INDeX- stinct - where now for your phone system
15 Apr 2009
Over a decade after it was first launched, the Avaya INDeX system has now reached its end of life. Its retirement sees the end of one of the most loved and respected telephone systems, as well as one of the most revolutionary. We look back at its legacy, and which systems are available to replace it.
Jim Marshall-Andrew, Product Marketing Manager, Systems & Data, recalls the INDeX system with a great deal of warmth. “I started out selling INDeX systems when I first got into the industry. There really wasn’t anything like it. All I used to do was to show people the simplicity of the system and they were sold. It really was an incredible piece of kit, compared to the old key systems.”
For all the fond memories, however, things don’t stand still in telecoms. For all its rugged reliability and ease of use, the advances in technology have rather left the INDeX system behind. Sad though it is to see such an endearing and popular system no longer supported, it remains a wonderful opportunity to look at where you go from here in your telecoms.
Jim Marshall Andrew is under no illusions about the timing of the INDeX’s demise. “Yes, it’s come at a time where everyone is tightening their expenditure, but this might be to the advantage of companies looking to upgrade. We know that it’s tough, which is why we have all kinds of special deals and plans that can spread the cost of investment. And we can do that on whichever solution you choose. We can also look to cross subsidise the cost of the equipment if you use some of our other product offerings, we are aiming for an opex model in a time where capex is tight.”
So what should your company be looking for? “Something simple, yet reliable,” Jim says “we’ve been recommending a migration to IP for many of our clients, but there are other options that could be considered.”
If you do decide to go down the IP route, there are several different systems that come highly recommended. The Avaya Communication Manager (ACM) is proving to be one of the most popular. It’s as easy to use and to implement as the old INDeX system but has a raft of new and improved functions that make it a huge improvement on the old system. Scalable and reliable, it offers a strong communications platform for solving business problems today, while preparing for tomorrow’s new technologies.
Moving away from Avaya, the Mitel 3300 is a very attractive proposition. This solution will help you get the most from your network, especially if you want to take advantage of remote working technology. “Both systems are excellent and have their strengths,” Jim Marshall Andrew said, “it all depends on what works best for your company.”
As both systems involve replacing existing infrastructure, some customers have asked if there is a way of retaining what they have and moving to a new system over time. It’s something that the Mitel gateway solution handles very well. “What it allows you to do, “ Jim explained “is to keep your INDeX system going, but add new users on the Mitel gateway. It’s a great way to keep business continuity, but is not a long term solution. Still, for some of our clients it’s proving to be most attractive.”
Whatever you decide to do, Alternative Networks will provide the best consultancy and advice for your company. “It can be a bit scary to change the whole telephone system, but we’re here to make sure that everything goes smoothly.” Jim said “And while a lot of us will miss the INDeX system, I know that the products that have come to replace it are definitely the next generation – even if they’re not, as yet, as iconic.”
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