I NSTRUCTIONS 48
Proposers are required to answer all questions in this section independently, ensuring each response is clear and understandable without referencing other questions or answers Responses should be thorough and directly address each numbered item, avoiding vague references to external materials unless specifically requested It is essential to maintain technical accuracy and comprehensiveness in all replies, and answers must follow the order of the listed items Any failure to respond to each numbered item will result in a non-responsive submission.
S YSTEM A RCHITECTURE 48
Provide the following information on the proposed switching system:
The system architecture is designed to ensure optimal functionality and efficiency, featuring a comprehensive layout that encompasses both the overall system design and the specific equipment arrangement The first topological drawing illustrates the overarching structure of the system, highlighting key components and their interconnections The second drawing focuses on the typical equipment layout within each building, room, or area, providing a clear visual representation of how the devices will be installed to maximize performance and accessibility.
Briefly describe the system’s central processor.
Briefly describe the system’s switching bus.
Briefly describe the redundant capabilities of the switching bus
Not all ports within a cabinet or node have access to every time slot available The access rate and intervals for ports to utilize time slots for call processing can vary significantly Understanding these limitations is crucial for optimizing call handling and ensuring efficient communication within the system.
What is the standard blocking ratio of the proposed system for trunk and station calls? Use Erlang B table if appropriate.
Explain how the system growth and expansion is accomplished and the expected downtime for each critical system component during system upgrades.
Is load balancing required with growth and expansion? If yes, describe.
Describe the main memory; identify type and size.
Is system memory redundancy available? If yes, describe.
What type of error detection & correction is utilized by the system memory?
State how the vendor provided voice-switching system would provide SMDR to the existing Pinnacle Axis Telemanagement system in real time.
The integration of the Voice Switching System with the Axis Telemanagement System is facilitated through various automation interfaces, enabling seamless activation, updating, and deactivation of line, feature, and authorization codes directly from work orders within the Axis Telemanagement System This streamlined process enhances operational efficiency and ensures accurate management of telecommunication features.
State the devices or equipment required to integrate the vendor SMDR output of the voice switching equipment to the existing Pinnacle Axis Call Accounting system.
Provide a detailed description of the SMDR record layout.
Provide a sample of the SMDR records that the system produces.
State the maximum number of trunks and stations that the system will support without requiring main processor upgrade or change out.
State the Busy Hour Call Completion and Busy Hour Call Attempts capacity of the proposed system. Define “Call Completion” and “Call Attempt.”
How is the memory of the off-line processor kept up to date with the memory of the on-line processor?
In a system with duplicated main processors, seamless switching between processors is essential for maintaining operations during scheduled or emergency situations This transition must occur automatically, ensuring that established calls and ongoing processes are not disrupted The switchover is designed to happen without human intervention or the necessity to reload memory, guaranteeing uninterrupted service and reliability.
Is there a single point of failure in the proposed system? If yes, describe.
Will duplication of a specific component or piece of equipment eliminate this single point of failure in the system? If yes, describe.
The failure of a node or module can significantly impact the overall system, affecting numerous customers depending on the scale of the failure Key system functions or features may be lost, ranging from critical operations to less essential services The severity of the impact varies, with critical failures leading to substantial disruptions, while minor failures may result in limited functionality Understanding the hierarchy of these failures is essential for effective risk management and system resilience.
State the maximum number of ports (lines and/or trunks) impacted if a circuit card, other than a port card, fails.
The Voice Switching System offers robust capabilities for backing up and storing both active and offline databases, ensuring seamless access to processing information Users can retrieve various reports and data from these databases, including call logs, system performance metrics, and user activity summaries For instance, an active database report may detail real-time call statistics, while an offline database report could provide historical usage patterns and trends, facilitating informed decision-making and system optimization.
Describe the ability of the Voice Switching System to print active status of switching systems and features in real time Provide a sample of a real time print out.
Describe the ability of the system to view system status from a web browser or other remote sites.
Describe the typical time of day that diagnostics and other system tests are completed and the ability to modify this action based on external events or traffic load.
The vendor plans to deliver services to customers by maximizing the use of the existing outside copper and fiber cable infrastructure This approach not only enhances efficiency but also minimizes costs associated with new installations To illustrate this strategy, two topological drawings will be provided: one will depict the overall system design showcasing the reuse of current cable systems, while the other will outline the additional outside cable plant equipment and devices necessary for the successful implementation of the vendor's recommended solution.
Describe how the vendor intends to install or modify existing outside cable plant and provide a timeline for construction Include each building that will need modifications.
How does the proposed system support the following CLASS features:
Distinctive ringing (customer programmable for selected incoming calls)
Caller ID name and number
Call waiting name and number
How does the proposed system support station features such as automatic call return over the tie lines between the VSS and the Verizon Centrex group for residential customers?
How should the tie lines be optioned to minimize feature barriers?
