Thursday, February 26, 2009

Getting Started with Microsoft Office Communicator Web Access 2007 R2

Brief Description

This document outlines new features and common tasks in Office Communicator 2007 R2.

On This Page
Quick Details

File Name:
CWA_Getting_Started_Guide.doc

Version:
1.0

Date Published:
2/26/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
690 KB – 713

Overview

This guide gets you started with Communicator Web Access 2007 R2. It describes the new features in Communicator Web Access 2007 R2 and outlines common tasks, including how to use the instant messaging, presence, telephone conferencing, and desktop sharing features of Communicator Web Access

Programming for Unified Communications (Pro-Developer) (Paperback)

image TIP: by Rui Maximo (Author)

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Reduce Costs and Simplify Unified Communications Management

Reduce Costs and Simplify Unified Communications Management
Unified communications is both economical and kind to the environment. But managing and securing usage across all UC applications, including data, VoIP, IM and presence, Web and audio/video conferencing is a challenge.

In this new white paper, learn how to proactively manage Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 (OCS), Exchange 2007 and other real-time communications platforms. Read the paper now and see how you can extend the power of OCS to keep costs low and efficiency high.

DOWNLOAD

Special thanks to my buddy MVP Russell JF Kirk

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

MVP Summit 2009 Redmond

I’ll be in Redmond (Seattle) next week for the MVP 2009 Summit so my presence here on UC Weblog will be limited. Responses on email of blog comments will be delayed. The Summit is a four day invitational event for Microsoft Most Valuable Professionals (MVPs) and Regional Directors (RDs)

the Summit gives MVP’s:

  • A chance to -
    • Connect with other MVPs and RDs
    • Engage with Microsoft product managers
    • Provide valuable feedback directly to Microsoft on its products and technologies.
  • Deep technical sessions by competency
  • Cross-competency electives
  • Highly dynamic and interactive sessions
  • Additional activities designed to promote networking and meet attendees' diverse informational and business needs

For me this event will be the first time. Together with other MVP (OCS) we will have lot’s of fun there. See you soon!

For more information check out this link http://www.mvpsummit2009.com/

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

User Education Materials Downloads

When planning and deploying Office Communications Server 2007 R2, administrators should consider the documentation they will provide for users at their organization, including getting started guides, quick reference cards, and other training and adoption materials. Here is the complete Download List of UC clients! Enjoy it more information on the source.

Microsoft Office Communicator 2007 R2

Microsoft Office Communicator 2007 R2 Getting Started Guide

Download Now

Microsoft Office Communicator 2007 R2 Quick Reference Card for Conferencing

Download Now

Microsoft Office Communicator 2007 R2 Quick Reference Card for Phone and Video

Download Now

Microsoft Office Communicator 2007 R2 Quick Reference Card for Contact Management, Presence, and Instant Messaging

Download Now

Microsoft Office Communicator 2007 R2 Quick Reference Card for Keyboard Shortcuts

Download Now

Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Quick Reference for Dial-in Conferencing

Download Now

Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Attendant

Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Quick Reference for Communications Server 2007 R2 Attendant

Download Now

2007 R2 Version of Microsoft Office Communicator Mobile for Windows Mobile

The 2007 R2 Version of Microsoft Office Communicator Mobile for Windows Mobile: Frequently Asked Questions

Download Now

The 2007 R2 Version of Microsoft Office Communicator Mobile for Windows Mobile Getting Started Guide

Download Now

Quick Reference Card for Communicator Mobile 2007 R2

Download Now

Microsoft Office Live Meeting Client for Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2

Getting Started with the Microsoft Office Live Meeting Client for Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2

Download Now

Microsoft Office Live Meeting Quick Reference for Microsoft® Office Communications Server 2007 R2

Download Now

Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Quick Reference for Dial-in Conferencing

Download Now

Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Group Chat

Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Group Chat Getting Started Guide

Download Now

Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Group Chat Quick Reference Card

Download Now

Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Group Chat What's New Guide

Download Now

Source

Microsoft Office Communicator 2007 R2 Phone Edition User's Guide

Quick Details

File Name:
Communicator_Phone_2007_R2_Users_Guide.doc

Version:
1.0

Date Published:
2/23/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
3.9 MB

Overview

This documentation gets you started with Office Communicator 2007 R2 Phone Edition. It describes the new features in Office Communicator 2007 R2 Phone Edition and outlines common tasks, including connecting the phone, signing in, navigating the screens, and making and answering calls.

System Requirements
  • Supported Operating Systems: Windows 2000; Windows Vista; Windows XP
Windows 2000; Windows Vista; Windows XP. This download works with the following Office applications: Microsoft Office Word 2007, Microsoft Office Word 2003, Microsoft Office Word 2002.

Monday, February 23, 2009

UC Weblog Stats

We are almost hitting the 100k on Page Views! Here some statistics for http://unified-communications.blogspot.com

Page Views: 99,174 Pageviews , 67,289 Visits, 5,266 Absolute Unique Visitors

I would like to thank the Team and of course you as blog reader. Stay tuned and make it happen > 100K on pageviews. Thank you very much.

Map Overlay:

image

67,289 visits came from 158 countries/territories  

image

Thursday, February 19, 2009

e-office makes innovative combination with Microsoft Speech Server 2007

Imagine, opening your e-mailbox by speaking to your PDA after which your new e-mails are read out to you. You are held up in traffic and you need to reschedule an appointment? Just say the words.

