In response to ongoing financial challenges, the University of Waterloo has announced plans to discontinue desktop phone services in its Faculty of Engineering, effective March 31, 2025. The move aligns with broader cost-saving measures aimed at ensuring the university’s long-term financial sustainability.
Currently, the Faculty of Engineering spends over $200,000 annually on desktop phone services, including traditional landlines and IP-based connections such as Skype for Business. However, data analysis has shown that these phones are rarely used, with most communication now occurring through digital platforms like Microsoft Teams, email, and other online tools. Additionally, many faculty and staff members rely on personal mobile devices, reducing the necessity of maintaining desktop phones.
Following similar transitions in the Faculties of Mathematics and Science, the Engineering Faculty will eliminate desktop phone services unless a specific operational or safety need is identified. Employees who require a desktop phone for business purposes must submit a request by March 1, 2025, including their phone extension number, justification for retaining the phone, and a funding source to cover ongoing monthly costs. These requests will be reviewed by the Dean’s Office and respective departments, with final decisions communicated to applicants.
For those whose requests are not approved or who do not submit a request, desktop phone services will be discontinued by March 31, 2025, and physical phones must be returned to designated drop-off locations. The Dean’s Office will work with relevant departments and the Safety Office to ensure that essential landline services remain available for safety requirements.
Faculty and staff whose phone services are currently funded through external research grants will not be affected by this change. Additionally, employees working in areas equipped with panic buttons must provide an alternate phone number to ensure emergency response teams, such as Special Constables, can reach them in urgent situations.
The University has expressed appreciation for the cooperation of its faculty and staff as it seeks to optimize resources and improve financial sustainability. For any questions or further clarification, employees are encouraged to reach out to the Faculty of Engineering’s telephone services team by sending an email to: telephones.engineering@uwaterloo.ca.
Drop-off Locations for Physical Phones
CEE – Lorraine Quast E2 2331
CHE – Erene Georgiou E6 3024
ECE – Reception EIT 3033
MME – Michelle Symons E5 3001
MSCI – Andrea Christian CP 4301
SYDE – Sarah Landy E5 6122
All other units – Karen Dubois E7 7308