To effectively recognize and route station dialing restrictions within the Verizon Centrex system, the proposed solution must address the current limitation of the Verizon software in the 5ESS, which does not support traveling class mark Implementing a system that can identify and manage these dialing restrictions will enhance call routing efficiency and improve overall telecommunications performance.
What features and restrictions will not work over the tandem tie lines in either direction, i.e., what are the tie line barriers that we can anticipate with your VSS?
State the maximum number of ports on each of the following types of circuit packs.
Circuit Pack Number of Ports
Voice Only Data Only Voice/Data
Voice Only Data Only Voice/Data
Central Office (CO) Direct Inward Dial (DID) Tie Trunk
Describe in detail the ATM interface for your proposed system.
Describe in detail the SONET interface for your proposed system.
V OICE E QUIPMENT AND I NTERFACES 50
The system's flexibility in handling moves, adds, and changes (MACs) is crucial for efficient operations The MAC process typically involves several key steps, including planning, execution, and verification For analog, digital, and VoIP phone sets, the time to complete a typical MAC can vary; however, it generally takes between 30 minutes to a few hours depending on the complexity of the request Each phone type supports multi-line key appearances and can be configured with at least three essential features such as call forwarding, voicemail, and speed dialing Effective management of MACs ensures seamless communication and minimizes downtime within an organization.
Describe traffic management/statistical reports including trunk routing, abandoned calls and calls returned to operator Provide a sample of a typical daily, monthly, and annual report.
Describe the ability of the Voice Switching System to produce predefined and/or on-demand reports.
Moves, adds, and changes (MACs) for customers involve specific procedures that require appropriate equipment and access levels These tasks can often be managed through a web browser, enabling users to complete MACs efficiently from a remote location By leveraging online tools, organizations can streamline the process of managing customer requests, ensuring timely and effective changes to services.
The vendor's database systems must effectively identify a MAC address and update various interconnected databases, including E911, Voice Mail, Unified Messaging, and Network Management, ensuring seamless integration and accurate data across all platforms.
State if downtime or swapping of processors or other actions are required to implement a system wide change.
Describe the ability of the Voice Switching System to implement PSTN area code or prefix changes.
Describe the ability of the Voice Switching System to block calls to specific area code and prefix combinations (e.g., block calls to specific 1-800-NXX-XXXX numbers).
The Voice Switching System can effectively manage multiple prefixes within the campus dialing plan, allowing for streamlined communication The vendor will establish a 5-digit dialing plan that connects the 893 and 971 prefixes, facilitating efficient calls between these two areas Additionally, a 4-digit dialing plan will be implemented for internal calls within each of the two prefixes, enhancing connectivity and simplifying the dialing process for users.
The Voice Switching System offers advanced capabilities to enforce specific dialing restrictions for campus extensions This system effectively manages on-campus, non-toll, and toll dialing, ensuring compliance across various regions, including worldwide, the USA, Canada, Southern California, and the 805 area code By implementing these restrictions, the Voice Switching System enhances communication efficiency while maintaining control over dialing permissions for designated extensions.
The vendor will extract essential database information from the current Voice Switching System equipment, including Verizon 5ESS Centrex, Pinnacle Axis Telemanagement, and Digital Sound voicemail systems, to effectively populate their databases and systems This process involves identifying and retrieving specific data required from the existing systems, which is crucial for transitioning current services to the proposed solution The successful migration will ensure seamless integration and functionality within the new system.
Describe how the vendor will inventory existing services to determine replacements needed.
Describe the process to implement database changes to activate new trunks, nodes, or other major systems components that are for future “wired” or “capacity” needs.
Please describe in detail the capabilities of the switchboard console (console used by a directory information operator) Is the switchboard console PC based or DSS/BLF?
Switchboard systems can be categorized as web browser-based, off-the-shelf software solutions, or a blend of proprietary hardware and software The choice of system often depends on the specific needs of the organization, with each option offering unique advantages Typically, these systems require regular software and hardware upgrades to maintain optimal performance, with frequency varying based on the technology used and the demands of the business environment.
Switchboard attendants possess the capability to determine line status, allowing them to effectively manage incoming and outgoing calls Operators can identify the calling party's number both from within the system and externally through trunk lines, ensuring efficient communication and enhanced call handling This ability is crucial for maintaining seamless connectivity and providing prompt assistance to callers.
Can the switchboard console display what trunk group is ringing? Display name? Display location?
Describe the various peripheral devices available to switchboard operators such as phone sets, headsets, hands free sets, wireless devices, etc.
Describe how switchboard operators can access the database for MACs and E911 Describe the operator’s ability to forward emergency calls to the campus PSAP or other emergency location.
Describe the ability of the switchboard operator to request assistance from a supervisor or notify Police during a threatening phone call without the caller knowing the action is taking place.
Modem pooling can indeed be implemented within a switch, allowing for efficient resource utilization The maximum number of supported modem groups varies by system specifications, so it's essential to consult the manufacturer's guidelines Available queuing options include first call in, first call served; round-robin access; and first-to-last-member order The maximum number of calls that can be held in the queue and the maximum waiting time before service is provided are also critical factors to consider, often determined using the Erlang C table for accurate calculations.
