Unified communications or UC is the integration of various communication channels (including IM, email and voice) into one user interface.  The general consumer example of this would be Skype.  From a business viewpoint Microsoft Lync is becoming the Unified Communications client of choice. Many organisations have already implemented this and others are expected to follow suit within the next 2-3 years.

This type of communication has been proven to increase productivty by reducing wasted time and maximising the methods of communication between colleagues and customers. Unified Communication implementation can start at using your PC with your telephony system to maximise your availability on different communication channels.  Some companies have implemented Unified Communications comprehensively (the integration of telephony, PC, mobile, email, IM and others).  This allows these respective organisations to reach new levels of productivity by being able to communicate wherever you are through a variety of devices.

Once you have Unified Communications in place it is important to select the right headset for your needs.  Headsets free up your hands and will allow you to work while on the phone.  This increase in productivity coupled with the benefit of UC will see you gain a return on investment in no time at all.  Click here to take a look at our Unified Communications headset buying guide.