Unified Communications project

About this project

This new unified communication solution will replace existing legacy telephone solutions across campus (i.e., analog, digital, Skype). The new solution is integrated with Microsoft Teams for a better user experience. Members of the University community will make and receive phone calls from within the Teams user interface, providing a convenient, agile, and accessible experience for our University community.

Implementation and migration support

With over 15 years of experience in voice services solutions, Long View Systems is assisting IST with this implementation and transition. Long View holds advanced specializations in Teams phone systems and adoption and change management processes and has enabled over 200 clients across North America on their journey to a modern telephony environment.

More information coming soon

Design and implementation plans are currently being developed, and more detailed migration plans will be announced. Updates and additional information on this initiative will be available on this page as work progresses, including what you can expect to change, and what may be staying the same.

Questions?

Please submit questions to ist-comm@uwaterloo.ca. 

Project FAQs

What are the benefits of using Microsoft Teams as a Unified Communications Platform?

The University will use the same platform for communicating via instant messaging, voice and video calling, virtual meetings and classrooms, team collaboration, content sharing and more.

New features within Microsoft Teams will become available, including integration with your Outlook calendar, booking Teams meetings directly from the platform, access to voicemail, and various productivity apps.

My department already uses Teams. Is this relevant for us?

Yes. As part of this project, you will gain access to an enhanced Teams license with additional features available to you (e.g. integrated calendar with Outlook and ability to make phone calls). More information about new features, including training, will be provided.

Will I need a new desk phone?

All calls will be routed through your computer and mobile devices using Microsoft Teams. After the change to Microsoft Teams, the current Skype for Business-enabled desk phones will no longer function. More information for podiums and 911 will be shared.

What will happen to Skype for Business?

Skype for Business (Lync) was discontinued by Microsoft in 2021. It is no longer a supported platform and is not receiving support for issues or upgrades. At Waterloo, Skype is primarily used for instant messaging and virtual meetings. Both features are available with a better experience through Teams.

How does this affect analog lines?

Analog lines will be upgraded and will continue to work, but will be assessed with a focus on reducing the total number of existing lines where possible.