Key Communications, Inc

FairPoint comes closer to getting retail regulatory relief in N.H.

2012-02-29T04:03:00.006-08:00

FairPoint and rival Comcast's dream of having a less restrictive regulatory structure in New Hampshire is nearing reality, as Senate Bill 48 (SB 48) passed the state Senate. However, it now has pass muster with the state's House of Representatives.

If SB 48 does not get approved, the House has proposed another bill that would enable the telco to get alternative regulation, something that has been proposed in Vermont. The Vermont PUC devised a four-year regulatory plan approved by the Vermont PUC allows the telco to offer competitive pricing while maintaining pricing on basic PSTN service.

SB 48 and the "deregulation light" option are both being evaluated by the House Science, Technology and Energy Committee, which is led by chairman Rep. James Garrity, R-Atkinson.

"I've read SB 48, and I like it. It's not 100 percent of what we want--it's well over 90 percent," Garrity said in a New Hampshire Business Review article, adding that he still needs to see what happens at a public hearing to be held in mid-March.

Among the many elements proposed in SB 48 is that the telco would not have conduct the same amount of regulatory reporting, pay penalties for service issues, get approval for rates (there are still rate increase caps), nor need PUC oversight on anything besides PSTN services. In addition, the bill would overturn a PUC decision to regulate Comcast's phone service.

Patrick C. McHugh, FairPoint's new New Hampshire president, told NHBR that SB 48 would "allow us to be quick on our feet, in the sense that new products can get speed to market. It will be a benefit for the state because it furthers competition, and competition is good."

Arguing that there's a lot of competition in New Hampshire's telecom market, FairPoint believes that deregulation would help level the playing field to fight the growing base of CLECs and cable competition.

Article courtesy of FierceTelecom.

For more:
- New Hampshire Business Review has this article

Panasonic HD Video Communications System

2012-02-23T10:47:00.000-08:00

Take your meetings to the next level with an HD Visual Communications system from Panasonic.

Real-time collaboration in stunning HD - A Panasonic HDVC system lets you simulate and reap the benefits of face-to-face interaction without the exorbitant costs and carbon footprint associated with business travel.
With HDVC you can closely inspect a CAD drawing of a newly milled machine part by your factory, observe delicate vascular surgery from across the country, or train your global sales force just as if you were physically present. You'll experience crystal-clear HD video combined with full-duplex sound that lets you capture the nuances of facial expression, tone of voice and body language, crucial towards developing a level of trust and rapport otherwise afforded only by a meeting in person. Some features include:
Computer/Sub Camera Connection - Connect a PC or sub camera and show the other party your computer screen or second camera images. Perfect for adding slideshows, movies or other images to the meeting.
Interoperability - Designed for maximum flexibility, Panasonic HDVC can be integrated into an existing video conferencing environment.
Easy Connection and Operation - With Panasonic HDVC you can one-touch connect with the desired party using the remote control or address book. You can also make two-point or multi-point calls via a company's SIP server. These calls can either be point-to-point or multipoint when you utilize the internal bridging functionality. Switch the outgoing video to a sub camera feed or a presentation on a PC with a single remote click.
Split Screen Capability - In a call, all sides can see all other parties and the data being shared at the same time.
Pan, Tilt, Zoom Camera Control - Using the HDVC remote control, you can pan, tilt or zoom both local and remote cameras.
360 Degree HD Audio - 360 degree full-duplex audio combined with our echo-cancellation feature ensures clear voices and lets parties on both sides of the conference talk at once, just as you would in a face to face meeting.
Stable Connection/Low Bandwidth Support - Our unique A/V QoS technology helps prevent image and sound disruptions on both intranet and internet connections with only 1.5Mbps required for Full HD audio and video transmission.
1080i FUll HD Video - As a premier developer of HD video technologies, Panasonic delivers a dazzling level of realism that bridges oceans by seamlessly bringing your clients and associates together in the same room.

Industry Applications:
Human Resources - Rein in recruitment costs while still reaping the benefits of crucial face to face interviews. HDVC delivers all the benefits of a meeting in person, facial expressions, body language, demeanor and other nuances are conveyed, but without the time and cost associated with travel. This not only allows the applicant pool to be widened, but also shortens the hiring timeline.
Training - Corporate training sessions no longer have to entail flying in personnel from far-flung regional offices. Sales managers and other professionals can conduct detailed training sessions with satellite offices. New employee orientations can be conducted remotely without sacrificing the robust, personal interaction necessary for an effective meeting. Onerous travel expenses are rerouted to the bottom line while wasted travel time is eliminated.
Education - Experts and prominent lecturers who would otherwise be unavailable due to time and travel constraints can now be brought to the "virtual classroom". Students at satellite college campuses can attend lectures by top professors stationed at the main campus. Notes on a blackboard and other visual aids are seen clearly, while crisp HD audio ensures no question goes unheard.
Manufacturing - Engineers who would otherwise travel to factories to inspect machinery or collaborate on new product designs can now get a detailed look at blueprints or finely-machined parts, demonstrate assembly methods or conduct quality control seminars without leaving the home office.
Medical - Students can participate in interactive training sessions with experts a continent away. 360 degree full-duplex audio means participants on both sides of the conference are clearly heard. Physicians can consult with one another in real time across continents and provide diagnostic assistance by getting a detailed look at x-rays, charts or patients themselves, saving time and money.

Contact Key Communications to see how HD Video Communications can help you!

Are You Frustrated with the Cell "Dead Zones"?

2012-02-08T03:47:00.000-08:00

We have all had it happen, having a normal conversation on your cell phone in the car, in the office, or even at home, and the dreaded crackling and dropouts start. All of a sudden you are only hearing every third word that is being said, and eventually, *poof* the call is gone. Then you have to wait to get a solid signal again to call your party back, only to lose them again, and again, and again. Or maybe you are one of the unlucky ones that doesn't even get signal where you live or work, as is all too common here in Northern New England.

Key Communications has a solution! We are an authorized dealer and professional installer for the Wi-Ex zBoost line of cell signal boosters for home, industrial/commercial, and even for your car. The award-winning zBoost® line of cell phone signal boosters enhance the performance of your Cell Phone, Smart Phone, such as, iPhone, Blackberry and Android, and even your Wireless Data Card. zBoost not only increases signal for voice transmission, it also increases signal and speed of aircards, EDGE and 3G technology.

zBoost provides solutions for the 65% of cell phone owners experiencing problems with their cell phone service, including dropped calls, poor signal reception or dead zones. There are several obstacles that can contribute to the poor reception you receive indoors:

Location of the cell phone tower in relation to you
Obstructions caused by buildings, terrain and trees

zBoost improves cell phone signal by capturing and enhancing outside signal, then bringing it indoors.

Contact Key Communications today for more information on how zBoost can increase productivity and reduce frustration with your cell or smartphone service.

Hybrid, Converged, Pure IP, Hosted.... What does it all mean?

2012-01-31T03:55:00.000-08:00

Just like any technological field, the telephone and voice mail world sometimes seems like it has it's own language. When you start shopping for a system you are bombarded with terms like hybrid, hosted PBX, converged and pure IP, it can get confusing very quickly. This article will shed some light on the differences of each system option and what they all mean.

Let's start with Hybrid Telephone and Voice Mail Systems. This is pretty much exactly what it sounds like, a hybrid blending of digital and analog technologies all in one system. You can use digital system telephones with all the features and capabilities, LCD screens, and pre-programmed buttons, or you can use standard single line analog telephones on the system. The same applies for the incoming telephone lines, you have the option of using standard analog (POTS) copper lines or digital offerings like PRI or VOIP lines. The hybrid systems are slowly being phased out and being replaced by converged and pure IP systems, but they are still out there so we wanted to make sure they were on the list!

Next we have Converged Telephone and Voice Mail Systems. Wikipedia defines technological convergence as "the tendency for different technological systems to evolve towards performing similar tasks. Convergence can refer to previously separate technologies such as voice (and telephony features), data (and productivity applications), and video that now share resources and interact with each other synergistically". Ummm... what? In plain English, Converged communications systems not only allow you to combine the digital, analog and VOIP technologies like the Hybrid systems above, they add in integration to your computers and programs allowing features like dialing your phone from your contacts database, among many others. They also allow integration with video conferencing systems and other video applications such as IP security cameras. Converged systems allow the integration of all the most commonly used business technologies and applications, phone, computer and video, into one seamless system.

