The number of IP PBX lines shipped is projected to exceed those of traditional PBXs this year, for the first time, according to In-Stat. While the traditional PBX is in “rapid decline,” In-Stat says it expects IP PBXs to grow at 6.6 percent compounded annually through 2009.

Increased mobility will be a significant factor in the next stage of IP PBX development, according to In-Stat. Beyond that, the “real changes” will occur when data and ultimately video are added to the mix of collaboration tools that currently includes presence and instant messaging tied to voice. By 2009, “server-based” IP PBXs are expected to represent 91 percent of the market with 28.1 million lines shipped, In-Stat says.

“The IP PBX is revealing itself as more than a simple one-for-one replacement vehicle for digital systems,” says Norm Bogen, In-Stat analyst. “With closer ties to data, this new vehicle is influencing corporate power structures and will ultimately have even more far-reaching effects on how business is done around the globe.”

Further details are available from In-Stat's report, “IP PBXs: Emerging Into Dominance”.

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