In 2008 Microsoft launched the latest version of Microsoft Speech Server 2007 (Speech Server). This solution enables you to have your PC or PDA carry out instructions by speaking to the devices. The combination of Speech Server with other Microsoft Unified Communications products results in clever solutions.

support21

e-office has linked Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 (OCS2007) to Microsoft Speech Server, creating a new solution called support21. A solution for helpdesks that provides an effective and efficient way of handling support calls and relieves your professionals in their work.

With this solution you support your first-line helpdesk. For example; a customer calls your helpdesk. This call is directly and automatically answered by Speech Server that will request your customer to state his e-mail address and question. The speech recognition matches the words from the customers question with the words of possible solutions. The link between OCS2007 and the Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2007 (MOSS2007) finds the professional with the required knowledge, who works in the applicable region and is directly available. In the service database the message 'a new call' appears. As soon as you open this message the customer question will appear along with the account data and answers to similar questions. Finding a solution becomes much easier this way.

The support21 solution is created from our work 21 vision. Organisations look for possibilities to make better use of the potential of their employees. They search for more innovative ways of working. The organisation's greatest assets are their employees; people can adjust, processes do not adjust by themselves. By finding the right combination of current knowledge, internal and external processes and communication we can assist on your journey to the new way of working. We call this work21.

At the moment we re-compile our code to support also Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2.

more information

For more information about the support21 solution or other solutions based on Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007, please visit our website microsoft.e-office.com or contact Arjan van Eijk by sending an e-mail to Arjan.van.Eijk@e-office.com

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Microsoft Messenger for Mac 7.0.2

Microsoft Messenger for Mac 7.0.2

Messenger for Mac 7.0.2 is an integrated communications client that enables you to communicate with contacts within and outside your organization. Messenger for Mac 7.0.2 is a Universal application that is built to run on both PowerPC-based and Intel-based Macs and makes it easy to take advantage of the full power of real-time communications.
Messenger for Mac 7.0.2 improves overall quality and conversations with Microsoft Office Communicator 2007 R2.
-------------------------------------------
Important Messenger for Mac 7.0.2 does not work with Live Communications Server 2005. If your organization uses Live Communications Server 2005, you should use Messenger for Mac Version 6.0.
-------------------------------------------
For more information, see the Messenger section of the Microsoft Web site at www.microsoft.com/mac.

Released: Thursday, February 05, 2009

.dmg file size: 21mb

56k modem: 1hrs 49min

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

How Remote Call Control Powers OCS 2007 R2

At a Glance:

  • What Remote Call Control can do
  • How RCC works
  • Common OCS scenarios for implementing RCC

Nice blogpost see the Office Communications Server Teamblog. Link

Monday, February 16, 2009

Plantronics Adds New Colours to Acclaimed Discovery 925 Bluetooth Collection

Limited Edition Royal Blush and Majestic Purple Offer Consumers More Choice

Mobile World Congress, Barcelona – February 16th, 2009 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced the introduction of two new Discovery® 925 colours, Royal Blush and Majestic Purple, to the award-winning Bluetooth® signature earpiece collection.

This is Plantronics first premium performance Bluetooth headset to be offered in a variety of fashionable colours, and the Discovery 925 has already received high praise from media, celebrities and consumers, and received Consumer Reports’ coveted “Top 100 Products of 2008” designation. In January, the Discovery 925 was recognized as the overall leader in the “Voice of the Consumer” report conducted by 7B Labs*. The independent report evaluated hundreds of consumer reviews for several “high-end” Bluetooth headsets and the Discovery 925 won six of nine product categories evaluated, including incoming/outgoing sound, comfort/fit and simplicity.

Plantronics’ new Royal Blush and Majestic Purple Discovery 925 earpieces boast the same exceptional incoming and outgoing audio sound quality as the original version. Each earpiece features the lightweight VFrame™ design for enhanced audio performance and connection range and AudioIQ® call clarity technology. The Discovery 925 also includes a charging case that provides extra battery life, earpiece storage and protection.

“Our vision for the Discovery 925 was to deliver legendary audio in a unique, fashion-inspired design,” said Luc Ackaert Marketing Director for Consumer Products at Plantronics and Altec Lansing “Like the fashion industry, when a new season arrives so does a new pallet of colours. Our new limited edition colours were chosen by the experts and promise to deliver a headset that looks and sounds great.”

Dedicated to promoting innovative and functional design, Plantronics is a pioneer in stylish, wearable technology. Plantronics recently sponsored a Sound Innovation Competition with Designboom, calling for fashion forward Bluetooth concept designs, which resulted in over 3,500 entries globally.  The ON TIME sound headset system won first prize and can be viewed with the finalist’s entries here:

Pricing and Availability

The Plantronics Discovery 925 Bluetooth earpieces in Royal Blush and Majestic Purple are available from electrical retailers for £69,99/ €99.99 (inc VAT)

About Plantronics

In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of innovation is the basis for every audio product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

# # #

*The “Voice of the Consumer” report was fully and independently commissioned by 7B Labs. 7B Labs analyzed consumer feedback on high tier (>$100 MSRP) mono Bluetooth headsets, including the Plantronics Discovery 925, Aliph Jawbone 2, BlueAnt Z9i and Motorola H12, based on consumer reviews on popular ratings web sites. For more information about the report, please visit www.7bil.com.

