Unified Messaging
Cisco Unity is designed for an IP environment and complements
the full range of IP communications solutions (for example, Cisco Unified
CallManager, Cisco Personal Assistant, and Cisco IP Contact Center). Cisco Unity
provides advanced capabilities that unify data and voice. Cisco AVVID enables
Cisco Unity to provide a solid foundation to roll out future convergence-based
communications services. IP is less expensive to use for a comprehensive
communications solution deployment because it is a single network for both voice
and data. Figure B-11 shows an example
of this type of unified messaging system.
Cisco Unity leverages existing communications infrastructure
investments by integrating with leading legacy PBXs and interoperating with
existing voice mail systems. Cisco Unity supports legacy PBX systems and Cisco
Unified CallManager, paving the way for a cost-effective migration to full IP
telephony. Cisco Unity has an optional Audio Messaging Interchange Specification
analog (AMIS-a) networking module that allows message interchange between
disparate voice messaging systems that support this industry-standard messaging
protocol. Cisco Unity Bridge enables advanced message interchange functionality
with Avaya and Octel voice messaging systems. With AMIS-a and Cisco Unity
Bridge, customers who deploy Cisco Unity can continue to use their existing
messaging systems to ensure a smooth transition.
Because Cisco Unity shares the same directory as the Microsoft
Exchange network3, users can make subscriber moves, adds, and changes from one
place, eliminating redundant tasks. Studies show that the average cost of a
typical system move, addition, or change to a user account is between $75 and
$100. Eliminating duplicate administration for separate voice and e-mail systems
can quickly pay for the entire system. In addition, because all messages are
housed in the same message store, backup costs are reduced.
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