I have come across two criticisms you might try to address. when implementing these pbx/computer systems you have now complicated the network because of the introduction of new equipment.
blankmind,
In our case, the Flexion X300 switch actually decreased the complexity of our network and has resulted in more stable server. That is because we were able to move RAS services, which was rather flaky and caused crashes, off of the server.
We were able to do so because the X300 can handle modems and, therefore, dial-up networking (our legacy PBX system could not deal with modems, as it had no modem card, so we had additional lines installed that were managed by the server).
In addition, because the X300 is a separate stand-alone switch, it largely keeps telephony demands off of the server. (The phones work, for example, even when the server crashes). One key component that is on the server is voice mail, but this functions as seamlessly as the existing email services and doesn't seem to create any kind of complexity.
the second problem has to do with how voip has not been standardized upon between the different vendors. (vendors always come to an agreement on standards so i know they will agree on voip eventually also).
In talking to the Flexion engineers, I'm told the X300 is VoIP ready. It simply is a feature that they have not turned on because there is no standard. Once there is a standard, the function can be used.
In addition, they are supposed to have a DSL card within a few months. This will allow for a still greater reduction in the cost of obtaining services from the central office.
Gary Korn |
