Predictions 2009: What's In Store For Unified Communications?

2008 saw most firms finally understand what unified communications (UC) means. Now, the conversation has shifted to the specific value UC provides firms — particularly in a tight economic environment. Today and into 2009, we expect UC trials at firms to continue to prove and showcase the value of UC. What do we expect in 2009 for UC? A merged market between UC and collaboration, even more trial activity, business executives getting more involved with UC selections and deployments, IT managers continuing to demand interoperability based on standards, and UC managed service adoption. All these elements support growth to a $2.8 billion market by the end of 2009 — even amid economic uncertainty.