The article addresses the availability of a fiber optic interface within the switching system, questioning whether it is integrated or requires additional equipment It also outlines the various types and modes of fiber supported by each device featuring a fiber interface.
Will the system provide access to the Internet, LAN and WAN? How? Speeds? Under what system or feature (VoIP, Unified Messaging, etc)
Does the system have a wireless interface for cellular phones, wireless data (802.11), or other wireless devices?
Is the system ISDN capable for both BRI and PRI interfaces?
Can incoming callers be prohibited from reaching outside trunk access? If so, how is this implemented? Can personnel with the appropriate authority override this feature?
Describe the various trunk interfaces available with the Voice Switching System to include switch, voice mail, unified messaging and E911.
Does the vendor have analog trunk interfaces for DID trunks? Do the interfaces support Dial Pulse, Ground Start, and DTMF?
The Voice Switching System possesses the capability to generate unique authorization codes for customers, ensuring that each code remains exclusive for the entire lifespan of the switch Additionally, it effectively monitors, tracks, and reports any unauthorized usage of these authorization codes and other security features, enhancing overall system security and integrity.
The security features of each system component include robust password protections, advanced security algorithms, and additional devices designed to thwart unauthorized access These measures ensure that sensitive information remains secure Furthermore, the system facilitates secure remote access to completed MACs, system changes, review reports, and other critical data, allowing authorized users to maintain oversight and control without compromising security.
What kind of alarm, intrusion or other security monitoring system exists for all components located in each building, room or area? Does the system monitor and support environmental elements?
In the event of a power failure, certain features of analog, digital, and VoIP instruments may be compromised, even when backup power is in place The extent of functionality loss can vary depending on the system's design and the effectiveness of the backup power solution Following a power outage, the restoration time for all features to become fully operational can also differ, influenced by the type of instrument and the recovery protocols in place Understanding these factors is crucial for ensuring uninterrupted communication and system reliability.
What effect does the power failure have on individual stations and their ability to access information located in a node in another building or area?
In the event of a commercial power failure, it is crucial to follow specific steps to restore the primary Voice Switching System components First, ensure that the power supply is stable and fully restored before proceeding Next, check all system connections and reboot the main server to initiate the recovery process Once the server is operational, verify that all critical components, such as routers and switches, are functioning correctly and reconnect any necessary network interfaces Finally, conduct a system test to confirm that voice services are fully operational and monitor the system for any irregularities to ensure optimal performance.
In the event of a power outage, all system features and functions must be restored within a maximum timeframe of [insert specific time here] Additionally, for distributed nodes or equipment situated at remote locations, restoration should be completed within [insert specific time here].
How many speed dial numbers are provided at each station (analog, digital, VoIP)? In the entire system?
What types of telephone conferencing equipment are compatible with the Voice Switching System for analog, digital, and VoIP ports or extensions?
V OICE M AIL 52
Can the system direct unanswered internal calls to the voice mailbox and can it direct unanswered external calls to another station (i.e., secretarial)?
What is the maximum number of stored greetings per mailbox?
What is the maximum number of customers (mailboxes)?
Describe the following parameters by class of service: a Maximum length of message b Maximum number of messages per subscriber c Retention time for messages
The voice mail system excels in integrating Interactive Voice Response (IVR) capabilities, allowing users to navigate through options seamlessly and enhancing customer interaction Additionally, it offers unified messaging features, consolidating voice mails, emails, and faxes into a single platform for streamlined communication This integration not only improves efficiency but also enhances user experience by providing easy access to all messages in one place.
How does the voice mail system integrate with Fax or Fax on demand?
Does the voice mail system tell the customer how many old and new messages are in a mailbox?
Does the system detect busy signal or no-answer and inform the caller and provide options to allow the call to be forwarded to an Auto Attendant or operator?
Can a caller bypass a customer’s greeting and leave a message?
Can a message be created for future delivery, e.g., 2 days later?
Will the mailbox provide time/date stamp for each message?
Will the voice mail system allow access from a remote location or via the PSTN? Is the access password or security protected?
Explain how the voice mail system implements off-site paging notification
Describe in detail the SMDR produced by the voice mail system to track called and calling party extensions.
Explain how the voice mail system prioritizes off-site paging notifications or emergency notifications. Explain the auto attendant functions and features of the voice mail system.
Explain the ability of the voice mail system to define and allow customers to set up group paging lists and modify features for each person on the list.
V O IP A RCHITECTURE 53
Describe the overall architecture of the system and how it integrates with the circuit switched PBX.
Provide a diagram that illustrates all of the major network components and their role and interactions with each other Include the PBX server, gateways and phones.
State the operating system on which the server software runs.
State how the VoIP system will integrate with the vendor’s proposed voice mail, unified messaging system, Call Accounting, Dialing Plan, and other components of the voice network.
