Unified messaging - A value-creating engine for next-generation network services

• Published in: Bell Labs technical journal Vol. 4; no. 2; pp. 71 - 87
• Main Authors: Parker, Martin F., Brunson, Gordon R., Barnett, W. J., Vaudreuil, Gregory M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York IEEE 01.04.1999; Wiley Subscription Services, Inc., A Wiley Company
• ISSN: 1089-7089; 1538-7305
• DOI: 10.1002/bltj.2165

Unified messaging provides seamless creation of, notification of, access to, and administration of all message types in different formats using a variety of access devices. It supports voice mail, e-mail, and fax messages in text, data, and binary formats. The access devices that carry unified messaging include the telephone, computer, personal digital assistant, and wireless handset. To be successful in network operations, a unified messaging system must satisfy the needs of both service providers and end users. The AnyPath Unified Messaging System, currently under development, is designed to meet all these needs along six dimensions. It offers the reliability and scalability required to support carrier-grade service, an intelligent networking (IN) capability to support the advanced functionality of the system, and seamless messaging across disparate networks and geographical entities. AnyPath's messaging services can bridge various types of messaging systems, administered by either the service provider or the end user, and personalize them down to the end-user level. The system also meets the financial goals of service providers by generating revenue and using investment protection methods. AnyPath achieves its six design goals while adhering to industry standards and leveraging best-in-class system components.