Small and medium companies have been slow to glom onto Unified Communication (UC) solutions. To address such issues, Teo developed a platform that integrates these functions into a single system rather than the multiple devices that are often needed.Teo's system relies on a single Linux server, a single administrator's portal, and a single user interface to track calls, emails, and voice mails. The company claims that the Teo UC could cost customers 30% less than conventional approaches, which tend to rely on multiple servers, each supporting a different communications function.

The new product features email, voicemail, voice-conferencing, desk phones, mobile phones, soft phones, IM, fax, and call recording functions. Small and medium businesses can implement functions, such as four-digit dialing, or create a centralized reception desk for all of their offices. In addition, the UC system can be integrated with Teo's Enhanced 911 (E911) emergency awareness solution.

Teo, which recently changed its name from Tone Commander, has been in business since 1972. The company has supplied a variety of telecommunications devices to various businesses and the military, where it had developed a line of secure communications products. The new product thrusts the firm into a highly volatile, fiercely competitive marketplace. On the surface, its system seems to offer the simplicity that small and medium businesses desire from their UC solutions. However, the vendor may find it difficult to build up the name recognition as well as the distribution channels needed to fare well long term in the UC space.