While we focus mainly on Microsoft Exchange Server on TheEmailAdmin, there could be situations where it might not be possible or practical to deploy Microsoft Exchange initially.  For organizations that plan to eventually migrate to Exchange however, it may make sense for them to first deploy and use an Exchange-compatible server on the backend while using Microsoft Outlook on desktops and laptops.  This makes it a much easier affair to swap Microsoft Exchange into the backend at the opportune time.

Logic dictates that these products should of course be cheaper than the cost of deploying Microsoft Exchange.  Having said that, what are some Exchange-compatible solutions that support the seamless use of Microsoft Outlook as the messaging client of choice?  I’ve highlighted a few below, though I must say that the list is by no means exhaustive.

MDaemon Messaging Server

The MDaemon Messaging Server by Alt-N is a stand-alone messaging server that incorporates an impressive array of groupware capabilities.  Users can share email folders, access contacts, distribution lists, tasks and notes.  Moreover, calendars support free/busy scheduling, though you might want to check out the full list of features here.  Note that explicit support for Outlook requires the use of a separate Outlook Connector for MDaemon product, which is a plug-in that performs real-time synchronization of the pertinent data between the MDaemon and Microsoft Outlook.

Small to mid-sized organizations with BlackBerry smartphones and who are looking to eventually roll out a full-fledged Exchange and BlackBerry Enterprise Server (BES) infrastructure will find MDaemon’s BlackBerry connectivity to be the best option outside of an actual BES or BES Express deployment.  Alt-N was acquired by RIM a few years ago and sports native support for the BlackBerry; you can check out the full list of support features and security policies here.  Finally, you can access the pricing information for MDaemon Messaging Server here, and that for the Outlook Connector for MDaemon here.

Kerio Connect

Formerly known as Kerio MailServer, Kerio Connect styles itself as an alternative to Microsoft Exchange with additional ability to support cross-platform collaboration.  In a nutshell, Kerio Connect supports multiple protocols and a wide-range of platforms.  Among other email clients, Kerio Connect was designed to connect with Microsoft Outlook and Microsoft Entourage, as well as the major smartphone platforms out there, including the BlackBerry.  Email, calendar, contacts, notes and tasks are supported with Outlook, in addition to the ability to manage shared resources and a Global Address List (GAL).  There is no need to purchase separate connector software, though Kerio Connect is probably the priciest solution mentioned today – though still cheaper than Microsoft Exchange.  You can access the pricing information for Kerio Connect here.

Google Apps for Business with Outlook plug-in

Businesses that prefer to go with the clouds may also want to explore Google Apps for Business, which supports email, calendar, and contacts synchronization with the use of Google Apps Sync for Microsoft Outlook [Direct Download].  Note that tasks and Notes are not synchronized however, while support of groupware capabilities is comparatively leaner compared with the other solutions mentioned here.  Google does say that it will sync with the BlackBerry Enterprise Server, and Gmail comes with the default ability to speak Exchange ActiveSync.  As you are no doubt aware, the price for Google Apps for Business is pegged at a fixed US$50 per user per year, and users get access to 24/7 phone and email support.

Hosted Exchange Server

Despite the dominance of Exchange Server, Microsoft made a decision many years ago to build a hosted version of its flagship Exchange Server.  The result today is a list of partners who now offer hosted Microsoft Exchange to businesses not keen on an on-premise deployment.  To be sure, this option offers the best usability for businesses that intend to eventually deploy their own Exchange Server.

There are many service providers out there, and it is a given that the various terms and conditions must be scrutinized for the best deals.  Since the plan is to eventually move to a self-deployed Exchange Server, businesses should lookout for clauses that may inconvenience the eventual migrations.  In addition, watch out also for additional charges for assistance to migrate your mailboxes elsewhere.  Finally, I have written at length on selecting a hosted Exchange provider last week, which you might want to read about here.

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