Sitewide Telephone System Replacement

Notice: All voicemail users must complete enrollment. See instructions for enrollment.

The Information Technology Division (ITD) will deploy Cisco Unity Connection as the new voice messaging system at 7 p.m. Friday, December 9, 2011. This will replace the old Octel voicemail system in use since 1995.

This is part of a Lab wide, multi-year project to replace the current telephone system that will no longer be supported by the manufacturer in the near future. The new system will provide advanced technology and supports the Lab’s Blueprint initiative for growth and development.

There will be a self-enrollment process from November 21 through December 8 for all employees, visitors, and guests who have voice mail. It is essential that you enroll during this period to ensure a smooth transition to the new system and to avoid interruption of your voice mail service.

Enrollment Assistance — The self-enrollment process includes recording a new greeting. The new system is easy to use and requires no extensive training. Detailed enrollment instructions can be found on the Voicemail page of this site.

Live Help Session — In addition to the website, ITD telecommunications personnel will be available on Wednesday, December 7, in Berkner Room C from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to assist you in setting up your new voice mail.

What to Expect — During the upgrade, voice mail service will be unavailable from 6 to 7 p.m. on Friday, December 9. Telephone service will still be available during the upgrade; however, no one will be able to leave you a voice mail message and you will not be able to check messages during the period specified above. After the upgrade, you can access your new voice mail by dialing Ext. 4500 or (631) 344-4500 from an off-site phone.

Old Greetings and Messages — Mailbox greetings and unread or saved voice messages from the old system WILL NOT be migrated to the new system. You will not be able to listen to them. Therefore, ITD recommends that you add a disclaimer message to your current voice mail greeting telling all callers about the upcoming change and asking them not to leave messages on Friday, December 9. We advise you to record this disclaimer message no later than November 30. Before 6 p.m. on December 9, you should listen to all your voice mail messages and transcribe them.

Support and Questions — The ITD Helpdesk is your central point of contact for help, service, and support. Email itdhelp@bnl.gov or dial Ext. 5522 or (631) 344-5522 from an off-site phone.