Design & Implementation

The core of the system is seamless voice and data communication; video conferencing is a useful option in some cases.

The question of telephone access is usually considered the most difficult part to get right. In 1998 we pioneered OutRoute, a feature that significantly increases call-handling capacity and provides remote users with perfect sound quality (details on request). Today, with the Panasonic KXTDA platform, we offer both OutRoute and Internet Telephony. Each has its advantages depending on the circumstances. We custom-tailor the system to meet your specific needs, in ways our competitors can't even touch.

Data access is provided through Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). Our open-source designs provide greater flexibility at lower cost than "the usual solutions." Windows, MacOS, and open-source servers and desktops all work together. Security is enhanced by link and batch encryption, with the option of ultra-secure (16k) key length. Video conferencing uses low-cost webcams and multi-party conferencing software, to retain the face-to-face element of a shared workspace.

We are currently developing technology to handle "distributed call centers." Think of your sales or customer-service departments being staffed by telecommuters, where each person gets an appropriate share of incoming phone calls, faxes, and email. At one time this functionality was only available to large companies (e.g. airlines). Now it will be available for any company with three or more employees.

As we say, "The impossible just got easy; the miraculous is in development."

Questions to Consider

Here are some items you can consider when thinking about a system. These are points we will typically cover in design discussions. If you don't have all the answers, our design process can help you find them.

How many employees will remain in your office? How many employees will be full-time telecommuters?

How many will spend some time in the office, and some time telecommuting? Of these, can they be scheduled to be in the office during different days of the week or month? How many can share offices (one person in an office or cubicle on each day)?

How many are frequently moving around: in business travel, on assignments at client sites, etc.?

How many of your telecommuters make and receive phone calls to and from your clients? How many make/receive calls primarily to/from co-workers, suppliers, and other "internal" constituencies (i.e. not clients)? In each case, are the calls many or few; and are they long or short?

How many of your telecommuters need to send/receive large data files such as graphics, sound, video, CAD diagrams, etc.? How many handle email to/from your clients? How many handle faxes? How many handle high-sensitivity confidential data?

And last but not least, what are you going to do with all the time you save...?