The timeframe for installation of the new phone system has changed to the beginning of November. Below is a list of some answered questions concerning implementation of the new VoIP System:

End User Training: November 12, 2007 – November 15, 2007.

Distribution of VoIP phones: October 29, 2007- November 15, 2007

Conversion to new phone system: November 16, 2007

Our existing phone numbers will be moved to the new VoIP system November 16, 2007. Due to a lack of available numbers on the Southside of Savannah, AT&T had to request the federal commission to release new numbers for our conversion. The federal issuing process takes about 120 days to complete. AASU will then move to our new block of 1500 numbers in the April/June timeframe.

CIS will only be converting the numbers that we can positively identify. If after the conversion you identify a number that was not converted please notify CIS. We will verify the number and process the conversion if necessary. Examples of numbers that may not be converted are:

1. Roll-over numbers – On a VoIP phone we can have multiple calls to the same number and that number can be displayed on multiple phones. This reduces the necessity for multiple lines to ring multiple phones such as in roll-over situations.
2. Modem lines – it is NOT recommended to run modems over IP connections due to compatibility issues.

There will be two phones on your desk for approximately two weeks prior to the switch over conversion. The two week timeframe will allow for user training, setup of voicemail, and verification. During this timeframe, both phones will be operational (See details below).

•  Present Phone (GTA Phone): The GTA phone will work as it always has until the conversion date. During the 2 week timeframe, this is the phone you may use for off-campus calls and on-campus calls. After the conversion date these phones will no longer work and can be unplugged. CIS will be coming around to all the departments after the conversion to collect the phones. The phones are State of Georgia property and must be surplused according to Georgia procedures.

•  VoIP Phone: The VoIP phone will work for on-campus calls to other VoIP phones only until the conversion date. These phones will not have the ability to call GTA telephones. These phones will not have the capability of making off-campus calls or receive off-campus calls until after the conversion date. We ask that you test the new system by using the VoIP phones for your on-campus calls. During the two week transition timeframe please setup your voicemail password, voicemail message and any speed dial numbers you wish to use. Instructions will be provided with the phone distribution.

Examples:

•  To call a local business you will use the GTA Phone until November 16, and then you will use the VoIP phone.

•  To call another department on campus you can use the GTA phone or the VoIP phone until November 16, and then you will use the VoIP phone.

If you have questions, contact the CIS Helpdesk, via email at helpdesk@armstrong.edu or call 344-2518.