One of the newest options for communications systems is a Hosted Telephone and Voice Mail System. These systems are occasionally referred to as Virtual PBX, but basically all it means is the service provider "hosts" the phone system equipment in a remote datacenter, not at your site. So you have no physical telephone system equipment at your site other than the telephone sets, which are generally single line phones, IP phones, or SIP phones. The things to watch with a hosted system are making sure you are getting the features and capabilities you want and need, and the overall cost versus a physical, on-site telephone system. In most cases, hosted telephone systems are a monthly fee from your service provider and you are renting the equipment, so at the end of your contract, you have no system and no phones. Hosted systems can be a very good solution for some homes and businesses, just make sure you are comparing apples to apples and oranges to oranges when considering a hosted vs physical, on-site telephone system.

Last but not least, we have the Pure IP Telephone and Voice Mail Systems. Pure IP systems are based on the Converged systems, but with significant differences to it's form factor (the physical size and shape of the system). These systems are generally a 19" rackmount system with a pre-installed Main Processing Card that has the option for IP trunk ports (incoming telephone lines) and/or IP extension ports (telephone sets), and which runs desktop productivity software and simple voice mail . Thus, a complete IP system (including voicemail and CTI) can be configured using only the Main Processing card and optional VoIP DSP cards – no external components are needed. Out of the box, the system is set for a Pure IP deployment, but it also can be configured to support analog or digital system phones as well as analog/digital telephone lines with additional equipment.

Hopefully this has shed some light on the differences between the communications system options available today. It can be very confusing, but working with a trained and knowledgeable telephone vendor like Key Communications can take the guesswork out of your next communications system purchase. Contact us today to review your options or schedule a system demo. Let Key Communications take the mystery out of shopping for your next system.

Panasonic Launches Smart Desk Phone, A Game Changing Business Communication Solution

2012-01-19T06:58:00.000-08:00

New SIP Telephone Features Interactive Touchscreen and Open Source Technology to Enhance Business Operations

Panasonic System Communications Company of North America, the leader in small business phone systems, today announced the introduction of the KX-UT670 Smart Desk Phone, expanding the company’s current lineup of SIP UT Series telephones. This new offering is Panasonic’s first SIP open source-based operating system desk phone and allows for integrated solutions to be developed for business communications and operations.

“As a trusted name in consumer electronics, and a leader in the business telephone market, Panasonic is committed to offering innovative telephony solutions to enhance business productivity,” said Bill Savino, Marketing Manager for business communication solutions at Panasonic System Communications Company of North America. “By incorporating open source technology in the new KX-UT670 SIP phone, we are pushing the boundaries of the future of business communications while still offering business owners reliable, flexible and cost-effective solutions that they have come to know from Panasonic. Additionally, we are opening up a new door for application developers to move into a growing industry segment and effectively enhance business communications.”

The KX-UT670 offers users a communication solution and business tool that can enhance operations in fields such as retail, education, healthcare and hospitality. Through the use of the high-quality video (H.264/720P) viewer and up to 16 integrated Panasonic Network Security Cameras, managers in retail environments can discreetly monitor a store with their desk phone from a back office or even from home. Users can choose a specific camera feed to view or opt for all feeds to run sequentially on the LCD screen. Similarly, school faculty and authorities can monitor potential emergency situations in classrooms from a secure area by viewing live video on the phone from Panasonic’s PTZ network video cameras. Users can control integrated camera’s pan, tilt and zoom functions directly from the phone’s screen, ensuring they keep an eye on all areas of a room in an emergency.

In the healthcare and hospitality fields, the KX-UT670 phone gives users the opportunity to develop applications to enhance business operations and could include applications such as nurse call systems and easy ordering from a touchscreen for room service.

The KX-UT670 is equipped with a large 7-inch LCD touchscreen, which allows for easy access to control phone features and installed applications. The open source-based operating system is programmable in Java, one of the most popular programming languages, allowing for a company to utilize a variety of business-friendly applications or develop ones which are specifically designed to fit their needs. Applications can be easily loaded onto the phone using the built-in SD Memory Card Slot. Users can also take advantage of web browsing, access email directly from their phone and check daily calendar appointments.

Coupling with a hosted or open-source PBX allows for simple, user-friendly configuration so users can easily set-up a phone system without the cost or hassle of installation services. Two 1 Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) ports and Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability allow for simplified wiring and easy connection of a second device. Additional phone features include 3-way conference call support, phonebook, long handset cords, non-slip rubber feet, wall mounting option and a changeable angle stand.

The Panasonic SIP KX-UT670 Smart Desk Phone, available in January 2011, will be showcased at 2012 International CES at the Panasonic booth. Contact Key Communications for more information on this amazing phone!

Panasonic Helps Non-Profits Cut Costs During Tough Economic Times

2012-01-11T03:17:00.000-08:00

Panasonic offers affordable flexible communication solutions and financing options to aid non-profits

Like businesses nationwide, non-profit organizations have suffered in the financial crisis, forcing cuts on already stretched budgets. The impact of these budget cuts often seeps into decisions on much-needed office equipment, like new computer technology and telecommunication systems. Panasonic System Networks Company of America, the leader in small business telephone systems, with Key Communications, are now offering flexible, affordable solutions that empower nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organizations, and help to reduce communication costs.

Offering bundled communication solutions for different sized installations, Panasonic provides non-profit organizations the updated equipment that they require in order to provide flexible communication solutions, while streamlining system needs to reduce monthly costs. As part of a commitment to help non-profits succeed, Panasonic is offering non-profit organizations savings up to 45% on bundled solutions and a 7-Year Extended Service Plan/Program through Marlin Leasing.

“This volatile economy has impacted businesses across all industries, but the non-profit organizations have really felt the effects. We realize affordability is critical, especially for non-profits, so we created exclusive financing options that will help make our solutions more affordable,” said Bill Taylor, President, Panasonic System Networks Company of America. “Several non-profits are already taking advantage of our great financing program to get the best technology and most cost-effective, flexible communications solutions on the market.”

Panasonic provides a variety of business communications system configurations and versatile connection options, from traditional telephony to advanced IP phones, to fit any non-profit organizational need, no matter how basic or complex. Flexible networking options allow off-site employees and volunteers to stay connected to the office or allow multiple locations to utilize a centralized telephony system. Additionally, key phone features like Auto Attendant, Call Routing and DECT Wireless Handsets provide tightly staffed operations with the ability to operate more efficiently.

Panasonic recently worked with the Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation to solve communications challenges at the Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden in Arcadia, California, which is governed through a private/public collaboration between the Foundation and the County of Los Angeles through the Parks and Recreation Department. With a new responsibility of maintaining the facility’s data and phone infrastructure, which was previously supported by the county, the Foundation decided to upgrade the existing telecommunications system to one that was current, easy-to-use, flexible and would offer cost-savings. After an extensive search for a new phone system, Panasonic’s phone systems surfaced as the Foundation’s top choice. The Foundation hired a Certified Panasonic Dealer to install the Panasonic KX-TDE200 system, a converged IP-PBX system that supports up to 256 total extensions and 128 CO lines, and the KX-TVA200 voice processing system with 12 ports. The resulting communications solution provided the Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden with significant savings on monthly communication operation costs, allowing them to allocate those funds for other areas of its operations that needed help.

Panasonic is currently offering the following business communications solutions to qualified non-profit organizations:
KX-TDA50G Hybrid IP-PBX System
KX-TDE100/200/600 Converged IP-PBX Systems
KX-NCP500/1000 IP Communication Systems
KX-TVA Voice Processing Systems
High Definition Visual Communications (HDVC)
CTI/Applications Software

To read the full case study on The Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation, please click here.

For more detail on Panasonic’s Finance Solutions program, please contact Key Communications.

