Verizon details hybrid platform for fixed and mobile solutions in enterprise

Verizon Communications Inc., a parent of Verizon Wireless, has launched what it claims to be one of the industry’s first cloud-based unified communications systems with a mobile component.
With the launch of the new Unified Communications & Collaboration-as-a-Service platform, Verizon plans to deliver a wider suite of communication tools and capabilities to government and enterprise.
The commercial offering will enable customers in business and government to adopt UC&C in fixed and mobile environments. The system will allow for seamless call transfers from fixed to mobile phones and presence awareness, which will enhance communication formats like instant messaging, audio and video conference calls on the fly.
The mobile unified communications client component will be available with a docking station that gives workers the flexibility to swap out their traditional desk phone with a single device that can access all of the UC&C features, regardless of their location.
“We’re putting our leadership in cloud, UC&C and mobility to work for our customers,” Farooq Muzaffar, VP of enterprise network and communications solutions with Verizon. “It’s all part of our ‘everything-as-a-service’ strategy to help our customers achieve better business outcomes by making information and collaboration available virtually anywhere, anytime.”
Cisco Systems Inc. is providing Verizon with the cloud-based solutions from its Hosted Collaboration Solution. West Virginia is one of the first customers to trial an early version of the new system, which will be commercially available this spring.
The new Unified Communications-as-a-Service offering is also accessible on a variety of smart phones and tablets from various manufacturers and providers.