V O IP P HONES 54
Describe the features and displays on each VoIP phone State any differences or additions that VoIP phones will have in comparison to the vendor’s equivalent digital phone.
Describe vendor “softphones,” their TAPI interface specifications, and any additional resources they require.
When evaluating the power requirements and physical characteristics of phones, it's essential to determine whether they are powered via in-line connections from the jack or require local electrical outlets for operation Each phone type has specific wiring and cabling needs, including the necessary jack and connector specifications Understanding these requirements ensures proper installation and functionality, optimizing performance for users.
High-quality conference phones, such as those comparable to Polycom models, are essential for effective communication in meeting rooms during conference calls These phones typically feature advanced audio technology for clear sound quality, multiple microphones for 360-degree pickup, and user-friendly interfaces for easy operation Additionally, switchboard operator and receptionist phones offer specialized features like call handling capabilities, customizable ringtones, and programmable keys for efficient management of incoming and outgoing calls.
List any third party suppliers of phones compatible with your system.
Describe how the vendor’s VoIP system supports analog phone devices such as single line phones, fax machines, and dial up modems.
Are all vendor proposed VoIP instruments ADA compliant and do they meet all national, state, and local codes? Please provide certification letter.
V O IP/PBX F UNCTIONALITY 54
Describe exactly how many servers are needed to support 500 VoIP phones and 8,500 analog ports at cutover, if required.
Describe how the Voice Switching System will scale up to 5,000 VoIP phones.
VoIP phone access is efficiently distributed and managed across multiple servers to ensure optimal performance When several servers are utilized, it is essential to implement a load balancing strategy to automatically distribute the phone connections among them, rather than relying on manual adjustments This automated balancing enhances reliability and scalability, allowing for seamless communication without overloading any single server.
Do you provide Automatic Route Selection/Least Cost Routing? Describe the capabilities and how it integrates with vendor’s traditional voice switching system.
How many classes of service do you provide for Toll Restriction?
Do you provide classes of service based upon PIN or authorization code number? Describe how these numbers are issued, traced, and their integration with the call accounting system.
Can you restrict calling to specific Area Codes and prefixes? If so, how is this done?
Can you restrict individual numbers from being called? If so, how is this done?
Do you provide differentiated ringing or theme ring for internal and external calls?
V O IP A CCESS TO PSTN 54
Describe the equipment necessary to provide digital access for sufficient inbound and outbound trunks to the PSTN to support 500 to 5,000 VoIP phones.
Integrating equipment with traditional PBX systems, VoIP servers, and phones involves careful consideration of compatibility and functionality When utilizing multiple gateway devices, limitations may arise in mapping them to PBX servers, such as potential restrictions on call routing and management capabilities Ensuring seamless integration requires understanding the specific configurations and protocols supported by both the PBX and the gateways, as well as addressing any bandwidth or latency issues that may affect performance.
Can multiple PBX servers equally share multiple gateways (routers)?
How does the PBX server decide to route a call to the PSTN when the IP path has failed?
V O IP I NTEGRATED M ESSAGING 55
Describe your Integrated messaging solution.
Diagram and explain what is necessary for the email client and server software to retrieve voice mail messages
Indicate the voice mail systems with which this architecture is compatible
List the email systems that are compatible based upon client and server requirements.
Indicate what is used to populate the subject lines of the email system with meaningful information from the voice mail system.
V O IP P ERFORMANCE 55
Describe how you will provide the highest levels of reliability and uptime
Describe your predicted or actual availability rate Please list source and number of customers supported plus length of time from which data was derived.
V O IP N ETWORK D ESIGN G UIDELINES 55
A VoIP data call typically requires more processor overhead than a traditional voice call due to the additional processing needed for encoding and decoding audio data This increased demand on system resources is influenced by the codec used in the VoIP phone or other equipment, as different codecs have varying levels of complexity and efficiency Consequently, the overall resource usage can vary significantly based on the chosen codec and the specific hardware capabilities of the devices involved.
How much processor overhead and resources are required for a VoIP call?
The peak bandwidth required for each phone call between a phone and a PBX server varies depending on several factors, including the type of phone instrument used, the call's destination, and its duration Understanding these variables is crucial for optimizing network performance and ensuring seamless communication.
Provide the amount of peak bandwidth needed per call between the PBX server and the gateway supporting the trunk lines.
The integration of voice services within networks relies on various standards supported by phones, PBX systems, gateways, and other end nodes to ensure optimal performance and priority levels Key Quality of Service (QoS) standards such as 802.1p, DiffServ, and RSVP play a crucial role in managing network traffic For instance, 802.1p provides traffic prioritization through VLAN tagging, while DiffServ enables differentiated treatment of data packets based on their importance Additionally, RSVP facilitates the reservation of resources across the network, ensuring that voice communications receive the necessary bandwidth and low latency required for high-quality service Together, these components work cohesively to enhance the delivery of voice services, maintaining clarity and reliability from end to end.
