UC still viable in vertical markets

Opportunities still exist for Unified Communication (UC) vendors within specific industry verticals, even in this volatile economic environment, says research firm, IDC.

In a new report, IDC forecasts a steady UC adoption rate will continue in 2009, as organisations look to reduce operational expenditure (OPEX) costs, while at the same time improve productivity and efficiency.

Growth will continue as a result of the opportunities following the initial migration of IP telephony adoption in Australian businesses since 2001, but strong growth is expected in particular verticals in 2009 due to a much needed technology re-fresh.

Verticals presenting the highest growth opportunities include Education, Health and Government as well as retail/wholesale.

Jason Leung, market analyst, telecommunications at IDC Australia, said UC has become a fast-growing solution adopted by businesses of all sizes for various reasons including improved productivity and lower OPEX.

"Although UC is considered to be a horizontal product that is applicable to all businesses, there have been adoption time lags by some verticals in the Australian market which we believe will catch up in 2009," he said.

"As overall total cost of ownership (TCO) and return on investment (ROI) culminate to favourable prospects for many businesses.

"The undeniable conclusion in most instances is a case of not if but when UC should be adopted."