Orchard Park Rehabilitation & Healthcare Case Study

2011-12-28T03:02:00.000-08:00

The Challenge

To achieve its mission of providing excellent care to its patients, Orchard Park Rehabilitation and Healthcare, a premier skilled nursing facility in Orem, UT, sought to speed up its response time. With 59 patients in residence, the nursing staff was constantly on the run and wanted to improve their efficiency.

When Orchard Park had the opportunity to upgrade its facility with the assistance of state funds, they immediately knew what they wanted to do—purchase both a new call button system that would enable them to respond faster to patients while simultaneously upgrading their telephone system. What they didn’t know at the time was that they could actually integrate the two systems together.

The Solution

Orchard Park turned to Selectric, a systems technology integrator from Linden, UT who joined forces with Hello Communications, an authorized Panasonic dealer. “Our initial meeting with the Orchard Park staff was only supposed to last a short time, but when we demonstrated the capabilities of this integrated system, their team was so impressed that we spent hours brainstorming potential applications,” explained Von Gordon, owner of Hello Communications. Selectric and Hello jointly developed a solution that connected patients’ telephones to the wireless nurse call system.

In the spring of 2010, the facility installed approximately 50 Panasonic KX-DT321 telephones, with 32 placed in rooms and the remainder in the administrative offices. The hub of the phone system is the Panasonic KX-TDE600 Converged IP-PBX, combined with the Poltys Direct Care Connect Application, which is designed to help healthcare organizations manage communications and works with Panasonic PBX systems.
Additionally, all nurses and nurse’s aides were equipped with a KX-TD7696 ruggedized, splash-resistant wireless handset which basically lets them carry their extension number with them anywhere in the building. This solved a number of problems: Prior to carrying the cordless handsets, nurses or nurse’s aides would have to visit a patient’s room in response to call button alert without knowing what the problem was. If a patient needed medication, the nurse or aide would then have to walk back to the nurse’s station to retrieve it. Nurse’s aides, who aren’t allowed to dispense medicine, would often have to track down a nurse if one wasn’t nearby to assist. The process was inefficient, time consuming and required lots of walking, not to mention it kept the patient waiting.

Now, when a patient hits the call button, it automatically rings a cordless handset. The nurse can speak with the patient to find out what the problem is. If the patient needs medicine, the nurse goes directly to the nurse’s station to retrieve it without first visiting the patient’s room. If a nurse’s aide fields the call and medicine is required, they use the wireless handset to locate and inform a nurse who retrieves the medicine and visits the patient directly. The ability to immediately communicate with the patient and with each other from anywhere in the building has been a huge time saver for the medical staff and ensures patients receive more timely care.

The flexible architecture built in to the TDE600 is what lets everything work together. Hello Communications installers were able to easily sync the system with the call-button system. Additionally, the Panasonic system accommodated a PRI line. This, combined with the large number of extensions available with the TDE600, allowed Orchard Park to scrap their old system which saw 60 individual lines coming into the building. Now every room in the facility can have up to 3 DID (direct inward dialing) numbers even though Orchard Park only pays for a single PRI line. The result was a whopping $1,500 in savings on their monthly phone bill.

“This was a brilliant solution,” said Jared Swain, Orchard Park Administrator. “We now have a way to conduct two-way communications with some of our residents and patients which increases the efficiency of our care staff. The new updated telephone system also delivers better quality while saving us thousands of dollars on our phone bill.” Gordon adds, “It’s been gratifying to help them achieve their goal of better servicing their patients and improving overall communications while saving money, too.”

Customer Information:
Orchard Park is the premier skilled nursing facility in Orem, Utah. They provide compassionate and personal 24-hour skilled care and rehabilitation services in a comfortable and friendly environment.
At Orchard Park, caring is their main concern. They believe the most effective way to provide compassionate care is to maintain high medical integrity, build a team spirit among staff and provide friendly, beautiful surroundings for their patients and visitors. Although most transitions can be challenging, they strive to facilitate that process with an environment where patients and guests feel informed and comfortable.
Their team of qualified professionals helps patients recover from surgery, injury or serious illness. They understand the importance of creating a comfortable and nurturing atmosphere, whether providing patients with short-term treatment or long term care.

Happy Holidays from Key Communications!

2011-12-22T05:49:00.000-08:00

To all our friends and clients,

The coming of the New Year brings with it an opportunity to say Thank You for your support and business, and extend our heartfelt greetings for the season. It is clients like you who enable us to become the best in our field.

By way of this small note, we wish you and your dear ones a safe and happy Holiday Season and a very happy New Year. We sincerely hope that this New Year brings with it more successes and joys and good health and cheer for you and your family.

We hope that your support and patronage will continue into the New Year and we shall have the privilege of serving you in the years to come. We wish to thank you again for the privilege of serving you in the past years and look forward to future projects. Wishing you and your family a very happy New Year once again and hope you have a great holiday.

Financing Business Communication Equipment Makes Sense...

2011-12-14T02:26:00.000-08:00

Why Finance?

A constantly changing business environment makes managing cash flow both challenging and critical. Technology changes just as fast – presenting both the opportunity and the need to acquire that new technology. The successful business leaders are able to balance cost cutting, preserve business capital and take advantage of adopting new technology.

Equipment financing with Marlin is the solution. Our flexible financing allows you to acquire Panasonic communications technology without an up-front cash investment. We offer various financing plans with flexible terms and payment options.

Bottom line – acquire new technology and preserve your cash.

Flexible Financing Options

We all hear the word "leasing" or "financing" and usually cringe. The early days of leasing and financing made us fear enormous interest rates and giant balloon payments at the end of the term. That isn't the case any more! With flexible financing options, special plans and rates for non-profits, schools and municipalities, and great rates for everyone, financing your new system might just be the solution you have been looking for.

With $1 Buyout financing, also referred to as a Capital lease or finance lease, you simply pay $1 at the completion of your term, and you own your system, it's that simple. This option is perfect for companies or residences that are fairly certain they want to own the equipment after the lease term ends. With a finance lease, you (the lessee) can claim ownership of the asset for tax purposes (although the funding source is the actual owner), so you can claim depreciation and interest expense deductions. Most commercial leases are done under a $1 buy out lease due to the mileage restrictions with other types of leases. With a $1 out lease, you own the equipment at the end of the term.

With FMV (Fair Market Value) financing, also known as an operating lease or True lease, you have the option of making the final payment and owning your system, or turn in the equipment and upgrade to a new system. FMV financing is primarily designed for businesses that want the lowest monthly payment with the greatest flexibility at the end of the lease term. With an operating lease, the lessor (funding source) retains ownership of the asset for tax purposes, and the lessee (you) typically claims all lease payments as an operating expense or tax deduction. The greatest asset of the FMV is to lower the monthly payment to the least amount possible. At the end of the lease, you would hold no obligation to purchase the equipment, although you would have the availability to do so from the leasing company at the equipment FMV as determined by the leasing company.

The differences and /or advantages of one type over another would be specific to each particular customer and in each specific application. You could see the same company use an operating lease in one situation and then a capital lease in another. Particular use, long term ownership needs, and mileage requirements would certainly sway one's decision.

Why Marlin Business Services?

Marlin Leasing Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Marlin Business Services Corp., continues to make borrowing available to most Panasonic customers. Marlin Leasing and Panasonic have formed a strategic alliance to provide flexible financing that allow Panasonic customers the ability to upgrade older communication systems or to deploy new technology.

Marlin is not experiencing the same financing capacity issues as other financial institutions and independent leasing companies. We are well capitalized and acquire funding support internally through Marlin Business Bank – allowing us to be less reliant on external funding sources.

As a trusted business partner, Marlin can help you obtain and maintain the right Panasonic solution for your business. Contact Key Communications today for more information.

Shhhhh... it's a Secret System! Coming Soon!