Indicate any other networking services that must be implemented, such as DHCP, DNS, etc., to support the system and the options that must be activated.
V O IP C ALL A CCOUNTING F EATURES 55
Do you provide SMDR (Station Message Detail Recording) for VoIP calls? If yes, describe the options for handling the output of the data.
Can you provide busy studies on outbound trunk groups? If yes, describe the feature that makes this possible.
Can you provide busy studies on incoming trunk groups? If yes, describe the feature that makes this possible.
Can you provide usage reports based upon PIN or authorization code numbers? If so, describe the reports.
Discuss other reporting features provided by you or a third party.
Which of the above reports are accessible via a web browser?
Can the VoIP System integrate with the Pinnacle Axis Call Accounting system?
V O IP V OICE M AIL I NTEGRATION 56
List the voice mail vendors that you are capable of supporting, and the minimum requirements for the support.
State if the vendor manufacturers a voice mail product that was designed to specifically integrate with the VoIP network.
The voice mail product integrated with the proposed VoIP system offers robust message storage capacity, allowing users to save numerous messages without hassle Each mailbox supports messages of up to three minutes in length, ensuring ample time for communication Key features include personalized greetings, message forwarding, and the ability to organize messages by priority Additionally, users benefit from remote access to their mailboxes and notification alerts for new messages, enhancing overall user experience and efficiency.
Does the vendor’s VoIP voice mail product provide auto attendant, ACD and IVR capacity?
Does the vendor’s VoIP voice mail product support analog single line phone stutter tone or other notification?
V O IP E911 56
Describe the E911 systems that will support the VoIP server/gateway and how this E911 system provides ANI and ALI information to the campus PSAP.
Describe how the E911 database will integrate with vendor provided traditional voice switching equipment.
Is the vendor’s current E911 system deployed and currently providing E911 service to customers? If so, where?
Explain how the vendor’s E911 system will track IP addresses and location in the event the instrument is allowed to be mobile.
Explain how the vendor’s E911 system will integrate and track wireless data “softphone.”
V O IP API 56
The supported APIs include a variety of integrations that enhance functionality and user experience These APIs facilitate the development of third-party products, fostering innovation and expanding the ecosystem Additionally, strategic partnerships formed through API support pave the way for future collaborations, driving ongoing advancements in third-party development.
V O IP S TANDARDS 57
Describe the standards that you are supporting that will provide interoperability among vendors for components of a VoIP PBX solution.
Describe the standards that the vendor’s VoIP PBX and VoIP phones support.
U NIFIED M ESSAGING 57
Describe the unified messaging system in detail, including the types of messages supported such as voice mail, fax, email, cell phone and pages.
Describe the requirements for the server platform and its capacity to store messages in total amounts per type of message.
Describe the storage capability of the system per customer or mailbox.
Describe the ability of the unified message system to interface with various email applications such as
Eudora Pro, MS Exchange, Netscape Messenger and other common email products.
Describe the customer appearance that will be provided for each unified message system customer.
Describe the typical training required for customers, switch/network administrators and other personnel required to maintain the unified messaging system.
A unified message retrieval application can effectively integrate and present various message types, including voice, fax, email, pages, and cell phone calls For instance, customers can call into the system using a PSTN phone to access their voicemail while simultaneously receiving a comprehensive list of all stored emails, phone calls, and pages.
Describe the system’s ability to maintain and display or read attachments and other features for each message type.
Describe the system’s ability to forward messages to another mailbox or number.
Describe the system’s ability to dial another number from within the unified messaging system.
Describe the system’s ability to capture and redial the party that left the message both from voice mail and email.
Describe the greetings provided for ring no answer or email return notification for each type of message.
Describe the system’s ability to read an email note over voice mail or to forward a voice mail to another email address.
Describe the system’s ability to support analog, digital, and VoIP instruments.
Describe the system’s ability to perform receipt notification and auto reply.
Describe the system’s ability to time/date stamp each message and provide the number of messages that have been answered, saved and deleted.
Describe the system’s ability to maintain a personal address book and its access via voice mail.
Describe all short cut keys and prompts that bypass a feature.
M AINTENANCE 58
The repair levels for each component of the Voice Switching System vary, encompassing factory repairs, on-site servicing, and customer-provided solutions Key components include the Switch, which may require specialized factory repairs; Voice Mail and Unified Messaging systems that can often be serviced on-site; and VoIP components that may necessitate customer involvement for troubleshooting Additionally, Network Management can be handled through a combination of on-site support and factory-level expertise, ensuring optimal performance and reliability across the system.
Describe the typical on site spare parts requirement for each voice-switching component (Switch, Voice Mail, Unified Messaging, VoIP, and Network Management).
Describe the tools required to perform maintenance on all Voice Switching System components. (Switch, Voice Mail, Unified Messaging, VoIP, and Network Management).
