Telephone upgrade continues

Phase three of the Trent telecommunications upgrade has begun across campus, with conversion of most telephone numbers expected to be completed this summer. This phase involves changing the direct inward dial (DID) number in all departments which currently have voice mail to an extension off the main university number, 748-1011.

The final four digits of the DID number will become the extension number. For example to reach Otonabee College lab, where the current number is 748-1574, a caller after August 15 will dial 748-1011, extension 1574. Fax and ancillary numbers, such as athletics, conferences and print shop, will not be affected.

Phase four will involve the introduction of voice mail to the rest of the campus, followed by DID number removal. DID numbers will be maintained until next May for secretary's lines, to provide time to alter publications in which the numbers appear.

The first two phases of the telephone system upgrade have been completed, with telephone switches at Traill College and on Symons campus in place and operating well. The speech recognition system is processing 358 calls daily, with 95.6 per cent of speech requests being transferred directly or on first confirmation.

With the new system, callers dial 748-1011, after which they have the choice of entering the appropriate extension number if known, or using the voice recognition system to find the person, service or department they wish to reach. Any difficulties encountered in using the system should be reported to Carol Cartwright (ccartwright@trentu.ca). Remember to include the name of the person or department requested.

Bell Canada will make available a reference of call service for one year after conversion, providing callers with the new telephone number if they dial the DID number.

The telecommunications department for a limited time will provide replacement business cards at no charge. Orders should be placed through Richard Miller, 748-1418 (rwmiller@trentu.ca).

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