Why You Should Look For Microsoft Lync-Certified Solutions9.27.2012 SMBs who are constantly on the search for the latest and greatest technology to remain competitive have found that implementing Microsoft Lync into their existing networks can bring highly sought-after advantages, but the process can be extremely challenging. One company makes it easy and cost-efficient to install Lync – even if you’re not ready to replace your existing network.  By Allison Boccamazzo, TMCnet Web EditorFor a small- to medium-sized business (SMB) that is seeking new and innovative equipment, the idea is almost impossible considering the effort and empty wallet which usually comes with the process. Replacing equipment may be the most exhausting task for a business of any size, and to think that it can’t be made easier is silly concerning today’s age of rapid and seemingly overnight technological advancements. SMBs who are constantly on the search for the latest and greatest technology to remain competitive have found that implementing Microsoft Lync into their existing networks can bring highly sought-after advantages, but the process can be extremely challenging. For any SMB with non-compliant SIP phones, non-compliant IP-PBX, public switched telephone network (PSTN) lines, analog phones, integrated services digital network (ISDN) phones or fax, replacing their existing or incompatible equipment with new Lync-certified equipment is usually too expensive and inconvenient in the long run. The operative word, however, is “usually,” as one company completely erases all of these issues typically faced with Lync-integration, making it easy and cost-efficient to install Lync – even if you’re not ready to replace your existing network. Patton takes pride in its Microsoft Lync certification to be able to provide a self-described “gateway to Microsoft Lync.” Its SmartNode VoIP Gateway, for example, enables SMBs to connect incompatible SIP endpoints, PSTN lines and legacy telephony to their Lync environment for increased efficiency and productivity – all without having to suffer from heavy costs. Glen Flowers, product marketing manager at Patton (News - Alert), explains how small- to medium-sized enterprises can specifically find some challenges with this highly desirable solution, but how Patton directly address this. “Unified Communications makes some mouth-watering promises for businesses of all sizes, yet a lot of companies might feel like they are on the outside looking in, especially small to medium enterprises (SMEs),” he explained. “[This also goes for] companies with investments in traditional voice systems that are working fine, and often are fully paid for or businesses that have already invested in new SIP phones and I-PBX software that may not be officially certified with Microsoft. SmartNode is the gateway that makes Lync accessible to all those organizations. Patton has made the investment to make it easy for our customers to climb on board the UC train and enjoy the ride.” The SmartNode Gateway provide SMBs with the ability to connect their legacy (analog or ISDN) telephones, fax machines, overhead paging speakers, etc. to their Lync Server, allowing them to make this transition at their own pace as funds become readily available. This kind of flexibility is priceless when it boils down to the benefits users will see when being able to work with such unprecedented agility.  Furthermore, the SmartNode Gateway can be used to connect non-compatible analog ISDN and IP telephony from remote offices to your Microsoft Lync Server in your headquarters for even more flexibility and productivity. Patton truly puts the customer first with its Microsoft Lync-Certified SmartNode product line, which ensures that customers will be satisfied by encompassing all levels of specific business needs. To learn more about Patton’s Microsoft Lync-Certified SmartNode product line, click here. Patton will be exhibiting at the ITEXPO West 2012 at booth #1014. To be held Oct. 2-5 at the Austin Convention Center in Austin, TX, ITEXPO (News - Alert) offers an educational program to help corporate decision makers select the right IP-based voice, video, fax and unified communications solutions to improve their operations. |
