Elon University is taking advantage of new technology from Sprint and Cisco Systems to make major enhancements to its campus communications network. Details...
Elon has signed an agreement with Sprint to utilize its Internet Protocol (IP) Telephony solution, with infrastructure provided by Cisco’s Architecture for Voice, Video and Integrated Data (AVVID). Together, the two applications will allow Elon to run its phone network over existing fiber optic cables, offer unified messaging and provide a new voice mail system.
“This agreement comes at an important time in our continued growth,” says Chris Fulkerson, director of instructional and campus technologies at Elon. “Our plan is to be a leader in using the converging technologies by taking advantage of the enhancements offered by Sprint and Cisco.”
Elon will immediately begin deploying Cisco’s Architecture for Voice, Video and Integrated Data (AVVID) solution in all newly constructed buildings, with plans to implement AVVID campus-wide. Moving to a converged business data network will allow Elon to operate more efficiently than can be done with separate voice and data networks and it provides a solid foundation for future network growth.
“Sprint has served as Elon University’s communications consultant and partner for the past 10 years and we are honored that it has decided to continue this relationship,” said Steve Parrott, Sprint state executive for North Carolina. “By implementing this technology, Elon University is making a strong statement that it is committed to providing a rich learning environment using advanced communications technology.”
Elon will also turn to Sprint and Cisco for a new voice mail system and unified messaging, which will allow faculty and staff multiple ways to obtain messages. Unified messaging provides a single point of access to voice, fax and e-mail messages from virtually any communications device, including a telephone, personal computer or Web browser through the Internet.
Sprint and Cisco announced in December 2001 the expansion of their relationship through a three-year strategic relationship. The agreement builds on a long-standing relationship between these telecommunications and networking industry leaders to forge strong sales, joint marketing and technology development ties well into the future. Sprint and Cisco have teamed up in sales and marketing efforts to deliver a wide range of equipment and services to customers. Initially, the companies are focusing on jointly selling IP-based and broadband services, including dedicated IP, IP VPN and IP telephony. Additionally, the companies recently collaborated on the Sprint Enterprise Content Delivery NetworkSM, a new network solution for business that will enable rich distance learning and communication over a Wide Area Network.