Have questions about telecommunications?
Check out our frequently asked questions below, and contact our IT Service Desk at 205-348-5555 with any additional questions.
If a new position is created/hired during the year, will we be charged a set-up fee?
Setup or installation fees are applicable only when OIT needs to physically install a phone or network jack, taking into account the existing capabilities at the office location and the need for a handset for new staff members.
If a new position is created/hired during the year, will we be charged an additional FTE fee?
The fee is calculated based on the Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) headcount, which is assessed annually in October. It is invoiced on a yearly basis, ensuring that it remains consistent during the fiscal year regardless of any fluctuations in staffing levels.
Do we have to return handsets?
There is no requirement to return any handsets to OIT. Moving forward, staff may choose to use a handset, softphone or combination of both. Information regarding new softphone offerings will be available later this year.
Will we be charged additional fees for employees who wish to keep their handsets?
No. Under the new fee model, OIT will support selected handset models as part of the basic telecommunication services. Currently installed handsets will be transferred to the assigned department in October. Handsets will no longer be leased; instead, departments will directly purchase new handsets from approved vendors, like desktop computers and laptops. To purchase additional handsets, departments can follow the instructions on our website.
I no longer want a handset. How do I return it?
First, check with your manager or designated telecom coordinator to determine if the handset might be used elsewhere in your organization. If not, enter a Telecommunication Service Request.
Will I keep my current UA phone number if I return my handset?
Yes, your current UA phone number will be connected to your softphone. Information regarding new softphone offerings will be available later this year.
What about phones that aren’t assigned to an FTE like front desk/reception phones and phones used by student assistants?
There is no change in these services. The phone numbers will continue to function without any additional fees. If a handset needs replacement or upgrade, you will be responsible for purchasing it directly from an approved vendor. OIT will no longer provide handset equipment on a lease basis.
What are the next steps for Verizon’s mobile services?
Jerry Michael, the Client Executive for Verizon, will be contacting departments via email to migrate current services to a departmental account. If a department would like to use a carrier other than Verizon, OIT is currently working with T-Mobile and AT&T to determine the methods for either adding additional services or converting existing Verizon services to another carrier as needed. OIT will continue to chargeback Verizon mobile carrier services until departments either convert to a departmental account or another carrier.
We want to switch carriers. What should we do?
For the time being, services moving to another carrier can stay on the main UA Verizon account until the method for moving those services to another carrier has been finalized. OIT will continue to chargeback Verizon mobile carrier services until departments can convert to another carrier.
Do I still request new service or service changes in the same way?
Yes. Please use the Telecommunication Service Request form.
How does this impact staff funded by grants?
Telecommunication or network fees are generally considered indirect costs, and therefore, are not allowable on externally sponsored contracts and grant funds. The new Infrastructure Technology Services Fee will be allocated to the highest level of a college or department (e.g., Dean’s office). Colleges and departments have discretion as to how or if to allocate the fee to their various departments and programs. Departments will need to submit a cost transfer request through the Office for Contract & Grant Accounting if there is a sponsored fund that explicitly allows a portion of the technology fee to be allocated as a direct cost (prior sponsor approval required).