Overview
So what is VoIP? Voice over Internet Protocol is a technology that allows you to make voice calls using a network or internet connection instead of a regular (analog) phone line. VoIP converts your voice into a digital signal for transmission. With the new phone system you will plug your phone into a network jack versus the telephone jack.
Everyone will receive a new Shoretel phone for their desk. In addition, each person will have the option to use a software package called Communicator to manage calls from the desktop. Communicator allows management of calls, voice mail and personal system settings through a graphical user interface. It also integrates with Outlook email and calendar.
Why is VoIP a good thing? VoIP will provide expanded phone services by leveraging this new technology. The many benefits include:
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Unified Messaging |
Integration of voicemail and email into a single interface. With VoIP you can elect to have your voicemail sent to your email increasing productivity and streamlining work. |
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Call History |
View prior calls. With Communicator you can view the last 100 calls. |
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Feature Rich Phones |
Display, speaker phone, and feature keys (transfer, conference, hold, redial and voicemail) on all models |
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Call Presence |
With Communicator, internal callers can see if you are on the phone, in a meeting, etc. |
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Emergency 911 |
When 911 is dialed, the W&M Police Department will know where the phone is located enabling emergency personnel to reach you quickly. |
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Disaster Recovery |
New system has full redundancy and more fault tolerant unlike our current system that has a single point of failure. |
Why upgrade? Our current PBX phone system was installed 22 years ago. Support ended over 15 years ago when the manufacturer discontinued the product line. Both the PBX and the legacy voice mail system are serviced through a third party vendor with an inventory of 'vintage' spare parts. To meet the demands for telecommunications with new building projects and the mandate to comply with E911 requirements a new phone system is required.