Formerly known as Office Communications Server 2007 Release 2 (R2), Lync Server 2010 is the next generation of Microsoft Corp’s UC server and software that enables businesses to connect in new ways, anytime, anywhere. Global Crossing is among a group of qualified SIP Trunking providers worldwide working with beta customers on SIP Trunking testing with Lync Server 2010.
“Global Crossing provides customers a portfolio of SIP Trunking services to complement their Lync deployments,” said Kirk Gregersen, senior director of product management, Microsoft Lync. ”We are pleased to be working with Global Crossing in bringing cost effective solutions to customers in transforming their communications.”
SIP Trunking is the enabling technology that network providers rely on when establishing a broad range of UC tools such as “presence” solutions. Lync Server 2010 allows end-users to access presence-based features such as sending and receiving instant messages from within Microsoft Word documents or SharePoint sites.
Global Crossing say their SIP Trunking solutions offer cost savings by eliminating the deployment and management of additional communications equipment. This simplified infrastructure increases productivity through easier-to-use communications tools and maximised bandwidth utilisation in a converged environment.
“We were one of the first service providers qualified for Microsoft’s communications platform,” said Dave Carey, Global Crossing’s chief marketing officer. “SIP Trunking provides us with a technical aptitude, reach, and customer service advantage that enables enterprises to migrate to the new server without service interruptions.”
According to IDC, a leading industry research firm, the U.S. SIP trunking services market is projected to surpass $1.47 billion in revenue by 2014, representing growth of 39.8 percent between 2009 and 2014.