Paul Cornish, UC Architect at Merlin Entertainment, shares insights from deploying communication systems across 140 global attractions. He discusses the challenges faced during the transition from traditional systems to Microsoft Teams, highlighting innovative solutions and lessons learned. Cornish also dives into the cost-effectiveness of cloud-based telephony, the significance of standardizing meeting room technology, and strategies for managing complex site migrations. His experiences reveal how modern communication tools are revolutionizing guest experiences in theme parks and hotels.
Managing telephony licenses effectively can drive significant cost savings and improve resource allocation within diverse operational environments like theme parks.
Transitioning to modern communication platforms like Teams requires innovative and tailored strategies to address the unique telephony needs of different attraction sites.
Deep dives
Efficient License Management
Managing telephony licenses effectively can lead to significant operational savings. By regularly monitoring the usage of common area phones, it's possible to reclaim licenses that are not in use and redeploy them for new locations. This proactive approach not only streamlines costs but also enhances resource allocation, as demonstrated by the ability to quickly identify and transfer 150 unused licenses to a new deployment site. Such practices ensure that organizations maximize the value of their telecommunications investments while reducing unnecessary expenditure.
Complex Telephony Challenges and Solutions
Transitioning from traditional telephony systems to modern environments like Teams has presented unique challenges for organizations with diverse operational models, such as theme parks and attractions. The integration of multiple telephony technologies, including DECT, SIP providers, and various hardware within vast sites, necessitated innovative solutions. For instance, the migration process involved piloting effective methods for moving more than 250 physical phones in one go, reflecting the need for meticulous planning and execution. Such experiences highlight the importance of tailored strategies that cater to specific site demands and the value of adaptability in complex telephony migrations.
Streamlining Collaboration Tools
The evolution of collaboration tools within an organization has led to standardized systems that enhance user experience and operational efficiency. By implementing consistent equipment across meeting rooms and leveraging platforms like Power BI for reporting, organizations are better equipped to manage their telephony infrastructures. This standardization not only simplifies user interactions with the technology but also enables more effective monitoring of usage and performance metrics. Additionally, ongoing developments in integrating devices and systems illustrate the necessity of innovation in maintaining effective communication channels in diverse environments.
Paul Cornish, UC Architect at Merlin Entertainment, dives into the unique challenges of deploying communications in large theme parks, hotels and attractions globally.
Merlin operates around 140 attractions worldwide, each with unique telephony needs
The transition from Skype for Business to Teams
Cloud-based telephony and its cost-effectiveness
Standardisation in meeting room technology
Best practices for managing complex deployments
Thanks to Pure IP, this episode's sponsor, for their continued support.
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