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The university is transitioning away from traditional desk phones and moving toward lower-cost alternatives.

In most instances, faculty and staff who have a dedicated desk phone will transition to rely more heavily on the Google suite of products or, where practical to do so, softphones that allow a user to make phone calls over the internet from their computer.

Softphones offer the same functionality (voicemail, extension dialling, etc.) without needing a physical desk phone. They enable easier transfer of phone functionality across locations, supporting mobility in hybrid and remote work environments, while remaining cost-effective and easier to support.

Prior to March 31, 2026, all university units, departments, faculties and colleges will be required to review their current telecommunications needs and setups. As part of this process, units will:

• confirm and validate current telecommunications methods in use (desk phones, cellular devices and plans, softphones, etc.) for all faculty and staff;
• determine individual telecommunications needs based on roles and responsibilities;
• decommission unused devices.

The guide to assess your telecommunications needs provides detailed information to assist units in assessing their telecommunications needs and selecting the appropriate services.