2011-12-07T03:01:00.000-08:00

We are proud to announce that we have been included in a select group of dealers asked to be a part of the pre-launch of a new system due from one of our manufacturers in early 2012. It is so secret, we can't even talk about the system or name the manufacturer! We are so honored to be asked to be a part of the handful of dealers invited to this pre-launch. Bob and Steve will be headed South for the meeting tomorrow and will be getting the scoop on the new system. We are very excited at the new features and capabilities we are hearing about and can't wait to see them in action, and bring them back for our clients! As you know, Key Communications has built it's reputation on only providing the best equipment, with a proven track record, to suit your specific needs. This pre-launch gives us the opportunity to see the system live, and be included in a dealer only demo program so we can fully test the system and put it through it's paces before the release to the general public. We'll be sharing more information as it becomes available and are excited to have this sneak peek into the future of telephony. Stay tuned for more details as they come available!

Have Neck/Back Pain or Headaches After Work? Headset Benefits VALIDATED!

2011-11-30T03:14:00.000-08:00

Are you a headset user? SHOULD you be a headset user? If you are having neck, back, hip, leg pain or frequent headaches, it might not be "just stress", it could be your telephone use! In my many, many years of retail and office telephone use I have discovered one thing... headsets really DO work. I spent lots of years (and lots of money) at my chiropractor getting adjustments when my neck or back would go out. Then I started noticing a pattern, my neck would always go out in the same spot, and it was usually after a high-volume phone week. I had never been a headset fan in the past, but decided to give it a try to see if it made any difference. To my amazement, the change was all but immediate! I started out with a simple wired headset with a Quick Disconnect so it was easy to detach and go if I needed to leave my desk and graduated to a wireless headset within a year for total freedom. I cannot say enough about how not only this increased my productivity, but also improved my health. No more missed days because I couldn't move my head or walk, no more smashing headaches at the end of every day, and all because of this simple little earpiece.

And now Plantronics commissioned H.B. Maynard & Company to do a random study on the benefits of headset use in the workplace, and the results mimic my own personal experience. Some excerpts of the study:
Results from a commissioned study conducted at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center in San Jose, CA, provide, for the first time, strong evidence that office workers can reduce neck, shoulder and upper back muscle tension as much as 41% by using headsets.
In the course of the three-month study, 62 people (33 women and 29 men), ranging from 20 to 63 years old, were involved in tests that evaluated the various levels of muscle tension resulting when office workers engage in other tasks while using the telephone.
Neck and upper back muscle tension is one of the most common ailments of office workers today. This new evidence now confirms Plantronics Headsets as a cost-effective, preventative solution for office workers.
The H.B. Maynard & Company study, also commissioned by Plantronics, first confirmed that headsets improve workplace efficiency and productivity as much as 43%. These new study results, combined with the results from the Maynard study, prove without a doubt, the benefits of headsets in today's demanding work environment. Employers and employees alike will benefit from using headsets, from lower medical costs to happier, more productive workers.

To read the entire study from Plantronics, click HERE to go to the PDF. For more information on headsets for your system, contact Key Communications, or see the different models available at www.key-comm.com. Get your headset today and save your health!

Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-23T03:49:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving and joyous holidays to all our friends and clients! Here's hoping you have a wonderful holiday and enjoy the time with family and friends.

Thanksgiving Day brings to mind
the blessings in our lives
that usually go unnoticed:
a home that surrounds us
with comfort and protection;
delicious food, for pleasure
in both eating and sharing;
clothes to snuggle up in,
books and good entertainment
to expand our minds;
and freedom to worship our God.
Most of all we are thankful
for our family and friends,
those treasured people
who make our lives extra special.
You are part of that cherished group.
On Thanksgiving, (and every day)
we appreciate you. Happy Thanksgiving!

Did You Know....

2011-11-16T03:56:00.000-08:00

You can have a 7 YEAR PARTS WARRANTY on all new Panasonic telephone system purchases? Talk about a worry-free system! It's true, any new Panasonic equipment purchases have the option of adding an additional 6 years to the standard 1 year factory warranty for a full 7 years of coverage. For around $10 per phone, $63 for a telephone system control unit, and $42 for a voice mail control unit, you get 7 years of no-worry system. That's less than $1.50 a year for phones, $9 a year for telephone system, and $6 a year for voice mail (*expansion and feature cards and other equipment are additional), at that price how can you NOT afford to add the extended warranty? Contact Key Communications today to get more information!

Actor Rob Lowe Chooses Panasonic Business Telephone System

2011-11-09T02:46:00.000-08:00

Rob Lowe, the celebrated actor who was nominated for an Emmy Award for his portrayal of Sam Seaborn on the hit television series The West Wing, recently outfitted his estate in California with a Panasonic business phone system, including more than 30 sophisticated desk phones and several DECT cordless phones. Mr. Lowe and his family chose Panasonic for their new home because they wanted a way to easily communicate from room to room within the house as well as on the surrounding grounds, which includes a pool area.

With the same type of research and preparation that he brings to his acting, Rob Lowe and his wife concluded that a complete Panasonic phone system was the best fit for their home and lifestyle. “We’ve had really good luck with Panasonic in the past, and we know the company has incredible systems for business and home,” Mr.Lowe said, noting that ease-of-use, mobility and the means to “have as many extensions as you need” were key factors in his decision to go with Panasonic.

“The system and the phones are really easy to use and set up,” Mr.Lowe said. “There was no learning curve or heavy training involved to get started. The system is reliable and we’ve had no down time—you just pick up the phone and you’re good to go!”

“Panasonic’s phones also go well with our décor, and for mobility we’re using the new DECT 6.0 cordless handsets, which give us the freedom to go from room to room, even out onto the grounds,” Mr. Lowe continued. “We don’t have to worry about dropped calls, and the sound and range are pretty incredible. The phones are also extremely secure.”

Rob Lowe, who rose to fame in the 1980s after appearing in such iconic movies as The Outsiders and St. Elmo’s Fire, supports a number of causes, including Best Buddies, a non-profit organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the Dream Foundation, the first national wish granting organization for adults suffering life-threatening illness.

“As a market leader, Panasonic is committed to delivering innovative features and superior performance, qualities that led to Rob Lowe’s decision to choose our products for his home,” said Bill Taylor, President of Panasonic System Networks Company of America. “Mr. Lowe is also quite concerned about environmental issues and Panasonic is serious about its commitment to environmental responsibility, another issue that was appealing to him. Our new DECT line uses 100% recycled packaging materials, and our new models are Energy Star® compliant, which means they use about 1/3 less energy than non-qualified models.”

What Does “The Cloud” Mean to You and Your Communications Systems?

2011-10-26T04:59:00.000-07:00

The decision between on-premise and off-premise infrastructure is becoming more relevant and important with each major company's commitment to providing Software as a Service (SaaS). There's still plenty of speculation on the actual transition and immersion, but the prospect for cost-effective production attracts small businesses of all kinds.

The phrase 'cloud computing' has been thrown around a lot and sometimes we forget the basic foundation - the internet. Typically, cloud computing is summarized as a model of IT services based on and provided over the internet with on-demand access to network materials while experiencing little to no service provider interaction. The software and data are stored on servers and the software is delivered through online web services or software (i.e. browser).

With a lot of confusion regarding a transition to the "cloud," are we using the term too loosely to define a more precise shift in IT services?

In a post over at CNET.com, Jonathan Eunice explains how many people are throwing the vague "what comes next in IT" label on cloud computing, emphasizing "overhyped" and "overused." He does not agree with the general viewpoint, and later goes on to say this:

"Cloud is the realization that what comes next in IT isn't a specific technology, but the infusion of flexibility, variability, and elasticity into what was previously a static, front-loaded, inflexible world."

While some may question the definition, others still debate over the cloud's security standing and performance factors. Over at networkworld.com, two experts make excellent points for and against the readiness of cloud computing. While one stresses the need for "significant answers to the significant questions," the other insists that the cloud is ready for specific tasks and edging closer to the ultimate 'platform' which businesses await.

Of course, for most enterprise users, the most important aspect of cloud computing that needs to be established is security. Computerworld.com stresses that cloud service outages and criminals operating in the cloud threaten the overall participation in the model. The good news - there is plenty of research, partnerships, and products being developed to further enhance and advance the cloud arena. Click on the Computerworld link or check out how Networkworld.com puts the enterprise cloud to the test.

If there ever was a "hyped" IT model, cloud computing takes the cake. Will we continue to see slow enhancements, a faster acceptance, or a slippery slope of denial when it comes to cloud computing capabilities and adaptation?