Describe the test equipment required to perform maintenance on all Voice Switching System components (Switch, Voice Mail, Unified Messaging, VoIP, and Network Management).
Certain components of the Voice Switching System, including Switch, Voice Mail, Unified Messaging, VoIP, and Network Management, may necessitate contracts or factory repairs Commonly, these components require vendor support for maintenance and repairs, with typical turnaround times varying based on the specific component and the nature of the issue.
Describe the capabilities of the manufacturer’s Maintenance Center to perform remote monitoring of the system you are proposing to the University.
Is the manufacturer’s Maintenance Center the same facility and the same functionality as the Proposer's Network Operations Center (NOC)?
Is the Proposer's NOC owned and operated by the Proposer, or does the Proposer outsource the NOC function to the manufacturer of the VSS?
Does the Maintenance Center only respond to alarms or does the Maintenance Center interrogate the system daily, running a routiner on lines and trunks, and checking trouble logs?
What capabilities for self-diagnostics and routines on lines and trunks are inherent in the system you are proposing to the University?
The Maintenance Center is located at [insert location], and can be reached at [insert telephone number] Our hours of operation are [insert hours] We serve a total of [insert number] systems and [insert total number] stations from this office, which is [insert distance] miles away from the University The team consists of [insert number] maintenance personnel, with [insert person in charge] overseeing operations.
Describe minimum staffing levels of your Maintenance Center when technicians are on vacation and/or at training.
Describe how maintenance contract customers are treated differently than time and material customers.
Indicate your method of monitoring for system failures.
List ongoing education for your Maintenance Center technicians.
List experience of your Maintenance Center technicians with voice, data and fiber optics, especially as it relates to newer technologies.
Provide an organizational flow chart of your Maintenance Center describing the escalation procedures that the University could follow for major system failures
Prove a list of installations that you presently support in California with system types similar to the system you are proposing to the University.
T RAINING 59
University employees must complete Voice Switching System training classes to become certified in basic and intermediate operation and maintenance of all vendor-provided equipment, including Switch, Voice Mail, Unified Messaging, and Network Management The training sessions typically last several days and are scheduled throughout the year at designated campus locations Participants will receive certification upon successful completion of the training, ensuring they meet the required competency levels for effective equipment management.
Describe the vendor provided training available for University to maintain VoIP instruments.
Explain the vendor provided training available for switchboard operators and PSAP dispatchers to use attendant and switchboard consoles.
Describe the vendor provided training provided for executive management and other VIPs.
Describe all pre-cutover training provided to the University Include a training schedule.
Describe cutover training available including help desk, on site personnel, etc.
Describe all post-cutover training and subsequent in-service training Include any cost to the University for one-year after switch cutover.
W ARRANTIES 59
Describe equipment warranty, including any exclusion.
Describe labor warranty after the date in the Notice of Final Acceptance.
Describe the responsibilities that the University will assume during the warranty period.
Describe the warranty of software licenses.
O THER Q UESTIONS 59
What new technology does your company plan to utilize in the near future that would be an advantage to the University?
C OMPANY I NFORMATION 60
To effectively establish your company’s qualifications for this project, provide a comprehensive company description, including the number of years in business and your D&B rating Highlight the number of employees and present your financial history, particularly the most recent full year’s financial statement Emphasize information that showcases your organization’s strength and capability to undertake the project, along with details about your relationship with the manufacturer of the proposed system and ancillary products Additionally, specify the number of full-time service personnel (excluding installers) in Southern California who are trained on the proposed equipment, as well as the number of full-time technicians at your in-house repair center trained on the same equipment Finally, include the number of system training/coordinator specialists trained on the proposed equipment in Southern California.
R EFERENCES 60
For this project, we present details on three comparable installations and maintenance systems at higher-level academic institutions Each entry includes the company or institution name, address, contact person's name, and telephone number Additionally, we provide the date of system installation, the size of the installation, and a brief description of each system.
V ENDOR P ERSONNEL R EQUIREMENTS 60
The University maintains the right to review the credentials of all vendor employees and may reject those deemed unacceptable Vendors must submit waivers for personnel requirements alongside their proposals, where only equivalent work experience or education will be considered All vendors are required to provide the credentials of their Project Manager and Voice Switch Engineer with the proposal and must present credentials for all other employees before commencing work Technicians or workers with less than six months of experience with the vendor or in the relevant field are prohibited from working unsupervised.
The Project Manager must possess a minimum of seven years of experience with the proposed voice-switching system and equipment, having successfully led at least two comparable projects A Bachelor of Science degree in a technical field or a valid State of California license is required This individual will have the authority to approve contract change orders and serve as the sole point of contact for the University regarding all project-related matters Additionally, the Project Manager must have been employed by the vendor company for at least 90 days prior to the project's commencement and will be required to be present on-site during normal working hours, from Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM, throughout the project's duration.
Give name of Project Manager
List references of previous projects, of similar size and scope, which the Project Manager has supervised.
