apps embedded in business applications. This capability has limited availability in the PBX model but is richly enabled in the open layered model. Similarly, there's no map from the PBX model to IP devices. Why? No PBX maker has been able to successfully produce one that has gained any market traction. 

Like its computing counterpart, the layered communications system model requires integration and management. The same approaches available to companies for managing layered computing -- in-house IT operations, systems integrators, hosted or cloud-based services -- apply to layered communications. In fact, most of the PBX vendors are acting as system integrators for their own products, using commercially available LAN/WAN, gateways, servers, and operating system software. However, they're selling and servicing the resulting package as proprietary PBX brands and models.

So what does this evolution in communications architecture mean for your company? In this continuing series of articles, you will learn how to: 

Enterprises in all industries have started embracing this new communications model to cut costs and improve their businesses. It can be a breakthrough for you, too. Stay tuned. 

Join Enterprise Connect for an intensive day-long series of sessions in a free event being held in New York focused on helping you design strategies for successful adoption and implementation of Microsoft's Lync. During this free program, we will help you evaluate Lync as a voice solution, address the challenges of integrating Lync into your existing UC architecture, and analyze total cost of ownership. Join your peers and leading vendor companies making Lync adoption possible in New York on June 24. Register for the Enterprise Connect Lync Tour today.