How BT created one of the world's largest Cisco communications systems at Cambridge

A new Unified Communications System delivered by BT is expected to save the University £1m a year. One of the world’s oldest universities, Cambridge has been a preeminent institution of higher learning since 1209. Today it comprises 31 colleges and over 150 departments, faculties, and schools.

As a leading research centre, Cambridge affiliates have won 85 Nobel Prizes, more than any other single institution in the world.

Fitted in 1985, the University’s outdated telephone system had grown to three times larger than its planned size and was showing its age - causing management problems and making maintenance increasingly expensive.

In replacing it, Cambridge wanted greater operational simplicity, higher efficiency, and lower costs. To help determine who should supply the new communications system, Cambridge turned to PTS Consulting Group, with whom it has a long-term relationship.

“Cambridge needed a platform that would reflect its reputation as one of the world’s greatest centres of learning and research,” says Craig Fenton, the PTS Project Director.

The installation and service contracts were won by BT, who proposed a Cisco® solution.

“What came across strongly with BT was its partnership with Cisco,” Craig continues. “Proven experience with the Cisco Unified Communications Manager and knowledge of IP [internet protocol] telephony were further clinching factors.”

Read the full case study to find out how a new Unified Communications System delivered by BT is expected to save the University £1m a year.