As an initial proof point demonstrating Live Communications Server as a real-time collaboration platform, Microsoft introduced controls and new samples that show developers how to incorporate real-time collaboration capabilities into applications. Controls and new samples include these:
- Presence Controls for Microsoft Office Communicator 2005 (previously called Real-Time Collaboration Presence Toolkit) enable developers using Microsoft Visual Studio development system to easily insert presence icons into applications to provide status information of contacts. In addition, the context menu within the icons provides integration with Microsoft Office Communicator 2005, allowing users in the application to launch Communicator's instant messaging conversation or telephone call window.
- Role Agent Sample for Microsoft Office Live Communications Server 2005 provides a sample implementation of role-based instant messaging and presence. The sample gives developers a way to assign a role name, such as "customer service representative," to a group of people to create a public-facing entity that represents the presence of any individual currently in that role. Requests for an instant messaging session with the role can be dispatched to any or all of the available members in the group.
- Custom Alerting Application Sample for Microsoft Office Live Communications Server 2005 shows how to build an application that allows team members to determine whether other team members are online, and to send an instant notification to those members. The application is integrated with Active Directory service and Live Communications Server.
Microsoft said its vision for collaboration is to provide software and services to deliver pervasive capabilities to help enable people to work together more effectively. Software providers, including BrightWork, K2.net, Meridio Inc., OSIsoft Inc., Siebel Systems and Singularity, are integrating presence and real-time collaboration features into their productivity and line-of-business applications.
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