Fonality, a small provider of open source unified communications software originally based on Asterisk (the IP PBX), has scored a distribution deal with Tech Data Corp. This is the latest in a growing list of channel wins for Fonality, and it reinforces Asterisks’ growing momentum among solutions providers. Here’s the scoop from The VAR Guy.

First, the hard news:  Tech Data Corp., the massive distributor, plans to offer Fonality‘s  open source, Hybrid-Hosted solutions, including the trixbox Pro IP-PBX system that provides VoIP and unified communications for small and medium businesses (SMBs), according to a joint press release from the companies.

The press release states:

More Open Source VoIP Connections

Lovely. But there’s a bigger story here. Although Digium earns most of the headlines in the open source IP PBX market (and Digium is growing its partner channel), Fonality is proving that the market has room for multiple players.

In an email exchange with The VAR Guy, Fonality CEO Chris Lyman described his company’s growing focus on distribution deals. In terms of global distributors, Tech Data is Fonality’s first partner, notes Lyman. But he adds:

In fact, The VAR Guy first reported about the Dell-Fonality relationship in January 2008.

Heading for the Clouds

Now for another twist: Although Fonality, Digium and other open source IP PBX makers offer on-premise solutions, we’re starting to see a subtle shift to cloud-based Asterisk services. Fonality’s Hybrid-Hosted approach, as you may have guessed, involves a mix of on-premise and hosted solutions.

The VAR Guy isn’t done with this story. For a closer look at Fonality, Digium and the emerging open source IT channel, check back Jan. 14 when The VAR Guy unveils The Open Source 50 research report. It’s a safe bet both Digium and Fonality will land in the report.

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