Plantronics, Plantronics Discovery, AudioIQ, and VFrame are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Plantronics is under license. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

Unified Communications Voice News FEB 2009

More detailed information see the Microsoft Unified Communications Open Interoperability Program link

Qualified Gateways for Office Communications Server 2007 R2:

The Microsoft Unified Communications engineering team is working very hard with hardware partners to qualify PSTN gateways for use in enterprise voice deployments of Office Communications Server 2007 R2 (OCS R2). I’m delighted to show you the first list. The following gateways have been qualified so far:

  • AudioCodes Mediant 1000/2000
  • Dialogic 2000
  • NET VX1200
  • Quintum Tenor DX

GN Netcom Announces its First USB Phone image

More info see: http://www.jabra.com/sites/Jabra/GNImages/Campaigns/OC/M520%20OC%20PRODUCT%20SHEET_EMEA_LOW_5894.pdf

  • True wideband audio performance for professional sound
    quality
  • Intuitive, plug-and-play usability
  • Dedicated answer/end and mute buttons for seamless integration with Microsoft Office Communicator 2007
  • LCD display showing numbers dialed

Proof of Concept For Unified Communications Datasheet updated

Brief Description

The proof of concept deployment of Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 is unobtrusive, helping you to add users at your own pace while evaluating core capabilities.

Quick Details

File Name:
Proof_Of_Concept_For_Unified_Communications.pdf

Version:
1.0

Date Published:
2/13/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
61 KB – 169

Overview

The proof of concept deployment of Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 is unobtrusive, helping you to add users at your own pace while evaluating core capabilities.

Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Attendant Deployment Guide

Brief Description

This guide describes how to successfully install Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Attendant in your organization.

Quick Details

File Name:
Communicator_Attendant_2007_R2_Deployment.doc

Version:
1.0

Date Published:
2/13/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
411 KB

Overview

Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Attendant is an intuitive, integrated, call management application that facilitates accurate and rapid call handling and routing for front-line business professionals. This guide describes how to successfully install Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Attendant in your organization.

Thursday, February 12, 2009

e-office is Microsoft Unified Communication partner

Dutch press release. Just for Dutch blog readers.

e-office the human software organisation en specialist in het optimaliseren van de digitale werkomgeving van professionals, heeft de status van Microsoft Unified Communications (UC) Voice Partner behaald.

Hiermee zijn zij op alle onderdelen van de Unified Communications-suite een door Microsoft aanbevolen partner.  e-office begeleidt relaties bij het opzetten van een compleet en geïntegreerd communicatieplatform. "Voice-integratie maakt onderdeel uit van het UC-portfolio van e-office. Wij werken hierbij nauw samen met Microsoft en een aantal gespecialiseerde telefoniepartners. Zo kunnen we een passende oplossing bieden voor iedere klantsituatie", aldus Menno Windsma, directeur van e-office Microsoft. "Unified Communications vormt een belangrijk onderdeel in de manier van werken die past bij de 21ste eeuw. Wij noemen dit work21. Als specialist moet je de klant begeleiden in alle facetten van het nieuwe werken. Wij hebben nu de officiële bevestiging van Microsoft gekregen dat we alle stappen in een UC-traject bij klanten op het hoogste niveau uitvoeren.

" Diane Janknegt, Manager Partners SMS&P bij Microsoft, over e-

office als Microsoft UC Voice Partner: "Op dit moment zijn er maar een paar partners die deze status hebben. Dit zijn partners die innovatie omarmen en duidelijk de toegevoegde waarde van Unified Communications aan de klanten kunnen
uitleggen. Voor Microsoft zijn deze partners de 'krenten in de pap' en cruciaal voor ons gezamenlijk succes op het gebied van spraak. e-office bewijst wederom dat zij tot onze toppartners behoren."

Diane Janknegt, Manager Partners SMS&P bij Microsoft

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 SDK version 6907.0

Quick Details

File Name:
OCSSdk.msi

Version:
6907.0

Date Published:
2/10/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
1.1 MB

Overview

Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 delivers streamlined communications to help you find and communicate with the right person, in real time, from the applications you use most.
The Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Software Development Kit (SDK) includes documentation and sample applications developed with the Office Communications Server 2007 R2 platform.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Tomorrow morning stand 4 t’Spant @ Bussum

INFO: Dutch Event information (Bussum Netherlands)

Blog Readers tomorrow is the day. Together with my colleagues I’m attending the New Way of Work event in Bussum. For you information e-office will have stand number 4 right in front of the entrance. Topics of tomorrow:

  • “20 Century” thinking vs. “21 Century” thinking our translation of Work21.
  • What kind of communication channels do we have?
  • How can we make those communications channels unified?
  • Where was the primary focus, do we miss the integration capabilities?
  • What do we mean with Work21? 17 years of experience/investigation on this theory (e-office).
  • Can kind of ingredients do you need while doing a Unified Communications project?
  • How crucial is the technology infrastructure?
  • How can you as customer make the right combinations and integrations. How to improve your business productivity?
  • How to stimulate your end-users while of before using it?

all this kind of stuff tomorrow morning on stand number 4 (Break Out Session Speaker – Joachim Farla [MVP].

Try it by yourself? On our stand we have a complete UC environment deployed (UC Appliance – StartReady) where we can show you the integration of UC in your company. Especially on Enterprise Voice! Stay tuned and enjoy the event.

Integration Tanjay and Communicator 2007 R2

Today I get in touch with the new Integration options for Tanjay Phones in R2. Last week we upgraded all our Tanjays to R2 and that gives us the opportunity to integrate Phone Edition R2 with Communicator 2007 R2.

