Article

Say What?

UC is an evolving communications technology architecture which automates and unifies all forms of human and device communications in context, and with a common experience. Its purpose is to optimize business processes and enhance human communications by reducing latency, managing flows, and eliminating device and media dependencies.
- Wikipedia

UC encompasses all forms of call and multimedia/cross-media message-management functions controlled by an individual user for both business and social purposes. This includes any enterprise informational or transactional application process that emulates a human user and uses a single, content-independent personal messaging channel (mailbox) for contact access.
- International Engineering Consortium

Unified communications for AT&T means the ability to flexibly and seamlessly communicate, collaborate and interact, regardless of device, modality, network or location. This involves unifying technologies, such as presence, instant messaging, IP telephony, conferencing and business applications, and making them easily accessible from the desktop, from mobile devices or the Web. Integral to the value of UC is the ability for colleagues to collaborate more quickly internally, as well as externally, with customers, suppliers and partners.
- AT&T

IDC defines unified communications as a software infrastructure platform that consolidates directory, routing and management of communications across a growing set of applications. These applications can include advanced IP telephony calling and management; Web, audio and videoconferencing; instant messaging; and pervasive presence management and awareness.
- IDC

UC is the use of software, hardware and network technology, along with the appropriate training and procedures, to help companies of all sizes manage business transactions and projects, providing an integrated, consistent communications experience for users, resulting in optimized business processes and results.
- UCstrategies.com

Unified communications has the potential to dramatically simplify and improve enterprise communications, as well as improve business agility. By integrating various forms of communications, such as voice, video, instant messaging, conferencing, presence and voicemail, individuals can more effectively control and manage their inbound and outbound communications sessions. Enterprises further stand to benefit from communications-enabled business processes, whereby the integration of communications services with enterprise business applications and processes enables enterprises to leverage business intelligence and presence awareness to improve agility and responsiveness.
- Nemertes Research