The cost of the systems was significant, noted Law, who added: "given the ongoing high cost of IP Phones, the phased migration makes business sense to us. Maybe within the next five years we'll have a 100 percent IP voice network."

The new features and capabilities will help the university continue its push for more collaboration and distance learning applications.

The VoIP system also allows for flexible network planning in future expansion projects. Patching voice cables to new or yet to be built facilities would have been severely restricted under the old centralized PBX system. Wiring new sites to the data network is much easier as the structure is much more layered, added Law.

Smooth uptake

Helpdesk operations have also improved as email and voice messaging are now consolidated, allowing for recording of all enquiries and easier management overall.