I've been using Office Communicator for a number of months now and I have noticed how it's quickly become intertwined with the way in which I work.  The real-time communication enabled by Communicator for instant messaging/audio or audio/video (PC to PC audio and video) or through collaboration using application/screen sharing and white boarding helps me be more responsive to the needs of my colleagues and the wider business. All of these features deployed right across any business would provide enhanced responsiveness, decision-making, and customer service allowing users to be more efficient and productive.

Being able to get an instant response to quick queries has sped up decision making within our product teams. While the ability to share my desktop with a colleague to discuss a product scope document or project plan, without having to be in the same office, is something I could now not live without.

But mostly importantly - presence; it runs through IM, Outlook, SharePoint and Dynamics CRM allowing me to see who's online, where they are and what they are doing. It allows me to make a decision very quickly whether I should instant message, email or call someone to get a decision made or the information I need.

Before using Communicator, I'll admit it, I was sceptical; another desktop tool, another way for people to distract me and more messages to manage.  Now, I don't want to turn it off. It's here to stay. I'm convinced it's something that will allow our customers to get more value out of email and telephony, while getting their hands on some great new time saving features.

More to follow on Star's instant messaging service, WorkLife IM, over the coming weeks.

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