How Network Architecture Simplifies the Deployment of Unified Communications

Like most enterprises, Cisco wanted to converge its separate voice and data networks to reduce costs, improve operational efficiency, and easily adopt new technologies such as IP communications. However, the size and complexity of the Cisco network required more than a simple redesign. It required a new and comprehensive framework delivered by the Cisco Service-Oriented Network Architecture (SONA), which allows the Cisco network to support reusable, scalable services such as identity management, mobility, security, and voice call control. Cisco IT deployed the Unified Communications solutions incrementally, starting with basic telephony services, then adding advanced technologies and customized applications. The Cisco SONA framework assured that all the underlying network layers were complete and all the supporting technologies were ready as each new solution was deployed.