Panasonic Communications Assistant 3.0 Empowers Businesses To Stay In Touch While On The Go

2011-10-20T03:57:00.000-07:00

Panasonic, a leader in business telephone systems, announced today that it has enhanced its state-of-the-art Communications Assistant (CA) productivity software suite. CA is a PC-based software application suite that allows the business user to manage their telephony needs from a desktop or laptop, with different levels of functionality available to suit a variety of business situations:

CA Basic Express – Users can visually manage all of their individual communication needs from a PC

CA Pro – Builds on CA Basic Express by enabling voice mail control from anywhere in the world and adds presence and chat/IM functionality to assess coworker availability at a glance

CA Supervisor – Allows supervisors to visually manage all of their employees’ call activities

VM Assistant – This module allows users to check voicemail messages from a PC, forward them via email as .wav attachments, and perform many other voicemail management functions (requires optional KX-TVA voice messaging solution)

CA Operator Console –Simultaneously manages and redirects multiple calls with such features as drag-and-drop call transfer—ideal for the busy receptionist, customer service desk or support desk

“More and more businesses have been moving away from the traditional static desktop workplace in favor of a more mobile one,” said Bill Savino, marketing manager for business telephone systems at Panasonic System Networks Company of America. “In this new dynamic work environment, it’s essential for people to be able to easily manage their communications anytime, anywhere, which includes from their computers. Panasonic’s Communication Assistant is designed to offer businesses another way to stay in touch with and manage interactions with colleagues, customers, and suppliers—wherever they may be.”

CA 3.0 features point-and-click call control; instant messaging (chat); visual voice messaging; Microsoft® Outlook® integration; door telephone and sensor control; IP camera integration and control; call history, calls made/missed, and supervisor group call monitoring and management. The system also supports two types of deployments: computer telephony integration (CTI) without a server for small-to-medium-sized businesses and CTI server-based systems that can support up to four separate locations. Some of the new features available with version 3.0 include “drag and drop” on-screen icons so callers can visually manage teleconference locations; remote location call monitoring; busy signal override, and detailed status reporting.

Communications Assistant productivity software supports the Panasonic KX-NCP and KX-TDE business telephone systems. For more information on Panasonic Communications Assistant and Panasonic business telephone systems, please visit www.key-comm.com.

Panasonic: Blurring Boundaries and Shattering Silos in Business Telephony

2011-10-12T03:11:00.000-07:00

It may be true that as Gertrude Stein famously said, "A rose is a rose is a rose." But where businesses and their communications needs are concerned, it’s definitely no longer true (if it ever was) that a phone is a phone is a phone. For many if not most business users, "the phone" has evolved and continues to evolve as its role in effective business communications expands. Panasonic brings a unique combination of strengths to this dynamic marketplace, offering solutions that blend legacy and modern technologies to offer basic and enhanced functionality.

Telephony is changing, from "plain ol’ telephone service" (or "POTS") to voice and unified communications (UC) often running atop Internet Protocol (IP) network infrastructures. But many businesses still have significant capital and experience invested in legacy telephone systems, and are still deriving business benefits from those investments.

Meanwhile, the views of those buying and using business telephony systems are also in flux. That audience now includes growing numbers of younger, "IP-aware" people who have never worked in organizations with separate voice and data networks or management. But the ultimate audience for telephony services still includes those whose needs or desires for advanced or enhanced services is minimal or non-existent, at least for now.

Further, delivering basic dial tone has given way to a more systematic, strategic approach to telephony, focused on connecting workers to each other, to customers and to needed resources wherever they may be. But delivering basic dial tone is still business-critical and especially challenging in some geographies or where mobility support is also needed.

What’s needed is a solution set that embraces both legacy and modern technologies and approaches. Such a solution set would enable business telephony decision makers to keep using what’s in place and working, and combine it with the most useful strengths of the old and the new.

Panasonic has positioned its business telephony business and solutions in direct response to this need, precisely between "pure-IP" and "pure-legacy" providers. Panasonic takes what it calls a "converged IP" approach that embraces both legacy and modern handsets, PBXs and network connections.

The Panasonic approach results in solutions that can be tailored to specific user needs without forcing those users to adopt new technologies before such changes make maximum business sense, according to company executives. Examples include the following.
Hospitality: Panasonic telephony solutions for the hospitality industry combine advanced call routing and management features for guests and employees with support for in-place, still-functioning non-IP handsets. This allows hospitality providers to deliver more efficient communications and better guest care without requiring expensive wholesale replacement of legacy equipment.

Wireless Integration: Panasonic also offers integration of wireless telephones compliant with the Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT) with PBXs via traditional or IP-connections. DECT handsets communicate with those PBXs through Panasonic access points. Advanced calling and management features can thus be extended seamlessly to users of DECT-compliant wireless telephones.

Logistics and Security: "Door phones" commonly found in warehouses and similar environments can be integrated with cameras and other telephones, including those equipped with displays. Users can then not only monitor cameras from any authorized telephone or PC, but can also lock and unlock individual doors for enhanced security.

Panasonic is also evolving as a business in response to changing technologies and user needs. The company recognizes that many businesses rely upon resellers to choose and implement telephony solutions. However, sophistication of resellers and integrators varies widely, especially in the face of the advent of IP telephony. Panasonic is actively recruiting channel partners with more understanding of IP, data and networks and is offering extensive training to those channel partner training, executives told Focus.com.

Panasonic also offers numerous financing options to business telephony buyers. Smaller businesses have been disproportionately affected by the credit crunch, which makes those financing programs more important and attractive to such businesses, the Panasonic executives said. Financing makes available to resource-constrained companies advanced telephony solutions that can improve their competitiveness.

Panasonic’s telephony operations are also well positioned for a future in which the "consumerization" of business technologies is likely to continue and accelerate. For example, larger, multi-building private residences and commercial environments can benefit equally from solutions that can integrate support and management of wired telephony with DECT-compliant wireless phones, door phones, cameras and other security features. Panasonic can draw upon years of experience and success in consumer electronics markets to respond to the continuing blurring of distinctions between business and consumer needs and solutions.

Numerous trends underscore the continuing growth of IP telephony. These include the increasing use of Session Initiation Protocol (SIP)-compliant trunks and telephones (some based on open source technologies) and the retirement of expensive, high-capacity T-1 lines in favor of IP-based links.

However, not every business is ready for a wholesale move to IP telephony. Many could not financially justify such a move, even if there were business incentives to make it. If yours is just such a business, you should look closely at Panasonic, its offerings and its ecosystem of development and channel partners. Panasonic competes effectively with vendors such as Alcatel and Cisco, and offers combinations of functionality, affordability and support unmatched by most if not all competitors.
This Brief was originally published on Focus.com.
www.focus.com/briefs/information-technology/panasonic-blurring-boundaries-and-shattering-silos-business/

New DECT Multi-Cell Wireless Telephone Handsets for Business Telecommunications

2011-10-05T03:50:00.000-07:00

Panasonic, a leader in business telephone systems, today introduced two new Multi-Cell DECT 6.0 wireless telephone handsets that put advanced communications technology at users’ fingertips -- even away from the desk or workstation.

Ideal for high-end residential or business use, the KX-WT120 series cordless telephones connect with a Panasonic business phone system and are compatible with all of Panasonic’s current PBX models (TDA50G, TDE and NCP series). Depending on the Panasonic system chosen, up to 128 handsets can be supported. The Multi-Cell DECT system solves range-related issues in larger buildings by using multiple cell antennas, which automatically and seamlessly hand off calls from one station to the next as users move throughout the warehouse, plant, showroom or other facility. A large, clear display and graphical icon menu provide a quick overview of all system features so users always have the power of their desk telephones right at their fingertips.

“Today’s employees are more mobile than ever, and their communications demands have never been higher,” said Bill Savino, marketing manager for business telephone systems at Panasonic System Networks Company of America. “Our goal is to empower this highly dynamic, on-the-go workforce with the ability to effectively communicate from wherever they may be. Panasonic continues to push the envelope by developing advanced communications systems that are designed to meet the ever-changing demands of today’s fast-paced business environment.”

