A growing number of Hosted business VoIP PBX providers are broadening their scope and becoming Hosted Unified Communications (UC) service providers. Business communications is no longer done exclusively via the telephone. Other UC components such as Instant Messaging, Presence, and Mobility are gaining on the telephone. Cloud-based Unified Communications service is an avalanche that’s about to roll. Wainhouse Research and In-Stat estimate the entire unified communications services market was $25.7 billion in 2008, growing at a compound

annual rate of 13.7% over the 5-year forecast period,
reaching $48.7 billion by 2012.

Unlike premises-based solutions, cloud-based com-
munications solutions require no hardware to install, no
software to buy and configure, and no expensive training
for additional in-house technical support staff. This
enables businesses to consolidate and outsource their
communications strategies for one predictable monthly
fee. Moreover, because the service uses an open standard,
businesses gain the flexibility to integrate communications
with their business processes and workflows.

Additional benefits of cloud communications:

• Quick and inexpensive to install and setup.
• No expensive equipment in the phone closet.
• Seamless integration of remote locations and
  telecommuters.
• Productivity-enhancing features: Remote Office,
  simultaneous ring, find/follow me, mobile features.
• Web portal for total control of user profiles from
  anywhere.
• Easy to add new employees or new offices.
• Easy to predict cost of growth.
• Technology enhancements and risks shouldered by the service provider.
• Maintenance, management and upgrades handled by the service provider.
• Energy efficient; Supports social responsibility initiatives.