3 Cisco Unity Connection
Key Concepts
Cisco Unity Connection is a unified messaging solution that integrates voice messaging, email, and fax into a single platform. Key concepts include:
- Unified Messaging
- Auto-Attendant
- Voice Mailboxes
- Integration with CUCM
- Speech Recognition
Unified Messaging
Unified Messaging in Cisco Unity Connection combines voice messages, emails, and faxes into a single inbox. This allows users to access all their messages from a single interface, whether it's through email, a phone, or a web portal.
Example: A user receives a voice message, an email, and a fax. With Unified Messaging, all these messages are consolidated into the user's email inbox, making it easier to manage and respond to communications.
Auto-Attendant
Auto-Attendant in Cisco Unity Connection provides automated call handling and routing. It allows organizations to set up menus and prompts that guide callers to the appropriate departments or individuals without the need for a human operator.
Example: A caller dials the main number of a company. The Auto-Attendant greets the caller and provides options such as "Press 1 for Sales," "Press 2 for Support," and "Press 3 for Billing." The caller selects an option, and the call is routed accordingly.
Voice Mailboxes
Voice Mailboxes in Cisco Unity Connection are personal or shared storage spaces for voice messages. Users can configure their mailboxes to receive messages, set up greetings, and manage their voicemail settings.
Example: An employee sets up a personal greeting for their voicemail, such as "You've reached John. I'm currently unavailable, please leave a message." When someone calls and leaves a message, it is stored in the employee's voice mailbox.
Integration with CUCM
Integration with Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM) allows Cisco Unity Connection to work seamlessly with the organization's communication system. This integration enables features like call forwarding, call screening, and unified messaging.
Example: A user receives a call on their CUCM-managed IP phone. If the user is unavailable, the call is forwarded to their Cisco Unity Connection voicemail. The user can then access the voicemail through their email client or phone.
Speech Recognition
Speech Recognition in Cisco Unity Connection allows users to interact with the system using voice commands. This feature enhances usability by enabling hands-free operation and more intuitive message retrieval.
Example: A user can say "Play new messages" to retrieve and listen to their new voice messages without needing to navigate through menus using the phone keypad.