and we are gradually finding out more and more about the product, save for what name Microsoft might eventually name it – maybe Communications Server 2010?
Whatever name they come up with, hundreds of hours of research have gone into making Communications Server “14” a fully collaborative product which connects employees, partners and customers at any time and in any place.
So here’s a look at the top 5 features of Communications Server “14”, as were outlined at the recent TechEd 2010 conference.

1) The Activity Feed - social networking is very much the future of the internet experience and many people have seized on the Facebook like nature of Communications Server “14”. The activity feed tells you what your colleagues are up to and whether they are available to work.
2) Integrating Communications Server “14” with Microsoft Office and Microsoft Sharepoint uses presence information to search for people and resources in the company.
3) The converged communications experience gives a single client experience for video and voice capabilities, data sharing and instant messaging.
4) Special search features. Not only can you search for colleagues using pictures and titles as part of your queries but you can also search for certain skills that you need, for instance to help complete a project.
5) Expect absolutely crystal clear video and voice throughout the office thank to the 720p HD webcam video over Communicator.
Not long to go now before Communications Server “14” will start shipping, are you as excited as I am?

Microsoft is looking to develop its expertise in the field of unified communications with the forthcoming OCS 14 product. Here are five ways in which OCS 14 will make your life easier.

1) Don’t want to subject people to awful renditions of Greensleeves on panpipes when they are on hold? Try the new call parking feature. This transfers the call to an unused line outside of the phone system, from which it can then be retrieved quickly and easily.
2) In emergencies the enhanced 911 feature of OCS 14 is bound to come in use as it allows emergency services to pinpoint your exact location. In times when you might find it hard to describe where you are, this is invaluable as the caller’s location and information is directly transmitted to the response team.
3) Ever get tongue tied on the phone? With OCS 14 that could be a thing of the past as you can enter contextual information on the caller ID, for instance ‘Nick calling to discuss latest marketing strategies’.
4) The simultaneous ring feature is very useful, as you can have the call ring on a number of phones so that you can pick it up at whichever is easiest. No more coffee spills as you run into the office to take that important call, it will ring on your mobile too.
5) If your eyes are getting tired and you don’t feel up to reading any more documents, then the voice-recognition software might well be your favourite feature. It allows you to transmit voice mails into an audio file which can then be accessed in your email or outlook folder, and listened to/or read.