Introduction

This chapter gives a comprehensive understanding of Unified Messaging and the components that make up this suite of services. We will talk about some real-world examples where Unified Messaging would be used, as well as show how to utilize the benefits of Voice Mail (VM) over IP in collaboration with fax and e-mail. Quality of Service (QoS) and how it factors in with Unified Messaging will also be covered in detail.

Cisco s latest Unified Messaging solution is derived from a company called Active Voice. Cisco purchased Active Voice in the fall of 2000 for its Unity software. Active Voice s Unity product will be replacing uOne as Cisco s Unified Messaging server because it offers a more complete solution. In fact, as of Call Manager 3.06, the port setup required to communicate to the Unity server is still denoted as a uOne port because Cisco technically is still selling the uOne product. More details about Unity, as well as its hardware platform requirements, will follow later in this chapter. We will also talk about the Unity scalability options.

We will discuss some of the software features and functionality offered through Active Voice, which enhance the AVVID architecture. Finally, we will examine how to configure Active Voice s Unity, and we will provide you with various examples of what you can accomplish in small and large corporate situations.

Understanding Unified Messaging

On its Web site, at this URL, www.activevoice.com/products/ phonesoft/lotus_wp.html, Active Voice defines Unified Messaging as An advanced message management solution for all...