UNISON - Outlook alternative.

[fenixproductions]

Remembering what Chandler was supposed to be (and how much it failed) I was surprised to read about UNISON.

UNISON is free (ads supported) solution for personal info management. It easily handles: e-mails, contacts, calendars, Instant Messaging and VOIP in one application similar to Outlook. Server and Desktop editions are available both for Windows and Linux systems.

More info here:
http://www.unison.com/

Screens:
http://www.unison.com/what-is-unison/unison-desktop/overview.php?ref=architecture

[Curt]

- really impressive!


As I understand the text, I will need my own server, though?

[Carol Haynes]

Yes it is a Server based solution with desktop client software (think Exchange/Outlook) and only uses IMAP.

You can virtualize a server though and use Samba on Linux. If you you are feeling really keen you could set up a multiple server box with VMWare ESXi for free!

Looks interesting though but how long will good forum support last - they are selling support at large corporate prices, and if you want it without advertising support it will cost $50 per year per desktop (or $36000 for an unlimited perpetual license).

[iphigenie]

hmm, i remember using zimbra 2-3 years ago for something like that. Since then they have been purchased (by yahoo?) but are still open source. I might want to compare the two in my never ending quest for the perfect solution

[housetier]

and here I thought unison is a file synchronization tool...

[Carol Haynes]

The main problem is do you want to trust all you email to UNISON (and why would a corporation want to)?

It all looks impressive but I think if they start getting any sort of build of users they will be a prime target form MS to buy out. They won't want any serious competition for the Exchange cash cow!