April 2005 — Applications
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Amarillo ISD Improves Functionality, Reduces Phone Costs With Digital Communications System
In addition, outside callers can locate staff through the built-in directory, which routes the calls and gives callers the direct number for future reference. That same directory also streamlines call transferring for staff, who can now type in a few characters to find the right extension to route the call in just seconds. With 500 users making numerous calls every day, that feature allows staff to be more productive.
Call Management
ShoreTel workgroups allow each department to designate its own call flow. For example, if a department wants a live person to answer calls, it can choose to route them sequentially from one person to another until the call is answered, or have the calls go to one extension. For busy times, such as holidays or off-hours, staff can easily program auto-attendants to answer and direct callers to the appropriate extensions, relieving departmental staff from having to turn the auto-attendant on when they leave.
In departments like Human Resources and Food Services, workgroup management has transformed communications. In HR, an auto-attendant directs calls to the right individual based on need - whether related to contracts, employment, benefits or substitute teachers - relieving the person who previously answered every incoming call. Also, Food Services more effectively manages daily calls from cafeteria managers at each of the more than 50 school cafeterias.
Beyond that, the district takes advantage of ShoreTel’s converged conferencing technology, which connects administrators and staff so that they can join teleconferences instead of having to drive across the city to meet. The district will gradually expand the system to all campuses, as well as roll out voice mail and phones to every teacher. AISD remains confident that ShoreTel’s flexibility will accommodate its growing needs cost-effectively.
AISD upgraded its phone system to a feature-rich digital communications system that allows office staff to focus more on their jobs, rather than on answering the phone. Workgroups empower them to manage their changing call-flow needs, while an auto-attendant directs callers to the right person. The IT staff easily manages the system, saving countless hours of driving to schools to make moves, adds and changes.
The district saves more than $20,000 a year compared to its old system, and has a flexible, scalable platform for cost-effective expansion as it grows. Most importantly, features like voice mail and unified messaging provide teachers and parents with an easier way to communicate.
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