Adoption of IP telephony (IPT) is not a matter of if companies will replace their legacy voice communications system, but when is the best time to do so. The right time to upgrade to IPT should be based not on technology alone, but also on a company’s business objectives. Convergence of voice and data lays the foundation for advanced communication functionality, simplified management, and potential cost savings. However, IPT is not without risks, which include organizational restructuring and network upgrade investments, security, and cost overruns. Keep both in mind as you plan for timing. Expect voice communications to operate in a hybrid environment that supports both TDM and IP during the next several years.
