To visit the FAQ page, click here.

 

 

A nine-month effort aiming to transform UCSB telephony capabilities by replacing the current legacy phone system with Zoom Phone, a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) system. An updated phone system will enhance the way our campus communicates in an increasingly mobile world. 

Visit the Zoom Phone training page.

Why is our phone system changing?

UCSB operates a traditional landline telephone system supporting over 5,400 lines and 90,400 calls each month. It requires specialized knowledge to operate and maintain, has high annual maintenance costs and capital expenses, and the hardware components are outdated. This system lacks the flexibility to easily deploy common features of modern systems, such as voice over internet (VoIP) for remote users, caller identification for incoming calls, and SMS messaging options. Service portability is not available, hindering an increasingly mobile workforce. 

 

What is Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)?

Voice over internet protocol, or VoIP, allows users to make and receive calls using the internet. VoIP calls can be made with any device that has a reliable internet connection, including a desktop, laptop, smart phone, or tablet. Visit our VoIP page to learn more about what this service will look like at UCSB.

Benefits for users

  • Consolidates communication tools and reduces administrative complexity with one application utilized for both meetings and phone calls.
  • Supports work efficiency by offering communication tools that can be used anywhere.
  • Increases channels of campus communication available with the addition of SMS and Internet voice calls.
  • Reduces maintenance needs and likelihood of system errors.
  • Ability to change your caller ID from your campus number to your departmental number.
  • Provides one number that you can be reached at from a desktop computer, mobile phone, or physical desk phone, anywhere you can get Internet.

Timeline

After a public announcement to campus on August 29, 2022, the project team will begin work designing the new system. A test group of campus staff members will be part of early adoption in mid-November of the same year, with training activities for all campus users beginning at the start of 2023. All users will have migrated from the current landline system to Zoom Phone by June 2023.

 

Campus Telephony Project Timeline

Upcoming Migrations

Past Migrations

Frequently Asked Questions

For questions on the campus telephony refresh project or VoIP services, visit our FAQ page.