This spring, the BIT Telecommunications and voice-group
teams have been integrating the most up to date phone system technology in the
workplace called voice-over internet protocol (IP). The two types of phone
system upgrades include: desk-type phones and soft phone applications.
1. The desk-type phones are similar to the traditional
office phone, and may have the
traditional buttons or be equipped with a touchscreen.
2. The soft phone applications that staff are currently
testing is a unified communications system. It is an application that can be
installed on a desktop computer and includes a wireless headset/microphone
attachment. This application has the ability to host live video and audio
conferences with up to six people at a time and can also be installed on up to
eight different devices. This technology has the potential to- promote and
increase efficient communication within government agencies, and if security
concerns can be addressed will also allow employees to access their office from
multiple locations, including from home.
To keep up with the increasing demand for mobile devices and
working on the go, BIT is also looking at installing the unified communications
system on various smartphones and tablets, again if security concerns can be
addressed. This application would essentially give complete access to an office
phone, contacts, and email on the specific mobile device it has been installed
on. The long-term goal of BIT is to install these unified communications
systems in all state government agencies to allow for complete collaboration
and efficient communication, but many hurdles must be cleared before that is
achieved. Security and network capabilities are the top priorities in the
process of pursuing this long-term cost saving system.
-Marcus Mahlen