Highlights integration options:image

  • the Tanjay phone can be paired with Communicator, providing the user with click to call and click to answer calls on Tanjay from the desktop
  • you need to have is a USB cable connect the Tanjay phone to the desktop (no longer need to set your password in the Tanjay phone screen)
  • you can use Communicator 2007 R2 to configure passwords image
  • once you unlock the desktop, the Tanjay unlocks itself as well
  • you can use the Tanjay phone as a speakerphone device for Live Meeting.

This is really great! Especially the integration options in Live Meeting and the Conferencing functionalities.

Stay tuned…

UNIFIED COMMS Designed for Seamless Working

image

Case Study: The evolution to Unified Communications – The Collaboration of Business and IT

Speakers:

Philip Vanhoutte,
EMEA Managing Director of Plantronics

Tony Williams,
EMEA IT Director of Plantronics

Date:

March 12 / Day 2

Start time:

11.50am

Venue:

Unified Communications & Messaging Theatre

The Unified Workplace – People, Processes and Technology – the Killer Mix

Speakers:

Philip Vanhoutte,
EMEA Managing Director of Plantronics

Tony Williams,
EMEA IT Director of Plantronics

Date:

March 12 / Day 2

Start time:

14.30pm

Venue:

Teleworking & Mobility Theatre

Planning Tool for Microsoft© Office Communications Server 2007 R2

Brief Description

The Planning Tool for Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 provides recommended topology diagrams and hardware requirements for an organization based on information you provide to the tool.

Quick Details

File Name:
OCSPlanningTool.msi

Version:
6907.2

Date Published:
2/9/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
1.4 MB

Overview

The Planning Tool for Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 is a Windows Presentation Foundation standalone client application. The Planning Tool Wizard asks interview questions about features that the system administrator is interested in enabling in the Enterprise, as well as information about the Enterprise.
The Planning Tool uses the information gathered from the administrator to dynamically draw a recommended topology for every site that the administrator identifies. Additionally, the Planning Tool calculates the types and amounts of hardware needed across the entire Enterprise, as well as for each site. The Planning Tool also provides links to documentation of the specific planning and deployment tasks that the administrator will need in order to deploy the topology.

Monday, February 9, 2009

Forefront Security for Office Communications Server 2007 Beta 3 available for download

Quick Details

File Name:
setup.exe

Version:
10.2

Date Published:
1/23/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
35.6 MB

Overview

Microsoft Forefront Security for Office Communications Server provides fast and effective protection against IM-based malware by including multiple scanning engines from industry-leading security partners. It also helps reduce corporate liability by blocking IM messaging containing inappropriate content.

Saturday, February 7, 2009

Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Resource Kit Tools

Quick Details

File Name:
OCSReskit.msi

Version:
6907.0

Date Published:
2/6/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
23.4 MB

Overview

The Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Resource Kit Tools provide a set of deployment and technical reference information for Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2. The set of tools and documentation in the Resource Kit Tools can be used as a complement to the Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 documentation or as stand-alone tools.
The tools in this Resource Kit are designed to be used with Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 only.

Thursday, February 5, 2009

TANDBERG Extends Business-Quality True HD Video to the Mobile Desktop

Special thanks to my contact person at Tandberg Nico for pointing me out to this press release!

TANDBERG PrecisionHD USB Camera is optimized for 720p high definition with 30 frames per second enabling HD video over Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 Release 2

NEW YORK and OSLO, Norway (February 3, 2009) –

image TANDBERG today announced a beta program with Microsoft for the TANDBERG PrecisionHD USB Camera, the first ever webcam to offer 720p high definition with 30 frames per second for business-quality live video communications over Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 Release 2 (R2). Announced during the Office Communications Server 2007 R2 virtual conference, the beta program is one more step toward business-quality high definition live video communications for any enterprise using Office Communications Server 2007 R2 tools. The beta program will be initiated in late Q1 2009.image

The PrecisionHD USB Camera is engineered with the highest quality materials and state-of-the-art technology for companies seeking to deploy business-quality video conferencing with Office Communications Server 2007 R2. By employing the standard USB Video Class driver, this sophisticated camera is designed for use with a variety of other PC video applications. There are no additional drivers or software installations needed. Users simply plug it into a USB port for instant access to other webcam, video conferencing or telepresence users. Moreover, when communicating with non-HD users, the PrecisionHD USB Camera optimizes image quality for participants to ensure the best possible experience. The superior quality HD video coupled with a premium built-in noise canceling microphone and auto focus provides a totally seamless experience. 

"This announcement is the next step in our shared vision of a fully integrated, complete unified communications environment. Together, we’ve already opened the world of standards-compliant telepresence and video conferencing to Microsoft Office Communicator 2007 users," said Fredrik Halvorsen, TANDBERG CEO. "Now, with the TANDBERG PrecisionHD USB Camera, mobile workers using Office Communicator 2007 R2 will be able to connect with each other in business-quality true high definition. Jointly, we are changing the way people communicate."

"The combination of Office Communications Server 2007 Release 2 and the TANDBERG PrecisionHD USB Camera provides a powerful new way for people to collaborate and offers customers a rich and integrated communications experience,” said Eric Swift, senior director of the Microsoft Unified Communications Group at Microsoft Corp. “TANDBERG is adding significant value to enterprise communications and enabling businesses to better connect people, information and business processes."

Live demos of the new TANDBERG PrecisionHD USB Camera will take place at VoiceCon, March 30 – April 2, 2009 in Orlando, Fla. The TANDBERG PrecisionHD USB Camera is scheduled to ship in the second quarter of 2009. For more information, please visit www.TANDBERG.com or contact moreinfo@TANDBERG.com.