List PE or Contractor license number.
A Voice Switch Engineer must hold a degree from the vendor's advanced certification training for relevant voice switching equipment The candidate should have a minimum of one year of employment with the vendor and at least five years of experience in the installation, programming, and maintenance of voice switching systems The engineer is required to be present at the University during regular working hours, Monday to Friday, from 8 AM to 5 PM, while the voice switch equipment is being installed and configured.
Voice Switch Technicians must possess a degree from the vendor’s certification training for relevant voice switching equipment They are required to have a minimum of six months of employment with the vendor’s company and at least three years of experience in the installation, programming, and maintenance of voice-switching systems These technicians will be present at the University and available on-site as needed.
A Voice Mail Engineer must possess a degree from the vendor's advanced certification training on voice mail systems and equipment, along with at least one year of employment with the vendor and a minimum of five years of experience in installing, programming, and maintaining voice mail equipment This professional will be present at the University during standard working hours, from 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday, for the installation and configuration of the voice mail system.
Voice Mail Technicians must possess a graduate certification from the vendor's training program on voice mail systems and equipment They are required to have a minimum of six months of employment with the vendor's company and at least three years of experience in the installation, programming, and maintenance of voice mail equipment Technicians will be available on-site at the University as needed.
The Outside Plant Supervisor must hold a BICSI certification as a Registered Communications Distribution Designer (RCDD) or an equivalent certification from a recognized telecommunications organization Candidates should have at least one year of employment with the vendor's company and a minimum of five years of experience in the installation, programming, and maintenance of outside cable plant systems and equipment This role requires the supervisor to be present at the University during normal working hours, from Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM, while any outside plant cable, system, or equipment is being installed or configured.
The Inside Plant Supervisor must be a BICSI certified Registered Communications Distribution Designer (RCDD) or hold an equivalent certification from a recognized telecommunications organization Candidates should have a minimum of one year of employment with the vendor's company and at least five years of experience in the installation, programming, and maintenance of outside cable plant systems and equipment The supervisor will be present on-site at the University during regular working hours, Monday to Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM, overseeing the installation and configuration of inside plant cables, systems, or equipment.
A Unified Messaging Engineer must possess a graduate certification from the vendor's advanced training program on unified messaging systems and related computer and networking components Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of one year of employment with the vendor and at least five years of experience in installing, programming, and maintaining unified messaging equipment This engineer will be present on-site at the University during regular working hours, Monday through Friday, from 8 AM to 5 PM, while the unified messaging equipment is being installed and configured.
A Unified Messaging Technician must possess a graduate certification from the vendor's training program focused on unified messaging systems and associated computer and networking components Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of six months of employment with the vendor's company and at least three years of experience in the installation, programming, and maintenance of unified messaging equipment These technicians will be present on-site at the University as needed.
A VoIP/IP Telephony Engineer must hold an advanced certification from the relevant vendor or manufacturer, demonstrating expertise in VoIP systems and related networking components Candidates should possess a minimum of one year of employment with the vendor and have at least five years of experience in the installation, programming, and maintenance of networking equipment.
Engineer will be at the University and on site during normal working hours, Monday – Friday, 8AM to 5
PM, during the time frame that the VoIP equipment, if any, is being installed and configured.
VoIP Technicians must hold a certification from the vendor's training program on VoIP systems and related networking components Candidates should have at least six months of employment with the vendor and a minimum of three years of experience in the installation, programming, and maintenance of networking equipment These technicians will be available at the university and on-site as needed.
The AC/DC Power System Supervisor must possess a graduate certification from the AC/DC Power vendor, specifically related to the HVAC system's make and model This supervisor will be present at the University and on-site during regular business hours, from Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM, while any installation or configuration of AC/DC Power System cables, systems, or equipment is taking place.
The HVAC Supervisor must possess a degree from the advanced certification training provided by the HVAC vendor specific to the make and model of the HVAC system This supervisor will be present at the University and on-site during regular working hours, from Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM, overseeing the installation and configuration of any HVAC cables, systems, or equipment.
Fire suppression system installers must hold a certification from the specific vendor for the make and model of the fire suppression system being used Additionally, a qualified fire suppression system supervisor will be present at the University and on-site during regular working hours, which are Monday to Friday from 8 AM.
5 PM, during the time frame that any Fire Suppression cable, system, or equipment is being installed and/or configured.
COST SHEET
Proposers must submit comprehensive pricing details for their proposed systems, encompassing all equipment, software, documentation, labor, training, and ongoing maintenance/support costs It is essential to include the costs outlined in section 8.1, which specifies common expenses applicable to any type of VSS proposed Additionally, if proposing a contracted or tariffed service such as Centrex, include the costs requested in section 8.1; for University-acquired PBX proposals, provide the costs requested in section 8.2.
