Teams Phones
What are Teams phones?
Teams phones is one of the many different options for softphones, and is the software being used for UAS's phone system. A softphone is a software program used to make calls over the internet instead of reliance on dedicated hardware. This will be accessible on computers, cell phones, and other mobile devices. Desk phone hardware is an additional option, but only available with limited options and additional expense.
Phones Migration
ITS is in the process of early Teams phone testing. As this testing continues, we will develop a timeline for full implementation.
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Testing Teams Phones
Employees in Juneau can stop by the Helpdesk for hands-on training on how Teams phones work, both as software-only as well as physical phones.
Training will be updated as we make improvements to the system.
ITS is working on providing a similar testing setup we provide in Juneau to both the Sitka and Ketchikan campuses.
Please reach out to the UAS Helpdesk for direct support. Through remote support software, we can showcase how the Teams phones software works.
ITS will do its best to allow sufficient time for departments to test Teams phones and ensure concerns are being addressed.
FAQ
Teams phones allow software-based calling, which does not rely on additional hardware. This will replace the current Cisco campus phones managed by ITS.
Hardware phones will be configured on a limited bases, when need justifies additional costs.
At this time, the plan is that all Cisco phone lines will be transferred automatically by ITS upon staggered activation of Teams phones.
Upon full implementation, individual Cisco phones will be fully replaced by Teams phones. The two will not be configured for use at the same time. Both may be in use at the same time during deployment phases.
Teams will continue to be able to use the same Chat functionality that is currently available.
ITS is in the process of determining if phone text messaging (SMS) will be available in our Teams licensing.
Teams phones provide the options both for Call Queues and Call Pickup Groups. ITS is still investigating how to implement all of our current phone functionality.
Teams phones provide several options for alternative calling, such as call delegates and simultaneous ring. ITS is still testing these features.
The current voicemail archiving in UA Google will be maintained. Voicemails in Teams will remain available, but the email archive will be the primary location.
Microsoft provides a Teams mobile app that can be downloaded to current smartphones that enables calling from your UA line from a personal device.
No, other current software will be maintained, and we still recommend their continued use.
Yes, Teams phones will notify you that you're receiving a call with both an audio and onscreen notification. Limited customization is available.
Yes, Teams phones enables users to schedule times they will not receive calls or onscreen notifications.
Teams phones will not be functional during a power outage, similar to the current Cisco phones.
Teams phones will be limited during internet outages, with behavior based on the nature of the outage.
Emergency notices will continue to be provided through the Alertus Desktop app installed on all UAS-built computers. Further implementation is still under investigation.
Yes, Teams phones can be configured for office locations, and will provide notice to emergency responders in the event of a 911 call.
Emergency Service phones such as fire alarms, elevators, and trail call stations work independent of Cisco call infrastructure, and will continue to function after the transition to Teams phones.