About TANDBERG
TANDBERG is the leading global provider of telepresence, high-definition video conferencing and mobile video products and services with dual headquarters in New York and Norway. TANDBERG designs, develops and markets systems and software for video, voice and data. The company provides sales, support and value-added services in more than 90 countries worldwide. TANDBERG is publicly traded on the Oslo Stock Exchange under the ticker TAA.OL. Please visit www.tandberg.com for more information.

image

TANDBERG is a trademark or registered trademark in the U.S. and other countries. All other product and company names here in may be trademarks of their respective owners.
Contact:
Jean Rosauer     
TANDBERG     
+1 703.272.2106    
jean.rosauer@tandberg.com

Marcel Goldstein
Ogilvy for TANDBERG
+1 202.729.4188
marcel.goldstein@ogilvypr.com

Meeting Point?

Just for the (Dutch) folks next week image11th of February I’m breakout session speaker on the new way of work event in Bussum (Netherlands). We are going to talk about how to integrate Enterprise Voice in your working environment. Especially focusing on the human and organization part of an Unified Communications deployment. Time 11:45AM-13:30PM

Would you like to try this out? On the stand we will demonstrate the UC Appliance Demonstration Box (OCS on one box, Mediation Server). Special thanks to StartReady for sharing this experience. 

Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Client Group Policy Documentation

Quick Details

File Name:
Communicator_2007_R2_Policies_Documentation.zip

Version:
1.0

Date Published:
2/5/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
107 KB

Overview

When deploying Office Communications Server 2007 R2 clients, one way system administrators can provide the appropriate registry settings for each user is by defining Group Policies using an administrative template (.adm) file. Administrative template files contain specific information about which Group Policies the application implements, where policies are stored, and how to configure policies.
This download package contains the Communicator.adm file and a spreadsheet that documents the Group Policy settings for Office Communications Server 2007 R2 clients, including Office Communicator 2007, Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Attendant, and Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Group Chat.

Microsoft Unified Communications Client API SDK

Quick Details

File Name:
UccApiSdk.msi

Version:
2.0.6362.123

Knowledge Base (KB) Articles:
KB960721

Date Published:
2/5/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
14.2 MB

Evaluate Microsoft Forefront Security for Office Communications Server Beta 3 today

Microsoft Forefront Security for Office Communications Server provides fast and effective protection against IM-based malware by including multiple scanning engines from industry-leading security partners and helps reduce corporate liability by blocking IM messages containing inappropriate content. 

And when you download the beta software, you're automatically registered to access valuable beta resources assembled in one convenient location.

Download here

Unified Communications Under the Hood for Developers

Using Office Communications Server (OCS) 2007 R2 and Exchange Server 2007, Microsoft is providing the infrastructure for enterprise communications including email, voice, video, IM, conferencing and unified messaging. Building on this infrastructure, the UC Platform APIs provide a platform you can leverage to build communications into your solutions - providing incredible value for your users. In this video session from TechEd EMEA, you will be provided with everything you need to know to be successful with this new platform. A quick overview of the server infrastructure of OCS 2007 R2 and Exchange 2007 is provided followed by information on how you can integrate those servers into your overall developer platform. Take an under the hood look at UC and get everything you need to start creating killer applications with communication!

Tags: OCS, Office Communication Server, Office Communications Server 2007, TechEd, TechEd EMEA

Click to see the video here

Forefront Security for OCS (FSOCS) vNext interview

Mike Chan tells us about the new capabilities in the next version of FSOCS (Beta 3 launched 1/23/09) such as keyword control and protection against 3rd party instant messaging content like MSN messenger, AOL, and Yahoo IM.  He explains why you should use FSOCS even though you have other lines of defense such as client anti-virus, integration with Stirling, and whiteboards how FSOCS 3rd party instant messaging content works.
Download the Beta 3 release of FSOCS today!
Learn more about FSOCS

Tags: forefront, Security

Click to see the movie here

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Plantronics Strengthens Unified Communications Portfolio With Its First Phone Handset Optimized for Microsoft Office Communicator 2007

New Wideband Handset Eases Unified Communications Adoption by Providing a Familiar Option to Professionals

.Audio 1100M USB Handset Optimized for Microsoft Office Communicator

SANTA CRUZ, CA--(Marketwire - February 3, 2009) - Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today expanded its growing portfolio of Unified Communication products Optimized for Microsoft Office Communicator with the new wideband .Audio™ 1100M USB phone handset. Plantronics' unified communication product portfolio also includes corded and wireless headsets, giving IT purchasers a broad selection of PC audio products as they deploy Microsoft Office Communicator 2007.

The Plantronics .Audio 1100M USB phone handset is optimized for Office Communicator 2007 to provide the functionality of a familiar phone interface for business users adopting PC telephony. The .Audio 1100M features a standard, 10-key dial pad combined with call-answer and call-end keys, a visual ring indicator, a speakerphone activation key and ringer volume control. A headset jack is also available on the handset for users who want a hands-free option.

The Plantronics MCD 100 USB speakerphone, also announced today, is an option for those conducting group conference calls via Office Communicator 2007. It provides 360-degree room coverage so more than one person can participate in a PC-based audio conference. To achieve call clarity, the MCD 100 includes acoustic echo cancellation, noise suppression and equalizer algorithms embedded within the product.

