01382nas a2200121   4500008004100000022001400041245002400055210002400079260004200103520105700145100002201202856003601224       2008                        eng d  a1913-610200aOpen Source Telecom0 aOpen Source Telecom  aOttawabTalent First Networkc04/20083 aOpen source telecom platforms have matured to the point where they are often functionally superior to more traditional products. A case in point is asterisk, an open source PBX (private branch exchange) and telephony engine, which was recently named "best IP PBX" in InfoWorld's 2008 Technology of the Year Awards. While industry recognition can be a compelling argument for adoption, it is still difficult to stake one's reputation on the implementation of any software in a mission-critical solution without having first built a solid foundation on which to do so.

With the right approach, you can deliver a superior open source solution to your telecom problems, at far less cost than using proprietary offerings. Implementing an open source telecom system is similar to any development project: there are steps you can take to lower risk and ensure a successful result. This article provides a practical approach for technical implementors to build a track-record of success that will help win approval for more challenging business initiatives.1 aMeggelen, Jim Van  uhttp://timreview.ca/article/135