With students away on Spring Break, the Wabash College Information Technology department is installing a new cloud-based telecommunications system, Mitel Clearspan.
The upgrade replaces the College’s 20-year old traditional phone system with an internet-based Voice over IP set-up that runs over data networks and not traditional phone lines. The new system provides Wabash with new telecommunication services, significant cost savings, and the flexibility to adjust to emerging technologies.
“The cloud-hosting model lets us take advantage of technology as upgrades and services expand,” said Brad Weaver, director of information technology services. “We want to structure the system to address any technological advances as they arise. This system provides a noticeable cost savings to go with these added benefits.”
Services offered include Caller ID and speakerphone availability at every handset, voicemail to e-mail capability, simultaneous office and cell phone ring, the ability to push active calls to a cell phone, and enhanced 911 service.
The vast majority of the system’s equipment resides in data centers in New Jersey and Texas with phones connected directly via data ports. Due to volume of the service provider, the cloud-based solution provides immediate monthly savings.