Voice Services

What's New

Microsoft Teams for Calling!

We are excited to announce the kickoff of our project to migrate from our legacy phone system to Microsoft Teams for Calling. This project will provide a cost savings to the university, as well as an improved user experience. 

Click Here for a feature overview video.

IS&T will be working alongside the campus community to keep you up to date on the progress of this project. We will continue to update this web page with relevant information.

Timing

  • The transition will begin Fall Semester 2024 with an initial pilot group testing the platform.
  • The majority of users will be migrated to Teams Calling in a phased approach, usually by department.
  • You will receive notification when your service is scheduled to be converted.

FAQ

  • Q: Will my NEC desk phone continue to function?
    • A: Your desk phones will be retired from service and decommissioned at a future date.
  • Q: My computer doesn't have speakers and a microphone, what should I do?
    • A: IS&T will provide wired headsets upon request.
      • Teams certified Bluetooth headsets will be available for department purchase through MagnusMart.
  • Q: I work in a cubicle, how will Teams Calling maintain the privacy the legacy system provides?
    • A: Microsoft Teams offers multiple solutions to this issue, you may use Teams on a mobile device, use a wired headset (provided by IS&T upon request), use your own headset, and if necessary, Teams certified desk phones will also be available at cost of $200.00 to be charged to the department.
  • Q: We have a department phone that is answered by any available team member. How is this addressed in the new system?
    • A:  Teams certified desk phones will also be available at cost of $200.00 to be charged to the department.
  • Q: How will main department numbers be answered?
    • A: Department numbers will be answered by a delegate group within Teams.
  • Q: Will current extensions with special phone tree menus be affected by this?
    • A: Telecom will maintain phone trees in the Teams platform.
  • Q: Will my number change?
    • A: You will retain your existing phone number upon migrating to Microsoft Teams.
  • Q: I need a desk phone to do my job, will there be desk phones available?
    • A: In some cases, Microsoft Teams-compatible desk phone will be available depending on your role, at cost of $200.00 to be charged to the department
  • Q: Will training be provided, how will I make calls in the future?
    • A: Yes, we will be available to assist throughout this process and conduct training sessions. After migration, phone users will be able to make/receive calls using the Calls tab within Microsoft Teams on your computer or mobile device.
  • Q: I don't have a phone number currently, can I request one?
    • A: If you are not currently assigned a direct dial phone number, your department may request one on your behalf.
  • Q: I like the current system and feel Teams for Calling will not work well.
    • A: Our pilot group comprised of over 30 faculty and staff have found the call quality on par if not better than the current phone system. They also noted that that flexibility this system provides improves the user experience.
  • Q: My question is not listed here, what should I do?
    • A: If you have any questions, please contact CSU Telecommunications at 216-687-3881 or email telcom@csuohio.edu.

Highlights

  • Improved user experience
    • Make and receive calls from any device signed into Teams
    • Integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft systems
  • Flexibility/Mobility
    • Seamlessly transitions from on-prem to hybrid
    • Easily scalable for institutions with fluctuating needs
  • Security and Compliance
    • Built in robust security features
  • Cost savings
    • VoIP is more cost-effective than traditional landline phones

Quick Start Guides