Unified Communications Project (Zoom Phone)

About Unified Communications

Technology Services is embarking on a project to modernize the University’s outdated telephone system by improving performance, reducing security vulnerabilities, and decreasing operational costs. Our plan is to achieve a Unified Communications System by leveraging our existing Zoom platform. 

Zoom Phone was rolled out to the Fresno State campus on November 8, 2022.

Unified Communications (UC) is a term used to describe the integration of multiple communication tools -- such as voice calling, video conferencing, instant messaging (IM) and content sharing into a single, streamlined connection, with the goal of improving user experience and productivity. UC supports a user's ability to switch seamlessly from one mode of communication to another within a single session, whether on a desktop computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone. 

               Zoom phone - Weekly Drop-In Q&A Sessions 

Why Zoom Phone? 

Zoom is familiar to the campus community and will allow for a smooth transition. The University currently uses Zoom for audio and video conference meetings and will expand to include telephone usage across the campus this fall.

Technology Services enlisted a group of approximately 50 campus users from across the University to participate in a 90 day test pilot in spring 2021. Participants concluded that Zoom Phone enhanced their current campus communication processes and provided new ideas with the potential to transform the way they work with colleagues across the entire organization.

What is Zoom Phone?

Click on this link for an overview of the Zoom Phone App.  Some of these features in the video may not be available at Fresno State.

When will this change happen?

Zoom Phone was integrated during the summer and fall of 2022. 

How will the migration happen?

A plan of action is being developed for the Unified Communications (Zoom Phone) project. Prior to any implementation, the core project team will work closely with deans, chairs, and managers in advance of their migration date. 

Communication updates, open forums and training will be provided for the campus community as we move along in the process. Stay tuned for additional information. 

Please Note: 

Zoom Phone uses a softphone client to receive and make calls from a computer or a mobile device.  You can purchase a handset for each of your offices if you choose to.  Please visit this webpage for the choices available to purchase and coordinate with your department and area ITL (IT Personnel).

Benefits of Zoom Phone

• No need for a deskphone
• Make and receive calls from your existing Zoom app on your desktop, laptop, tablet or mobile phone (optional)
• Use your cell phone for business calls without having to use your personal cell number (this will use your data plan)  
• Voicemail messages will automatically be transcribed
• Seamless transition from chat to voice call to Zoom Meeting
• Intelligent call routing and auto attendants available