THE ONGOING TELECOM industry hype makes unified communications sound like it will cause seismic shifts across the business world, says market research firm In-Stat.
But, in the long run, some grandiose predictions may prove accurate because definitions of unified communications are so broad, with reports on uptake quoting big numbers, such as 50% of enterprises evaluating, installing, or running unified communications applications, says a new In-Stat report.
However, even baby steps, such as a unified messaging installation or a web conferencing subscription, are being counted in those reports
"Real transformational changes will take more time, perhaps even a generation, to accomplish," said David Lemelin, In-Stat analyst, in the release. "But, it’s possible that a new generation, dubbed ‘Millennials,’ bringing to the workplace communications habits formed in their early years (text messaging, social networking, blogging, etc.), portends more rapid adoption."
In-Stat also found:
* Worldwide unified communications product revenues will reach $18 billion in 2012.
* In-Stat’s survey of VoIP users demonstrates messaging is the most mature aspect of UC.
* Conferencing is the most compelling near-term opportunity for providers.
