Guide Topic
New Employee Phones
Information
The College is in the process of moving to an all computer-based or “softphone” system replacing desktop handsets at employee locations. Beginning with the Academic Year 2022, requests for telephones will be fulfilled with computer-based telephones. Currently, the computer-based telephone is Cisco Jabber and will transition to Microsoft Voice over the next year. Microsoft Voice is a Teams integrated application and all calls will be made from inside of Teams.
New Employees
Work spaces, with desktops, have Cisco Jabber installed as part of their base set of applications. As TCC shifts from a desktop workspace to a more mobile and agile workspace/workforce, desktops are being replaced with computers in the form of tablets and laptops. Beginning with the Fall Term in 2021, ALL new employees are being provided computer-based phones only. A headset with microphone will be provided and setup when the employee’s mobile computer is delivered by Service Desk personnel.
If the new employee's workspace is already outfitted with a physical phone, that phone will remain in place until such time as TCC transitions to Microsoft Voice. Physical phones will be collected during that transition.
Cisco Jabber - no longer available.
With the enactment of the e911 mandates, Cisco Jabber is no longer an option as it is non-compliant with this mandate. All users of Cisco Jabber are being transitioned to Microsoft Teams Voice.
Microsoft Voice
Microsoft Voice is part of Microsoft Teams. It is a replacement for the traditional Voice over IP (VoIP) phone system in use at TCC today. Microsoft Voice gives users the flexibility to be mobile and access calling functionality from devices such as computers, laptops, tablets, and cell phones. Microsoft Voice users will be able to use standard phone numbers to make and receive calls whether they are on campus, working remotely, or on the go. Having this calling functionality makes collaboration and communication unified all in one platform. Being freed from having to be at a traditional desk phone gives users flexibility while maintaining professional communications channels.
The time line to transition from Cisco Jabber to Microsoft Voice is currently in progress. Our Project and Portfolio Management Team will be in contact with you as your department begins to transition.