"Plantronics expects an increased adoption of unified communication applications as distributed workforces become more prevalent," said Amy Huson, director of UC Product Marketing at Plantronics. "More companies will consider implementing Office Communicator 2007, a cost effective method for increasing virtual collaboration. We've developed these products to give IT decision makers and business users cost-effective and familiar options for those transitioning to PC telephony."

Options for IT Departments Deploying Office Communicator

The Microsoft Corp. qualification process addresses IT professionals' concerns about software to hardware interoperability and cross-vendor support. The new .Audio 1100M phone handset and the MCD 100 USB speakerphone offer an enhanced user experience with integrated call control from the Office Communicator 2007 software. These products join the growing portfolio of Plantronics products Optimized for Microsoft Office Communicator announced in 2008.

Enterprise IT buyers can now choose from the following Plantronics products Optimized for Microsoft Office Communicator:

--  .Audio 1100M USB phone handset
-- MCD 100 USB speakerphone
-- .Audio 630M USB wideband binaural headset
-- .Audio 615M USB wideband monaural headset
-- SupraPlus Wideband USB monaural headset


"Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 Release 2 is creating tremendous opportunities in the unified communications marketplace for companies like Plantronics," said Eric Swift, senior director of the Microsoft Unified Communications Group at Microsoft Corp. "We look forward to working with Plantronics to reduce communications chaos and increase business productivity for our mutual customers."



Pricing and Availability



All Optimized for Microsoft Office Communicator Plantronics products are now available and may be purchased through authorized Plantronics resellers. The .Audio 1100M, a USB phone handset, has an MSRP of $79.00. The MCD 100, a USB speakerphone, has an MSRP of $179.00. Announced in September 2008, the .Audio 630M, a multi-purpose binaural headset featuring stereo, has an MSRP of $49.95. The .Audio 615M, a monaural headset, has an MSRP of $44.95. The SupraPlus Wideband USB monaural noise canceling headset has a MSRP of $169.00.



Plantronics - The Voice of Unified Communications



Plantronics offers one of the industry's most complete families of corded and wireless products for unified communications. Widely recognized for their sound quality, reliability and comfort, Plantronics' audio solutions help companies extend the benefits of IP communications throughout the extended enterprise, fostering better business communication and efficiency regardless of where professionals are working.



For more information about Plantronics' UC-ready products, visit: http://www.plantronics.com/uc



About Plantronics



In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: "That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind." Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of innovation is the basis for every audio product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.



Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, and Sound Innovation are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of the respective owners.

Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Release Notes

Brief Description

Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Release Notes for server, clients, and devices.
These documents contain important information that you should know before you deploy and use Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 and clients.

Quick Details

Version:
1.0

Date Published:
2/3/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
7 KB - 150

*Download size depends on selected download components.

DOWNLOAD TODAY!

Overview

These documents contain important information that you should know before you deploy and use Office Communications Server 2007 R2 and Office Communications Server 2007 R2 clients. The following files are available for download:

  • Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Release Notes (Office_Communications_Server_2007_R2_Relnotes.htm)
  • Microsoft Office Communicator 2007 R2 Release Notes (Office_Communicator_2007_R2_Relnotes.htm)
  • Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Attendant Release Notes (Office_Communications_Server_2007_R2_Attendant_Relnotes.htm)
  • Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Group Chat Release Notes (Office_Communications_Server_2007_R2_Group_Chat_Relnotes.htm)
  • Microsoft Office Communicator 2007 R2 Phone Edition Release Notes (Office_Communicator_2007_R2_Phone_Edition_Relnotes.htm)
  • Microsoft Office Communicator Mobile for Windows Mobile Release Notes (Office_Communicator_Mobile_for_Windows_Mobile_Relnotes.htm)

Evaluate Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 today

Source: Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Virtual Launch

Office Communications Server 2007 R2 delivers streamlined communications for your users so they can find and communicate with the right person, right now, from the applications they use most (like Office Outlook). You are able to deliver a variety of software-powered communications solutions, including enterprise telephony, on-premise audio, video, and web conferencing and enterprise instant messaging, while maintaining the operational control required and without expensive infrastructure and network upgrades. And when you download the 180-day trial software, you're automatically registered to receive valuable resources delivered at strategic intervals throughout the software evaluation period.

Please review Office Communications Server 2007 R2 system requirements before you proceed.

Actual requirements and product functionality may vary based on your system configuration.
Download the bits now.

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Attendant Training

Quick Details

File Name:
OCS_Attendant_R2_Training.zip

Version:
2007 R2

Date Published:
2/2/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
13.9 MB

Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2, Group Chat Administration Tool

Quick Details

File Name:
AdminSetup.exe

Version:
6907.0

Date Published:
2/2/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
12.4 MB

Microsoft Unified Communications Managed API 2.0 SDK (64 bit)

Quick Details

Version:
6907.0

Date Published:
2/2/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
15 KB - 80.3 MB*

Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Group Chat client

Quick Details

File Name:
ClientSetup.exe

Version:
6907.0

Date Published:
2/2/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
12.9 MB

Overview

Group chat client for users to join and subscribe to chat rooms, view and post messages and set filters and notifications. Integrated search and chat room management capabilities.

Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Attendant

Quick Details

File Name:
AttendantConsole.msi

Version:
6907.0

Date Published:
2/2/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
12.5 MB

Overview

Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Attendant is an intuitive, integrated call management application that facilitates accurate and rapid call handling and routing for front-line business professionals
Handle high call volumes quickly Typical users of Communications Server Attendant are administrative assistants, team assistants, and receptionists. The application consists of a single full-screen window that lets you view all conversations at once, along with your Contact List. This enables you to follow and prioritize each conversation effectively and, using the consult and transfer features, you can route calls quickly and systematically to the appropriate recipients.
Provide better service to callers Features such as integrated caller history and caller notes provide a context about callers as they appear on your screen. For identified callers, Communications Server Attendant provides such information as their name, title, company and contact annotations. Additionally, configurable call alerts enable you to increase caller context, for example by identifying a repeat caller — someone who has called more than once over a certain time span (30 minutes by default).
Handle calls on someone’s behalf A primary function of Communications Server Attendant is enabling you to accept calls that were targeted at another person, for example an administrative assistant answering a call for the manager. This functionality is highly configurable — you can determine which calls go to the administrative assistant and which calls “break through” to the manager. An administrative assistant can also place calls on behalf of a manager who configures the administrative assistant as a delegate.

Microsoft Office Communicator Mobile 2007 R2 PPC

Quick Details

File Name:
CommunicatorMobile.PPC.msi

Version:
6906.0

Knowledge Base (KB) Articles:
KB960492

Date Published:
2/2/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
4.0 MB

Overview

Microsoft Office Communicator Mobile is a unified communications client for Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2. Communicator Mobile runs on Microsoft Windows mobile 6.0 (or higher) software for Pocket PC and smartphone devices. In addition, Communicator Mobile 2007 R2 enables users to make work calls using their enterprise telephony system via Single Number Reach functionality.

Microsoft Office Communicator Mobile 2007 R2

Quick Details

File Name:
CommunicatorMobile.SP.msi

Version:
6906.0

Knowledge Base (KB) Articles:
KB960492

Date Published:
2/2/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
4.0 MB

Overview

Microsoft Office Communicator Mobile is a unified communications client for Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2. Communicator Mobile runs on Microsoft Windows mobile 6.0 (or higher) software for Pocket PC and smartphone devices. In addition, Communicator Mobile 2007 R2 enables users to make work calls using their enterprise telephony system via Single Number Reach functionality.

Microsoft Unified Communications Managed API 2.0 SDK (32 bit)

Quick Details

Version:
6907.0

Date Published:
2/2/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
15 KB - 63.5 MB*

Overview

The Microsoft Unified Communications Managed API 2.0 is a managed-code platform that empowers developers to build applications that provide access to and control over Microsoft’s Enhanced Presence information, instant messaging, telephone and video calls and audio/video conferencing. It enables both text based, as well as voice based - speech technology enabled – conversations and collaboration.
The UC Managed API 2.0 is intended to support the development of server side, middle-tier applications targeting Microsoft Office Communicator 2007 R2 and Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2. It contains a SIP stack, a media stack as well as powerful speech engines for both automatic speech recognition (ASR) as well as speech synthesis (TTS).
The UCMA 2.0 can be used to communications-enable your business software and processes and can be used to create outbound applications like alerts or notifications and surveys, as well as inbound speech technology enabled interactive voice response applications and automated agents, a.k.a. query response bots. The API gives access to the presence information available in Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 and can be used to build role agents that use Microsoft’s Enhanced Presence information to streamline communications between people.
More advanced developer scenarios enable applications like Automated Call Distributors, that do skill based routing, Conferencing Services, like conference access control, custom client gateways, which can interface e.g. with other communications networks, Interactive Voice Response platforms and speech servers using the Microsoft ASR and TTS engines.

The UCMA 2.0 Core SDK abstracts away most of the Office Communications Server SIP/SIMPLE based protocols by offering an API that exposes almost all of the features of the protocol, but is simpler to understand and use.

The UCMA 2.0 Speech API is a server grade speech API, that allows developers to build multi channel speech recognition and speech synthesis enabled applications using Microsoft’s state of the art speech technology. The Microsoft speech engines bundled with the API support twelve different languages, including English (North America, United Kingdom), French (France, Canada), German, American Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, Italian, Japanese, Korean and Chinese (Simplified and Traditional).

The UCMA 2.0 Workflow API is an higher API abstraction layer of the UCMA Core and Speech APIs that adds unified communications Windows Workflow Activities to the .NET 3.5 SP1 Workflow Foundation for querying presence and IM or speech technology enabled dialogs in Workflow based applications build e.g. on Microsoft SharePoint Server 2007.

Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 UCMA 2.0 Speech Language Packs

Quick Details

Version:
6907.0

Date Published:
2/2/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
21.7 MB - 339.9 MB*

Overview

Speech Recognition and Text-To-Speech Language Packs - the language resources for use with the Microsoft speech recognition and speech synthesis engines that are part of the Microsoft Unified Communications Managed API 2.0 Speech SDK for Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2

Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Group Chat server

Quick Details

File Name:
ServerSetup.exe

Version:
6907.0

Date Published:
2/2/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
259.1 MB

Overview

The Group Chat feature lets organizations set up searchable, topic-based chat rooms that persist over time, allowing geographically distributed teams to better collaborate with one another while preserving organizational knowledge.

Quality of Experience: A Practical Approach to Deploying Real-Time Communications

Quick Details

File Name:
Quality of Experience A Practical Approach to Deploying Real-Time Communications.doc

Version:
2007

Date Published:
2/2/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
843 KB

Overview

Many factors contribute to QoE, and certainly the network is a key element. To help measure the QoE of your deployment, Microsoft has released the QoE Monitoring Server. It has a rich set of capabilities, and if used correctly, can significantly improve your ability to measure and maintain QoE in your environment. This paper describes a process that includes an Office Communications Server pilot deployment, planning a usage model, and proceeding with a phased deployment. If you are a system administrator, you can use this paper in conjunction with the documentation for Office Communications Server 2007 to get started.

