July 13, 2004

The most common communication device at the University of Houston is getting a facelift.

On July 21, UH’s Computing and Telecommunications Services (CTS) will begin replacing 6,000 faceplates on campus phones.

The faceplates will correspond with the Avaya voice mail system that was implemented in February. Like the current faceplates that correspond to the previous ROLM voice mail system, the new versions will have text key commands to allow for more convenient management of voice mailboxes.

The faceplates will also contain emergency contact information, as well as technical support contact information. CTS will also provide tear-off postcards with quick reference, step-by-step instructions on basic key pad/prompt maneuvers and frequently asked questions.

CTS is working with college and division administrators to schedule faceplate installations, which are expected to be complete by late August.

In addition to faceplate installations, CTS will soon have a new online work request system to process service orders for campus telephones or other telecommunications needs.

Dennis Fouty, associate vice president of central computing and telecommunication services said that a customer focus group consisting of college and division administrators is assisting in developing this new online tool, which will replace paper service orders.

“The online tool has been developed, tested and is now being piloted with the focus group,” Fouty said. “If the pilot goes as expected, we anticipate being able to make the tool available to campus customers who order services from us by the end of this month.”

Mike Emery
memery@central.uh.edu