Abstract: While globalization can bridge distances and enhance communication, the story is a little different when it comes to wide area networks (WANs) and their effects on branch application performance. High-latency connections and chattiness cause slowed data transmission, and consequently, decreased user productivity. But there is light at the end of the tunnel: a fast branch office application delivery infrastructure.

Abstract: Customizing third-party “vendor” source code is becoming increasingly common. But managing the incorporation of vendor application releases alongside customizations requires an additional layer of software configuration management (SCM) to integrate subsequent vendor releases. Traditional branch-based SCM tools require an unnecessarily complex branch-and-merge process. However, there is a more intuitive and efficient parallel development model for managing customizations to vendor code.

Abstract: Delivering access to applications over the wide area networks (WANs) is now an essential aspect of any IT strategy to reduce total cost of ownership and improve return on investment. For example, server-based computing and server consolidation strategies can remove servers out of the branch offices to consolidate and centralize them in the data center, usually based on a virtualization infrastructure. Find out more.

Abstract: Looking for a new business phone system? To find a premise-based private branch exchange (PBX) solution that meets your needs, you should ask yourself several key questions about your current situation. Be sure to specify your business requirements up front to PBX providers—and know which you’re prepared to drop in return for a lower cost. This checklist can help you ask the right questions and keep track of the answers.

Abstract: A hosted Internet protocol private branch exchange (IP PBX) system can provide an easy way for small to medium businesses (SMBs) to move to voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) and get a new range of features and capabilities. While there are several IP PBX options, hosted applications are usually quicker and cheaper to install. Discover the critical features and services your SMB needs in a new hosted phone system.

Abstract: The days of telephone switchboard operators are long gone. In today's electronic age, through private branch exchange (PBX) technology, operators have been replaced with Internet protocols that automate the switchboard process. But how can you make the most of your modern phone system when you're not really sure how it works? Discover some tips and tricks that can help you understand—and optimize—your business phone setup.

Abstract: Today, more business than ever is done in branch offices or at remote sites, but very few IT resources are actually hosted there. To reduce costs, businesses often consolidate applications—but consolidation can lead to poor performance. With the right solution, however, acceleration techniques—like bandwidth management and protocol optimization—can be properly dispersed to remote applications, helping increase performance.

Abstract: At one time, only Fortune 500 companies could afford voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) private branch exchange (PBX) solutions. But that’s no longer the case: the VoIP cost barriers are gone. Find out if a VoIP solution is a sound choice for your small business—and discover how VoIP vendors are addressing the needs of small businesses while offering cost-effective hosted PBX solutions.

Abstract: With the advent of voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) and virtual private branch exchange (PBX), phone calls are treated more like e-mail—with no loss of connection quality. Now, are you looking to update with a phone system that can grow with you, and allow for a remote data center? Find out how to generate cost savings and productivity gains with these tips to modernizing your business phone system.

Abstract: Wholesale distributor United Pipe & Supply had a problem. Its use of standard Excel spreadsheets for reporting and budgeting was time-consuming, expensive, and dysfunctional. The company was losing control over content and reliability, simply unable to produce something as simple as profit/loss statements for multi-branch business units. Its ability to grow was hampered. United Pipe & Supply needed to change.

Abstract: Hosted private branch exchange (PBX) phone solutions are changing how small to medium businesses (SMBs) serve their customers, grow their business, and support their employees. Delivering the professional phone system capabilities large businesses use at a lower cost, hosted PBX is helping SMBs save money while putting their customer services on a par with much larger organizations.

Abstract: Upgrading to CRM solution increases value of relationships for financial services firm. ScotiaMcLeod (www.scotiabank.com) is the investment arm of Scotiabank, one of Canada's largest financial organizations with over $280 billion in assets. ScotiaMcLeod's financial advisors specialize in helping individuals and small business customers plan financial solutions for trusts, estate planning, borrowing and banking services. ScotiaMcLeod has more than 800 financial advisors working in 84 branches across the country. According to Chris Carter, Associate Director and Branch Manager for ScotiaMcLeod's North Vancouver office, the financial services sector is a people-driven business where customer service is critical to success.

Abstract: Internet protocol (IP) telephony is increasingly replacing traditional private branch exchange (PBX) technologies. But to replace their incumbent telephony systems, decision makers must look carefully at what’s available, what they’ve got, and what they need, before crafting a short list of candidates. This comparison guide from Focus Research is designed to help midsize and large enterprises do just that.

Abstract: Calculating the total cost of ownership (TCO) of an Internet protocol (IP) telephony system is complicated. And you need to know the return on investment (ROI). But knowing the TCO doesn’t make it easy to figure out the ROI—because the benefits of IP private branch exchange (PBX) aren’t easy to quantify. You can, however, get an idea of your ROI by knowing 10 ways a new IP phone system can repay the money you spend on it.

Abstract: If you’re considering upgrading your traditional phone system to a premise-based private branch exchange (PBX) system, there are a few things you need to know before you start talking to vendors. Find out whether your company needs just the basic features, or if you need more advanced functions such as programmable routing and scheduling. No matter the features, a premise PBX system can help you save money—learn how.