Certified Applications
by Jill Majors, Marketing Manager, Telrex

Choosing business applications can be complicated and time-consuming as there are many different options. While searching for telephony solutions it is important to ask about interoperability with customer infrastructure. One way to do this is to seek out those certified by IP-PBX vendors.

In many partnerships companies have access to testing and technical teams, training resources, and global sales and support. Partners are equipped with tools and information updates to provide responsive, up-to-the-minute troubleshooting and product advice. This reduces risk and can increase effectiveness of investments. Here are a few other benefits to consider:

Product integration – the third-party application, like call recording software, is designed with specific platforms in mind. Since the software developer has a relationship with the telephony provider they can work together to make sure applications work in harmony with one another. In addition the developers can optimize their solutions around the unique features of the PBX and network infrastructure, increasing value in capital expenditures.

Quality and proven solutions – companies that care enough to earn certification and endorsement stand behind their products. Customers can be assured that certified applications support their systems, as they meet or exceed quality standards. In most cases the solution has been has been thoroughly tested and developed to optimize features unique to the platform.

Increased ROI – by choosing a certified solution you can spend less time and money assessing potential providers and perhaps avoid costly customization. Because it has been tested and proven on the telephony platform you may spend less time optimizing and troubleshooting.

Speed of implementation – proven products can be implemented expediently as many potential issues have already been identified and corrected. As a certified partner with the vendor, the software provider is most likely up-to-date with the latest features and developments.

Does this mean you should only recommend a certified product? Not necessarily. However, why wouldn’t your customers choose a product that has been tested and proven in environments similar to theirs? Why wouldn’t they want one that takes advantage of the features and functionality of existing infrastructure? Most certified products don’t cost any more than non-certified ones but may offer greater benefits.

Contact the author at jmajors@telrex.com.

© 2008 Telecom Reseller. All Rights Reserved.