With the remarkable advancements in technology, consumers and businesses are now provided with a variety of new methods of communication. No longer are the days of using only land line telephones to communicate. We now have sophisticated communication systems that allow us to contact people any time and any place. One form of communication that is becoming a popular choice for individuals and businesses is voice and video messaging.



Voice Messaging

Voice messaging is a computerized method of non real-time sending and receiving of private voice messages. It is an application where voice messages are sent by one person, and then recorded and stored on the recipient's voice messaging mailbox system. The message is retrieved by the recipient for later listening. These messages are received using touch tone phone commands that includes cell phones. The sender places a call and leaves a voice message. The receiver of the call retrieves the message by calling into the system and entering a digital code. The sender can even send a message to multiple people at one time. Voice-messaging systems allow users to retrieve messages from anywhere in the world. Voice messaging providers use an IP-based structure that consists of a message store and directory.

For businesses, voice messaging improves communication both internally and externally. A voice-messaging system can be easily accessed by remote, local, or mobile users using land-line or mobile phones. Messages can also be created in a user's voice mailbox, and then transported to another voice mailbox, much like that of an e-mail system. For instance, a customer or businesses associate can leave a message directly on the users system ensuring messages are retrieved and responded to more quickly. As well, by using such incorporated features as fax/voice mailboxes and pager notifications, there will be significant savings in communication costs.

Video Messaging

Video messaging is much like text messaging, except you only include a video. A video messaging system provides access to video messages using a network provided by the video message service provider. Users retrieve video messages that are stored in a video file in the server system. Users can retrieve these messages from anywhere in the world. The video streaming server stores video message files posted to the video message system. The video message is sent to a user and the recipient accesses the message that is stored in their file. The sender will record a brief video message and then send the message to a wireless phone or any email address. The receiver will access the message through their provider's account. Depending on the video messaging provider's services, recipients of video mail may not need an account to view or reply. Some systems may require a download or installation disk to set up the service.

The increase in communication devices and wireless technology users has made video and voice messaging a valuable tool for individuals and businesses. Service providers are now providing packages that include voice and video messaging services which are implemented using a provider's IP based structure.

Technological advancements have forever changed how we communicate with each other. Video and voice messaging allows business people to maintain contact with their colleagues and customers wherever they are in the world. As for personal use, these messaging systems are a great way to stay in contact with loved ones.