C OMMON C OSTS , R EGARDLESS OF T YPE OF VSS P ROPOSED 63
Provide the costs requested in this section regardless of the type of VSS (tariffed/contracted Centrex service or PBX) being proposed
Cost for any required rearrangements to the existing Outside Cable Plant (including conduit, cable and labor):
Cost for modifications to the existing Main Distribution Frame (MDF) or construction of a new MDF:
Cost for connection of the VSS to the MDF:
Cost for providing training to the end-customers of the telephone service:
Cost for providing Communications Services' staff with training on system administration (including Moves, Adds and Changes):
If you propose using digital telephone station instruments, what is your cost of the following instruments?
$ _ each; $ _in quantity orders of _
8.1.1.2 Multi-line instrument with a minimum of 4 configurable keys (for lines or features):
$ _ each; $ _in quantity orders of _
8.1.1.3 Multi-line instrument with a minimum of 12 configurable keys (for lines or features):
$ _ each; $ _in quantity orders of _
Cost to augment the system to support 500 lines of VoIP?
Cost of your VoIP instruments:
$ _ each; $ _in quantity orders of _
Cost of a Voice Mail and Unified Messaging System as defined in the Technical Requirements section 6?
The cost for maintaining the Voice Mail and Unified Messaging System in the second year after final system acceptance encompasses all associated parts and labor expenses.
Cost of air conditioning, heating and ventilation (HVAC) support systems for the new equipment, if and only if the existing systems are inadequate:
The expenses associated with the interim power serving arrangement and the transition of the VSS from this temporary setup to the final power system will be incurred once Verizon's Centrex equipment is deactivated, as outlined in Section 5.28 of the DC Power System.
Cost of a fire suppression system sufficient to extinguish a fire for all equipment located in the Public Safety Building switch room, if and only if the existing systems are inadequate:
Cost of integration of the proposed system with the University’s existing Pinnacle Axis Telemanagement system:
C ONTRACTED OR T ARIFFED S ERVICE ( E G , C ENTREX ) COSTS 65
Only include cost information in this section if you are proposing contracted or tariffed telephone services, such as Centrex If your proposal involves a PBX, please omit this section and provide the relevant cost details in the next section.
The recurring prices in the following table must be fixed for a seven (7) year contract term.
What is your basic telephone line rate, including FCC-mandated Interstate Access Charge?
What other Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) taxes and surcharges are applicable to the basic telephone line rate?
Tax or Surcharge: Current rate:
Tax or Surcharge: Current rate:
Tax or Surcharge: Current rate:
What is your Service Order charge?
What is your installation charge for a new line?
What are your charges for an Authorization Code?
What Feature Packages do you offer (describe the features in each available package) and what are the monthly charges for each package?
Charge: $ _ per line per month.
Charge: $ _ per line per month.
Charge: $ _ per line per month.
What are your charges for interconnection of your service to a University acquired voice server (e.g., cost of SMDI interface, call waiting indication and cancel call waiting)?
One-time installation charge: $ _ per month.
What are your charges for providing real-time call accounting data (CDR, MDR, SMDR) to the University in computer-readable format?
What are your charges for a 2B ISDN Basic Rate Interface circuit?
What are your charges for an ISDN Primary Rate Interface circuit?
U NIVERSITY - ACQUIRED PBX COSTS 67
If you are proposing the University's acquisition of a PBX, please provide the requested cost information in this section However, if you are offering contracted or tariffed services like Centrex, skip this section and refer to the cost information in the previous section Additionally, do not include any costs from Section 8.1, such as the Voice Mail system costs, in your response.
What is the cost for a VSS with the Capacity, Wired, Equipped and Working@Cut quantities as defined in the Technical Specifications sections 5.11 (Equipment Quantity Requirements) and 5.28 (Trunking Requirements)?
The cost for maintaining all VSS components, as outlined in the Technical Specifications sections 5.24 (Maintenance Guarantee) and 5.34 (Response Times), along with Proposer Questions section 6.18 (Maintenance), includes all necessary parts and labor for the second year after the system's final acceptance, which follows the one-year warranty period.
The cost to upgrade the initial system from the Equipped configuration to the Wired configuration, as outlined in the Technical Specifications sections 5.11 (Equipment Quantity Requirements) and 5.28 (Trunking Requirements), involves assessing the number of additional working stations and trunks needed for optimal performance.
At the end of the second year after the system's Final Acceptance, what is the increase in maintenance charges when transitioning from the Equipped configuration to the Wired configuration?
The cost of expanding the system from a Wired configuration to the specified number of working stations and trunks in the Capacity configuration is outlined in the Technical Specifications, specifically in sections 5.11 (Equipment Quantity Requirements) and 5.28 (Trunking Requirements).
At the end of the fourth year following the system's Final Acceptance, the increase in maintenance charges resulting from the transition from a Wired configuration to a Capacity configuration must be assessed This evaluation is crucial for understanding the financial implications of expanding the system and ensuring that budgetary considerations align with the enhanced capabilities of the new configuration.
What is the cost for the Maintenance Training as defined in the Technical Specifications section 5.35.2?