Abstract: Systems and methods according to the present invention may include providing a first directory service program, a second directory service program, and a directory service access program for handling client application information requests. The directory service access program may direct and manage the client application information requests to either the first directory service program if the requested information is associated with the first directory service program or the second directory service program if requested information is associated with the second directory service program.

Abstract: A data management system with data stored in multiple disparate formats in synchronized stores, method of synchronizing the data and recovering from synchronization failures and program product therefor. Data changes in one data store are cached in a universal format in an active synchronizer and forwarded to a second store from the universal format cache. Standby synchronizers provide failover handling by identifying synchronization failures and self-selecting a replacement synchronizer to serve as the active synchronizer.

Abstract: A data management system with data stored in multiple disparate formats in synchronized stores, method of synchronizing the data and recovering from synchronization failures and program product therefor. Data changes in one data store are cached in a universal format in an active synchronizer and forwarded to a second store from the universal format cache. Standby synchronizers provide failover handling by identifying synchronization failures and self-selecting a replacement synchronizer to serve as the active synchronizer.

Abstract: Systems and methods according to the present invention may include providing a first directory service program, a second directory service program, and a directory service access program for handling client application information requests. The directory service access program may direct and manage the client application information requests to either the first directory service program if the requested information is associated with the first directory service program or the second directory service program if requested information is associated with the second directory service program.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for providing Instant Messaging (IM) capability in digital telephone sets is disclosed. The invention allows telephone users to compose and display Instant Messages and to exchange contact lists with other telephone users or users of an Internet-based messaging system. The method of the invention in one embodiment allows digital telephones, with limited keys and display space, to support the full functionality of Instant Messaging. Quick compose and quick reply mechanisms allow sending common messages with minimum keypad button pushes. The invention also allows Computer Supported Telephony Application (CSTA) based messages to interface with the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) messages, thus permitting IM exchanges between digital telephone set users and Window Messenger clients.