Inter-Tel Introduces Enterprise(TM) Conferencing and Enterprise(TM) Instant Messaging Solutions

SIP-Based Collaboration Tools are Robust, Cost Efficient and Designed to Allow Businesses to Enhance Communication, Improve Workgroup Performance and Increase Profitability

TEMPE, Ariz., Oct. 21, 2003 -- Inter-Tel Incorporated (Nasdaq: INTL) today announced the release of both its Enterprise(TM) Conferencing and Enterprise(TM) Instant Messaging solutions, two SIP-based collaboration tools that are engineered to improve communication and productivity between geographically-dispersed colleagues, customers, partners and suppliers.

"The introduction of both the Enterprise Conferencing and Enterprise Messaging applications is just one example of Inter-Tel's commitment to leverage IP communications to develop applications that enable businesses to improve their processes," explained Craig W. Rauchle, chief operating officer of Inter-Tel. "As designed, these solutions may expand an enterprise's communication capabilities, to allow them to become more efficient and more productive."

A SIP-based solution developed for converged communications environments, the Enterprise Conferencing application provides both audio conferencing and web conferencing components. Requiring no changes to an enterprise's infrastructure or firewall, it provides a low-cost, secure method to share sensitive information with colleagues, clients, customers and other partners. It allows team members to collaborate on documents and other materials, record presentations for future use, and quickly respond to urgent needs by creating "on-the-fly" conferences and training sessions. In addition, the Enterprise Conferencing tool integrates with the calendar functions in Microsoft(R) Outlook, and features a browser-based user interface.

Inter-Tel's Enterprise Instant Messaging tool is a browser-based solution that combines instant messaging with the ability to make telephone and conference calls. As a result, organizations have the ability to communicate immediately with mission-critical parties. Requiring no additional client desktop software, the Enterprise Instant Messaging client enables users to create contact lists, send e-mails and instant messages, and convert instant messages into phone calls when needed. In addition, the Enterprise Instant Messaging delivers enhanced security through its embedded encryption capability, and provides users with a resource to track and audit communications.

"The introduction of the Enterprise Conferencing and Enterprise Instant Messaging platforms is a perfect example of how Inter-Tel uses new technologies to develop advanced, practical solutions that address business needs," said Jeffrey T. Ford, chief technology officer for Inter-Tel. "We are committed to building on Inter-Tel's leading SIP capabilities with applications such as Enterprise Conferencing and Enterprise Instant Messaging designed to help our customers be more productive."

About Inter-Tel, Incorporated

Inter-Tel (Nasdaq: INTL) is an Arizona-based corporation. Focused on the small- to medium-sized enterprise, Inter-Tel offers value-driven communications products; applications utilizing networks and server-based communications software; and a wide range of managed services that focus on voice & data network design and traffic provisioning, custom application development, and financial solutions packages that respond to business communications needs. An industry-leading provider, Inter-Tel employs over 1,700 people, and services business customers through a network of more than 50 direct sales offices and over 350 authorized dealers in the United States, United Kingdom and Asia. More information is available at http://www.inter-tel.com .

This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including statements regarding the ability of the Enterprise(TM) Conferencing and Enterprise(TM) Instant Messaging solutions to improve communication and productivity between geographically-dispersed colleagues, customers, partners and suppliers, or the ability of these solutions to expand an enterprise's communication capabilities, to allow them to become more efficient and more productive. These risks and uncertainties include, among others, risks associated with new product development; availability of inventory from suppliers; the market acceptance of these products and services generally; timely and successful release of defect-free products; retention of personnel working on these solutions; industry, competitive and technological changes; the composition, timing and size of orders from customers; intended use by our customers; and price and product competition. Such statements are based on current assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially. For a list and description of such risks and uncertainties which could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements, please see the Company's previously filed SEC reports, including the company's Form 10-K, dated March 25, 2003 and most recent Form 10-Q dated August 14, 2003. Inter-Tel disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. All products and services mentioned are the trademarks, service marks, registered marks or registered service marks of their respective owners.

SOURCE Inter-Tel Incorporated

Web Site: http://www.inter-tel.com