The OpenTouch architecture uses a SIP-based conversation layer, which is between the applications layer and server layer, to deliver multi-party, multi-device, multi-media collaborative conversations on any network and on any end-point.
The company says OpenTouch delivers an innovative approach to communications that includes native conferencing capabilities, the ability to support mixed media, and enables users to move freely between any device all within the same conversation.
For example, a conversation can begin via instant messaging, voice or text, and be escalated to a video call or team collaboration session. The system lets any user easily add or remove multiple participants as well as make other media connections or links available to participants.
"Technology innovation continues to drive significant change in enterprise communications tools and techniques. OpenTouch enables enterprises and employees to take advantage of smart devices, video, and mobility with the ability to switch across channels and devices while maintaining one conversation," said Eric Penisson, General Manager of the Enterprise Communications solutions for Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise.
"With OpenTouch, we are the first to deliver to users an intuitive, seamless experience across all their devices and modes of communication."
With OpenTouch suite, enterprise IT staff benefit from unified management capabilities available through the new Alcatel-Lucent OmniVista 8770 Network Management System. This eliminates the multiple management systems currently needed to run unified communications and collaboration applications. As a result, users, applications, devices and networks can be managed from a single point, thus making new communication solution rollouts faster and easier.
OpenTouch is available in three packages:
The Alcatel-Lucent OpenTouch Business Edition (appliance server based) is an all-in-one communication server for the mid-market. It provides advanced telephony features with embedded unified communications capabilities such as unified messaging, instant messaging/presence, video, multimedia conferencing services, and mobility. All pre-integrated on a single industry standard appliance server, including OmniVista 8770.
The Alcatel-Lucent OpenTouch Business Edition Hosted is provided on a blade server platform, ideal for data center environments where the solution server sits in a blade system and can be deployed as a managed and/or hosted service. It delivers the same features and capabilities as the OpenTouch Business Edition premise version and features extended management functionalities.
The Alcatel-Lucent OpenTouch Multimedia Services is a software add-on to complement existing Alcatel-Lucent OmniPCX Enterprise communications servers. It enables customers to benefit from new conversation capabilities, while protecting their existing investments and provides a smooth migration path.
In addition, the OpenTouch suite supports the Alcatel-Lucent OmniTouch My IC Phone, a smart deskphone that enhances the user experience by offering smartphone capabilities, including applications, on the employee’s desk. My IC Phone runs on multiple communications platforms, including OpenTouch, OmniPCX Office R.8.1 and OmniPCX Enterprise R.10 for Hospitality.