What are some tools or examples to improve global communication between branch offices in different countries?

My company has offices in several countries and we are looking to improve global communication. While each branch has its own personality there are many missed opportunities simply because there's no sharing of ideas and experiences. How can we take better advantage of the people we already have within the company?

The Technology to enable should be 2 Step:
1. Voice: Enable VOIP platforms across all countries.( It is also a cheaper version of doing it).
2. Data: Connect all offices through a Connected Common Network for sharing of information and Video Conf Streaming.( You will save again on costs involved in travels etc).
3. Software Link- Implement a Business managment system to gain access to leads generated by all your offices and provide access to your Core marketing team to this information across the Globe.

There are lots of tools available to you online. Email is a good way to keep people in the loop, and of course a paper trail is good for documentation. Skype keeps your communications costs down and allows your different colleagues to stay in touch. If you have tech-savvy people in your organization you might consider setting up a wiki for your projects. But overall, nothing beats putting someone in charge of this aspect of your operations - a manager or director in charge of Knowledge Management - especially someone who has both the authority and the skill to get the ball rolling.