The year 2013 could see the integration of social networks, IM and email in the ongoing surge of Unified Communications (UC). As communication options and tools increase, the desire for a simple way to communicate will propel UC into every corner of the world.

Within four years, says research firm Gartner, the market for unified communication and collaboration components (UCC) – which includes things like voice, conferencing, IM and presence – will be driven by consumers who want to use leisure products for work and vice versa. Rather than spending time using each communication tool separately, UC will do it all together whether you’re purpose is business or recreation, merging UC and collaboration components. Happy days!