Microsoft Office Communicator 2007 R2 Trial Download

Quick Details

File Name:
CommunicatorEval.msi

Version:
6907.0

Date Published:
2/2/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
14.2 MB

Overview

The Office Communicator 2007 R2 contains new collaboration and communication capabilities that can now be accessed from your desktop PC, a public Internet kiosk using Communicator Web Access or a Microsoft Windows Mobile® device using Office Communicator Mobile, helping users operate with more mobility and productivity than ever before.
New capabilities include:

  • With one click share your desktop with colleagues, and share and edit documents in real time
  • Invite customer and partners via the web to a sharing session hosted by you
  • Forward calls to your team or have a delegate answer calls on your behalf
  • Schedule an audio call through Outlook and manage the call through the Communicator conversation window
  • Have a video conversation with colleagues in high resolution

Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Trial Download

Quick Details

File Name:
OCS_Eval.msi

Version:
6907.0

Date Published:
2/2/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
872.0 MB

Overview

Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 delivers streamlined communications for your users so they can find and communicate with the right person, right now, from the applications they use most (like Office Outlook). You are able to deliver a variety of software-powered communications solutions, including enterprise telephony, on-premise audio, video, and web conferencing and enterprise instant messaging, while maintaining the operational control required and without expensive infrastructure and network upgrades.
This Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 Trial Download includes both editions of the server: Enterprise Edition and Standard Edition.
Note:

  • This trial software is intended for evaluation purposes only.
  • When the 180-day evaluation period expires, you can either remove the evaluation copy or replace it with an appropriately licensed version of the product.
  • There is no product support for this trial. You are welcome to share your trial experiences with others and to ask for advice by participating in the forums.
  • To evaluate Microsoft Office Communicator 2007 R2 with Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2, click here.
  • To evaluate Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 Speech Server, click here.
  • Please visit the documentation download page for the latest product documentation and release notes.
  • Public IM Connectivity for enterprise IM is available and requires a per-user, per-month subscription license that is in addition to the Office Communications Server Client Access License (CAL). No trial or evaluation is available for the public IM connectivity service. However, customers have the option of purchasing a small number of public IM connectivity licenses so that their company can try the service, and then increase the number of licensed users once they find the service meets their needs.
System Requirements
  • Supported Operating Systems: Windows Server 2003 R2 x64 editions; Windows Server 2003 x64 editions; Windows Server 2008
  • Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 is designed to operate only on x64 platforms.
  • Client Software Requirements:
    • The recommended client for Office Communications Server 2007 R2 is Microsoft Office Communicator 2007 R2. For more information, visit http://www.microsoft.com/communicationsserver
    • Live Meeting 2007 client is the recommended meeting client for Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2 and can be downloaded here.
    • Microsoft Conferencing Add-in for Microsoft Office Outlook is required for scheduling Live Meetings with Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 R2. Download the Add-in by clicking here.

Monday, February 2, 2009

Springhouse Education and Consulting Services

Special thanks to Joe Schurman for sharing this with us.

Case Study
Springhouse Education and Consulting Services
Training Company Streamlines Sales Process, Improves Service with Web-Chat Solution. More information see

Sunday, February 1, 2009

2 days from now > OCS R2 Worldwide Launch

imageWithin 2 days a historical moment is reached.

Be part of the Office Communications Server R2 Virtual Launch Experience.image

The virtual launch experience will be live at www.OCSR2Launch.com on Tuesday, Feb 3rd, 2009 at 9:30am Pacific Time starting with a......

LIVE Keynote hosted by Stephen Elop, President Microsoft Business Division.

Meanwhile, you can download this reminder to your calendar. To learn more about the product click here.

We look forward to seeing you online. Source.

Conferencing in R2.. How to setup up?

What is Dial-in Conferencing?

This video describes a new feature in Office Communications Server 2007 R2—Dial-in Conferencing.

More info see

How to Set Up your Dial-in Conferencing Account

This video explains how to set up your Dial-in Conferencing account using Communicator Web Access.

More info see

Special thanks to Marshall Harrison - "the gotspeech guy" for pointing me out.

Getting Started with Microsoft Office Communicator Web Access 2007 R2

Quick Details

File Name:
CWA_Getting_Started_Guide.doc

Version:
1.0

Date Published:
1/30/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
713 KB

Overview

This guide gets you started with Communicator Web Access 2007 R2. It describes the new features in Communicator Web Access 2007 R2 and outlines common tasks, including how to use the instant messaging, presence, telephone conferencing, and desktop sharing features of Communicator Web Access.

System Requirements
  • Supported Operating Systems: Windows 2000; Windows Vista; Windows XP
Windows 2000; Windows Vista; Windows XP. This download works with the following Office applications: Microsoft Office Word 2007, Microsoft Office Word 2003, Microsoft Office Word 2002.

Unified Communications Demo 2008

Quick Details

File Name:
Unified Communications Demo 2008.zip

Version:
1

Date Published:
1/30/2009

Language:
English

Download Size:
65.9 MB

Overview

Use this interactive demo to learn how Unified Communications solutions can be used to streamline communications via Microsoft Exchange Server 2007 and Outlook, Microsoft Office Communicator 2007, Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 and Microsoft Office Live Meeting.

System Requirements

  • Supported Operating Systems: Linux; Macintosh; Windows Vista; Windows XP
Requires Microsoft Office System 2003 or greater.