The new Multi-Cell DECT cordless telephone models offer a variety of useful features for business or high-end residential use:

Background noise-reduction technology
Backlit display and illuminated keypad for easy reading in all lighting conditions
Easy menu navigation
Programmable keys
Personal phonebook with up to 100 entries
Built-in speakerphone
Uses standard rechargeable AAA battery

The KX-WT125 and KX-WT126 models join the existing KX-TD7600 series DECT phones which include compact, standard and ruggedized models, expanding the choice of handsets and features available to business phone system users.

For more information on Panasonic business telephone systems, please visit www.key-comm.com.

Panasonic KXNT400 Touch Screen Telephone Review - This isn't a "Plain Old Telephone"

2011-09-28T06:50:00.000-07:00

I had a chance yesterday to see the new Panasonic KXNT400 Touchscreen IP Telephone, and all I have to say is WOW! This amazing unit isn't your average desk phone! First off, it just looks really cool:

Immediately, your eye is drawn to the 5.7 inch touchscreen on the phone that provides one-touch, easy navigation to multiple feature options, from a contacts screen, to a chat screen, to a camera screen to view up to 20 Panasonic IP cameras, among others. I was amazed at the ease of use and amount of information and functionality right at your fingertips.

Main Screen - Users can access many key features from the Standby screen including presence settings, call forward settings, do not disturb mode (DND), time display, voicemail, new message waiting, missed calls, feature key, application lock, ringer off setting, mute, speakerphone and Bluetooth® module.

Contact Screen - Make it easy to contact people, with key features including search for a contact, make a call, start chat, dial by 12 keys, add, edit and delete a contact. Users have three options to enter information, either with the software keyboard on the screen, the 12 keys on the phones keypad or the optional USB keyboard.

Calls Screen - The Calls screen shows currently connected calls and provides functions that can be used for each call, depending on the call status. These functions include record a call, make a conference call, park a call and transfer calls.

Call Log Screen - The Call Log Screen provides incoming, outgoing and missed call log functions. The key features available from this screen include making a call from the incoming, outgoing and missed calls log, add a contact to the Personal Directory, display details of contacts and view saved images from a network camera.

Camera Screen - The Camera Viewer screen works with a network camera from Panasonic’s KX-HCM or BL-C Series. Users can access many key features from this screen, such as zoom, tilt and pan, view preset, touch and centring, door phone and door opener, still picture recording and viewing, directory integration and register and delete network cameras.

Chat Screen - The Chat Screen allows users to send and receive text based messages. There is the option to use the software keyboard or the 12 keys on the phones keypad for entering alphanumeric characters. The Chat Screen allows users to store up to 2000 messages.

Portal Screen - The Portal Screen allows users to access the internet from the phone’s touch screen and navigate with a stylus pen. Key features include a home button, pull down menu for up to 50 URL’s and make calls from the Portal Screen.

Options Screen - The Options Screen provides setting and maintenance features for the user and administrator. User options allow users to change key features, such as their password, display, call alert pop-up, dial number and language. Administrator option features allow administrators to access the network, directory server (LDAP), dial modification, maintenance and programming.

Additional features include:

- 48 Self Labelling Programmable Soft Keys - For easy call handling.

- Easy Navigation Key - A large, easily accessible navigation key allows fast, one touch access to multiple phone system functions. The ergonomically designed navigation key makes it easy to go through phone system feature menus.

- Bluetooth Module - For effortless wireless headset communication.

- 2nd Ethernet Port - Helping your business save costs and reduce desktop clutter by allowing connection from the phone to a PC, rather than the added cost of two cables back to the network switch.

- Built-In Headset Jack - For easy connection of wired headsets for handsfree communication.

- Power Over Ethernet (POE) - Allows for easy installation, as POE enables data and electrical power to be transmitted over a single Ethernet cable, rather than two separate cables.

This telephone set is downright incredible! Call or email Key Communications today to schedule a demo or for more information.

See Panasonic NCP systems in action - Panasonic Case Study, Angie Brewer & Associates

2011-09-22T05:30:00.000-07:00

With multiple locations, a CEO that’s always on the go, and working in a sector where reputation is the key to survival, the folks at Angie Brewer and Associates put their trust in the quality and reliability of Panasonic, and the ability of our NCP system to seamlessly integrate remote and mobile colleagues for anytime, anywhere access.

Click the link below to view the case study video:

Panasonic Case Study, Angie Brewer & Associates

What is “Hot Desking”?

2011-09-12T03:50:00.000-07:00

Hot desking originates from the definition of being the temporary physical occupant of a work station or surface by a particular employee. The term hot desking is thought to be derived from the naval practice, called hot racking, where sailors on different shifts share bunks. Originating as a trend in the late 1980s to early 1990s, hot desking involves one desk shared between several people who use the desk at different times. A primary motivation for hot desking is cost reduction through space savings - up to 30% in some cases.

This work surface could be an actual desk or just a terminal link. In any event the concept of the hot desk is that the employer furnishes a permanent work surface which is available to any worker as needed.

Hot desking is regularly used in places where not all the employees are in the office at the same time, or not in the office for very long at all, which means actual personal offices would be often vacant, consuming valuable space and resources.

With the growth of mobility services, hot desking can also include the routing of voice and other messaging services to any location where the user is able to log in to their secure corporate network. Therefore their telephone number, their email and instant messaging can be routed to their location on the network and no longer to just their physical desk.

Today, businesses are turning to flexible communication solutions to reduce costs, increase employee productivity and improve customer interaction, with a payback on investment measured in months, not years. The Panasonic Hot Desking solution can deliver these business results, providing one number access to employees, wherever they are.

Reduce real-estate costs by allocating shared desks and phones, enabling buildings to be sold or sub-leased and real-estate expansion to be avoided. Save office energy costs by closing offices, for
example on weekends or evenings, by using remote or home workers to provide call coverage.

Reduce communications costs by leveraging desk phones (internal and external) whenever possible as a lower cost alternative to the mobile phone.

Improve productivity for office workers who frequently travel or work from home. Flexible working arrangements can also boost the morale and motivation for many employees, leading to decreased absentee days and lower turnover.

Increase revenue opportunities by providing your customers with single number access to account representatives so that fewer calls are missed or not completed.

Plan for business continuity by enabling workers to set up virtual offices easily from remote locations.

Hot Desk to any phone. Users can temporarily assign any phone as the user’s primary business phone, providing one-number reachability. Any incoming call to the user’s business phone number is automatically re-routed to the assigned hot desk phone. The hot desk phone can be any type of phone. internal or external, desk phone or mobile phone, with the only requirement being that the phone supports Direct Inward Dialing (DID).

Contact Key Communications today to see how Hot Desking can work for you!

Sorry for the interrupted posts!

2011-09-12T03:46:00.000-07:00

There has been a two week interruption in our posts as one of our employees (me!) was stuck in one of the small Vermont towns that got completely cut off from the rest of the state when Hurricane Irene rolled through the NorthEast. We had no power, water, cell service or phone for 5 days, and no way out or in of our town for almost two weeks. We have had services back for about a week now, but needless to say, the rebuilding and recovering has taken top priority for us.

I have been utterly amazed with the outpouring of support and help from our community, people and organizations around the state, and accross the United States. This was a disaster unlike anything Vermonters have seen since the flood of `27 and the hurricane of `38, and everyone handled it with grace and the "Vermont Way". Neighbor helping neighbor, towns banding together to get their neighbors safe and the roads rebuilt to get supplies in, and working from dawn `til dusk for the good of everyone. There have been many times through this whole process that I have been moved to tears by the spirit of Vermonters, it has been hard mentally and physically, but incredibly fulfilling to the spirit and soul.

As we slowly get back to "normal", or at least back to a NEW normal for us, we want to thank everyone that helped and supported our beautiful state through this. The State and Town Officials, the National Guard from all over the country, the fire departments, emergency response and rescue teams, the tons of volunteers from around the country, and of course the amazing Vermonters that prove once again that if we band together, we can accomplish anything!

