VoIP migration has begun!
Shepherd University is decommissioning our primarily analog, hosted telephony network and transitioning to Cisco WebEx’s cloud-based Voice over IP (VoIP) technology. This is an extremely large step in the direction of a fully converged network, as well as moving Shepherd University forward towards the Internet of Things (IoT).
Shepherd University IT Services has begun configuration, implementation, and affiliated training, with a phased-in per building approach. The scheduled completion is June 2022. Users interested in learning more details about the benefits of VoIP, beyond the cost savings, may check back here to gain additional information.
New User – Here is a section just for you
We know that new users have many questions starting out. We want to help you and get you up to speed as quickly as is possible.
In order to do this, we have created a page just for you. It should answer most of your questions. The page is located at VoIP New User page and should answer most of your questions.
Approach
The first sets of test numbers have successfully (ported) from our old telephone provider to our new provider. The porting process for each batch of numbers takes upwards of a month to complete. This process is scheduled and will be communicated with your department before moving any numbers. This initial test provides an opportunity for IT Services to address issues during the transition so concerns can be resolved before we start the process for remaining users.
During the transition users still on Frontier will need to dial 304-876-XXXX to reach users on the VoIP system, and vice versa. Extension calling from the other phone provider does not work. Once everyone is converted to the new VoIP system then users can call directly by extension.
When Is It Your Turn?
Please check the FAQ page below to find the list of phases by building. IT Services will communicate directly with your department before we begin your phase. We’ll discuss your concerns, implementation timelines, training opportunities, and phone options before proceeding.
What to Know:
- Flexibility – Users are empowered to easily make personalized adjustments to their phone. If you move to another location/building, VoIP allows users to seamlessly take their phone number with them.
- Enterprise Solution – Part of the upgrade to this new phone system includes licensing for the use of WebEx Meetings. WebEx Meetings is a virtual videoconferencing platform similar to Zoom or Teams but includes additional functionality.
- Efficiency – WebEx calling and meetings are available via one streamlined, simple to use, application packed full of features. Users may download the Webex application to their iPhone or Android devices.
- Download Webex to your computer here: Webex Download
Training and videos coming soon.
Webex publishes training videos on YouTube. Scroll down the page and take a look at the Webex Calling and New Webex Features sections. This videos are designed to be short clips to quickly get you the information you’re looking for.
Are you a candidate for a softphone?
With a softphone application, you may easily place, receive, and manage telephone calls using your computer or cell phone with an internet connection. Faculty and staff continue to use their university number without requiring dedicated telephone hardware.
Consider using a softphone if you:
- Spend most of your day at your computer
- Work remotely
- Change offices regularly or don’t have a permanent office
- Prefer not to have a standard phone on your desk
- Want to help save money and the planet
FAQ’s
Please review the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page to find answers to some of your questions.
** If you just received your new VoIP phone, please look at the information on this VoIP Newbie page to see if your question is answered there. **
Updated March 21, 2022