Please be sure to continue to support and help where and when you can. The initial reconnections are done, no towns are isolated any longer, but there are many of our friends, family and neighbors that have lost everything, and there is a LONG way yet to go on the recovery, repairs and rebuilding. Check out the fundraising events, donation drives, benefit concerts and shows, and volunteer opportunities in your area and help Vermont and it's dedicated residents. Thank you!

Proud to be a Vermonter,
S

Panasonic Leads Telephone Systems Category in CE PRO’S Brand Survey for EIGHTH Consecutive Year

2011-08-25T03:35:00.000-07:00

Custom Electronics Industry’s Top 100 Integrators Rank Panasonic Business Phone Systems Well Ahead of Competing Brands

SECAUCUS, NJ (July 25, 2011) – For the eighth year in a row, CE Pro Magazine’s Brand Analysis Survey shows that Panasonic business telephone systems are being used by the vast majority of the CE Pro Top 100 Integrators*. The survey was confined to the elite group of top revenue-generating custom integrators who were asked to cite the brands they use in each of 41 categories, ranging from audio and video components to lighting and control systems to computers and telecommunications.

The CE Pro 100 Brand Analysis shows that 66% of the installers reported using Panasonic telephone products, with a 60 point lead over the next closest competitor. The magazine noted that the next closest brand, NEC, garnered 6% of the total share, while Cisco captured 5%.

“It is a great honor to be recognized once again as the leading telephone systems brand among this elite group of custom installers,” said Bill Taylor, President of Panasonic System Networks Company of America. “Their continued confidence and support help make us the number one brand year after year.”

More information on Panasonic business telephone systems is available at www.Key-Comm.com

*CE Pro 100 Brand Analysis, published June 2011 by EH Publishing.

E-Messaging (Voicemail to Email), What Is It and Why Do You Need It?

2011-08-24T07:30:00.000-07:00

A topic that comes up frequently in businesses is the issue of voicemail. It is surprising to hear how many people are still waiting until they get to the office to check their voicemail or calling into the office periodically to check messages. How many sales or opportunities are lost when you are on the road because you didn’t know you had an important voicemail left on your phone system at the office? Now with voicemail to email service, you can stay connected anywhere you are with E-Messaging.

So what is E-Messaging and what are the benefits?
Quite simply, E-Messaging is a voicemail to email service which digitally records your voicemail messages and then turns them into a sound file (such as a .wav or .mp3). That sound file then gets attached to an email message which would typically include the details of the call such as the date/time, the caller’s name and number and how long the message is. This being 2011 and all, everyone has a smart phone so that those voicemail to email messages are instantly viewable on your iphone, blackberry, android etc and you never miss another important voicemail. A for better or worse, you can receive voicemail messages 24 hours a day without having to give out your cell phone number directly to customers. Being able to listen to the .wav or .mp3 file right on your smart phone or in your email inbox is a huge benefit and a real time saver. You can even use voicemail to email as an after hours service to customers who might need emergency support.
What if you don’t have a smart phone? Voicemail to email services can also send you an email to your home computer or laptop whenever a voicemail is left for you so that you don’t have to call in to check it.

The Panasonic KXTVA Voice Processing system can be connected to your Local Area Network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN) providing integration with your email. This ensures your staff receives important messages, no matter where they are!

Is Your Telephone and Voice Mail System Safe From Hackers?

2011-08-03T04:52:00.001-07:00

There has been a recent increase in hacker attacks on business telephone and voice mail systems. The systems are hacked and used to make expensive telephone calls to international phone numbers or premium rate numbers at the expense of the unlucky company targeted. This type of attack is not limited to one type of system, ALL systems can be targeted, Hybrid, IP, Hosted IP, or basic PBXs. Unfortunately, many businesses adopt the "it can't happen to me" philosophy... until it's too late. Companies aren’t helpless against these hackers though – here are ten top tips designed to help you protect your telephone system from being hacked:

1) As obvious as it seems, many companies (including some installation companies) still forget to remove the default passwords from telephone and voice mail systems. Reset all default passwords as soon as possible and limit access to maintenance ports.

2) Change passwords regularly on telephone system and voice mail boxes to keep ahead of hackers. Make passwords as difficult as possible and avoid using your extension number as your password, or the "1234" or “Default” passwords at all costs.

3) Limit call forwarding by extensions. If one extension user has no need to forward to mobile for example, then block forwarding access to outside numbers, or limit to specific numbers, at that extension.

4) Make sure you always monitor (or disable if not needed) DISA – Direct Inward System Access.

5) Make sure that the telephone system hardware is kept in a secure place that has limited access.

6) Always check your telephone bills regularly and review your calls as often as you can. Also review your Telephone Service Provider line features, as many new VOIP lines have features that you (and your service provider) may be unaware of.

7) Block access and change the passwords of unused mailboxes, or even better, delete unused mailboxes.

8) Make sure you are aware of what functions your telephone system can carry out – and then deactivate those functions you don’t use.

9) Assess the security of all the telephone and voice mail system applications.

10) Always be on the lookout for signs of hacking – investigate any calls made outside of business hours. Most hacks occur on weekends and long holiday weekends.

Please contact Key Communications for a security assessment of your system.

Check Key Communications out!

2011-06-22T06:12:00.000-07:00

All kinds of (online) excitement for Key Communications!

Please visit our NEW website at WWW.KEY-COMM.COM! Same web address, but totally new site with an online store, telephone and voice mail system information, services information, client user guides, the list goes on and on! Take a moment to check out the new site and lest us know what you think!

This blog... of course! Check here for interesting articles, Key Communications promos and deals, Manufaturer promos and deals, the happenings at Key, anything and everything that is pertinant... or whatever I feel like writing that day... could be interesting... LOL

Key Comm on FACEBOOK! It's true, you can find us on FB now! Click on over and "like" your favorite communications company!

Thank you to our clients, we hope these additions are useful and helpful, we'd love your feedback!

The Next VoIP System: Pure IP or Hybrid?

2011-06-22T05:59:00.000-07:00

Key Communications offers custom built Hybrid-IP/PBX, Converged-IP/PBX, or Pure-IP systems to fit your needs now and grow with you into the future.

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) telephone system solutions come in two distinct flavors: the Hybrid or Converged IP/PBX products, capable of supporting both TDM (Digital and Analog) and IP communications, and the next generation of IP solutions, often referred to as Pure-IP. Pure-IP solutions have all the advantages in a "starting from scratch" environment, including better economic value, ease of deployment, greater manageability and standards-based architectural designs that enable integration into IT applications and processes. However, in the real world, each organization must weigh more than mere technological advantages in making a "pure" versus "hybrid/converged" communications system buying decision.

Eventually, the Hybrid IP/PBX approach will be as passé as the plain old analog telephone systems of years past that have largely been relegated to the scrap heap. Likewise, IP/PBXs will someday be no match for the new generation of highly integrated, IT-based voice applications. BUT, that day has not come quite yet. Pure IP solutions, as they mature, will overtake legacy solutions for their abilities to directly integrate with essential business process applications such as corporate directories, CRM, ERP, and other critical back-office applications.

BUT, for now, Hybrid and Converged IP/PBXs continue to live on and, in fact, to thrive. This is due in large part to basic business economics. Most enterprises find that it makes financial sense to preserve investments in existing TDM equipment. The Hybrid and Converged approach lets them do just that.

For each business, the decision to go Hybrid/Converged versus Pure IP depends on several factors, including:

- the architecture of the existing voice infrastructure - Will your existing infrastructure support Pure IP?

- the readiness of the IP network to support VoIP traffic - Is your wiring capable of handling a Pure IP system or are you looking at a high cost wiring job on top of your system purchase to make the system work as expected?

- the IT department’s ability to take on such a large project

and, finally

- how voice communications relates to overall strategic business goals. Whatever the deployment choice—Hybrid/Converged or Pure—all decision-makers should fully understand the overall advantages and disadvantages of the two main types of platforms.

Here are seven tips that provide some basic guidance for the decision-makers:

Tip 1: Know the Limitations of the Current Network Assets
Anyone who has run a small VoIP pilot knows that it is essential to understand the network's readiness, including the switching and routing infrastructure, to support VoIP traffic. Decision-makers should also carefully review:

Security policies and procedures, especially if mobile and remote users must be supported by the new system.
Upcoming IT projects that may add traffic or otherwise impact network performance.
VPN services and service level agreements (SLAs).
Wireless Ethernet infrastructures if plans are to use WiFi phones or voice-enabled PDAs.

There are many industry tools available, as well as a myriad of professional service offerings, that are designed to help decision-makers assess network readiness.

Tip 2: Hybrid Solutions are Essential for Some Businesses
Businesses that plan to retain a significant percentage of analog or digital phones may have no other choice but to deploy a hybrid solution. Such companies may find it is simply not feasible, in the short term, to make the move to IP endpoints. For such companies, the best solution is to move to a hybrid approach. This will allow the organization to reap some of the benefits of VoIP while continuing to depreciate the value of current telephony assets.

Tip 3: Branch Offices or Home Offices are Important Pure IP Test Labs
VoIP deployments don’t have to begin at corporate headquarters, even when the ultimate goal is to move the entire enterprise to a Pure IP system. Unlike large IT projects such as ERP systems, CRM applications, and corporate databases, VoIP can start small. VoIP can be easily deployed at the edges of the enterprise and gradually expanded to replace legacy network environments.
However, decision-makers need to make sure that, in deploying VoIP at branch locations, long-term goals are clearly understood. If the eventual long-term goal is a single, enterprise-wide VoIP system, architectures must be selected that can scale to cover the entire organization. The Hybrid and Converged IP/PBX systems fit this scenario perfectly and allow you to link remote offices via VOIP without having to go ALL IP.

Tip 4: When Making a New System Purchase, Choose the System that Suits Your Needs
Organizations that are starting the shopping process for a new telephone system have many options to choose from these days. The Pure IP solutions available in the marketplace today are mature enough to provide reliable, feature-rich voice services. In addition, Pure IP solutions have the added benefits of standards support, relative ease of deployment and administration and these solutions can be tightly integrated with IT applications and processes. On the other hand, Hybrid and Converged IP/PBX systems offer you more flexibility in both system specifications and overall cost. They also feature the option to go to a Pure IP solution in the future with a simple upgrade. The features and capabilities of a Hybrid or Converged IP/PBX are nearly endless with the blending of the two technologies.

When shopping for a new communications platform, you really need to be sure to pinpoint the features you require of your system now, and in the future. As you compare system options, confirm that the necessary capabilities are there in ALL systems before making the final decision. All too often we find ourselves removing and replacing telephone systems at businesses and homes because they didn't realize when they bought the system that:
- the phones were SLT (single line telephones) and had no programmable keys for one-touch access
- the existing wiring in their building wouldn't support VOIP traffic or they couldn't get the correct service to the site to support the bandwidth required for VOIP or link a remote office by VOIP
- the system wasn't expandable for future growth or the cost for expansion was exorbitant
- it just doesn't work as they expected...
The list goes on and on. The decision to purchase and install a new telephone system is a huge one, make sure to make the decision based on your true needs and not the latest technology buzzwords.

Tip 5: IT Must be Ready and Willing
Before tackling any VoIP project, decision-makers must ensure that the organization’s IT staff is ready to work closely with your telephone vendor and service provider—whether it’s a Hybrid/Converged or a Pure IP solution. Your telephone vendor and IT staff should meet and discuss options, concerns, potential issues, etc. before any VoIP migration plans are drawn.

While much emphasis is placed on making sure your telephone vendor is up to speed on IP switching and routing, it is equally important for the IT staff to understand telecom technologies. This is especially significant if the project includes migration to a new voice messaging or unified messaging platform.

Tip 6: You Can Get Help
Critical IT projects are never-ending, causing many businesses to put VoIP projects on the back burner even when such solutions could mean strategic advantages. IT bandwidth, it seems, is always stretched thin. Decision-makers should investigate VoIP deployments via a telephone vendor like Key Communications rather than heaping more on an overloaded IT Department plate.

Choose your telephone vendor as carefully as you choose your telephone system. Again, make sure that the services you require will be met and exceeded by your vendor. Things like emergency response, other services offered, end user support, labor rate and fees, and quality customer service should all be taken into account.

Tip 7: Create a Map to a Long-Term Strategy
When beginning a plan for a VOIP migration, look at the long term goals and make sure the system you choose will scale to suit your needs as your company grows and changes. Do the system manufacturers you are considering have a proven track record of "keeping up with the technological times"? This can go two ways, the system can be outdated before you even put it in, or the system is SO advanced that the technologies are not readily available in our area yet. Your communications system investment should fit your needs today and be able to grow and adapt to tomorrow's.

Contact Key Communications today for a complimentary site visit and telephone system consultation to review your Hybrid or Pure IP options.

POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service, ie: Analog lines) vs. PRI (Primary Rate Interface, ie: Digital lines)

2011-06-22T05:18:00.001-07:00

The most basic and traditional phone service is called POTS or Plain Old Telephone Service. Chances are that you won't see it advertised that way. Instead it will be called business line or dial tone service. What you get is an analog connection to the nearest telephone company Central Office or CO. Any conventional telephone will plug into the RJ11 jack on the wall and give you dial-tone when you lift the handset. You can expand the number of rooms with phones by paralleling twisted pair wiring to other phone jacks. But you still only have one line and, if it is in use, no one else can make or receive calls.

Basic POTS is local phone service. Long distance service is either bundled for a single price or assigned to a competitive long distance carrier that offers lower per-minute rates on separate billing. Caller ID is an add-on service that is multiplexed on the same phone line and displays the caller's phone number and other information on phones with the necessary display, or a separate Caller ID unit. Toll free service can be added to forward incoming calls from a toll-free number to your phone line.

Up till now the phone lines we've been discussing are individual analog POTS lines. You pay for each one separately and the total cost is generally the cost per line time the number of lines. Once you need 8 to 12 lines or more, it usually makes economic sense to switch to digital trunk rather than use multiple analog lines.

The digital trunk, called a T1 voice line, converts up to 24 separate phone lines into a single digital connection between you and your phone service provider. The most popular variety of T1 service is called T1 PRI or Primary Rate Interface. It is also known as ISDN PRI for Integrated Services Digital Network. The difference between a T1 PRI line and a T1 voice line is that the PRI protocol establishes one channel of the 24 as a switching and data channel. This makes calling faster and allows you to have Caller ID for the other 1-23 channels or 1 to 23 outside phone lines.

5 Reasons that Hosted VoIP "Phone Systems" Might Not Suit Your Application

2011-05-11T09:36:00.000-07:00

The newest buzzwords in the telephone and voice mail systems world is "Hosted VoIP" and "VoIP Telephone Systems". Is it something you should be considering for your company? When looking at this as an option, be sure to consider the following:

Quality of Service: QoS is the process of giving your voice priority on your internet/network over your data. If you don't have this dialed in, your call quality will be bad.

Lack of Customization: There will be some level of customization available in terms of the auto attendant, voicemail options, etc...but you've going to have a very basic system - compared to something like a Panasonic or Avaya which is customizable at every turn.

Potentially Inferior Customer Service: I say potentially, because at the end of the day, you're dealing with people at a company that you've never met...and there's only so much you can do over the phone some times. This may never be an issue for you. Just be aware that it may be...and sometimes it's helpful to get to meet a person from the company you're partnering with...and to have them available to stop by if you need it.

Growing Can Be Painful: Every phone call and every intercom call and everything goes over your internet...so you'd better be sure you have enough bandwidth!

Features, Features, Features: At this point in time, you just can't get all the features with a hosted VoIP system that you can with one that is located in your office. Someday...maybe. But not now. This is not a big deal for many small businesses, but I just want you to be aware of it.

There are some companies that a Hosted VoIP or a straight VoIP system will work well for, but we find the majority of people that have opted for this as their communications system are looking to get out of it within a year or two and getting back into a Converged, Hybrid or Pure IP/PBX telephone and voice mail system to meet their needs. Please contact Key Communications to custom build a communications system that will work for you today and grow with you tomorrow.

Welcome to the new Key Communications Blog!

2011-05-11T07:35:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much for stopping by, please check back often for new information and features!