Teams Phones

We're excited to announce that, this Fall, San Rafael will be transitioning to a unified phone system that integrates with Microsoft Teams. This migration is a significant step towards enhancing our communication capabilities and ensuring seamless collaboration across the organization.

Why are we making this change?

Microsoft Teams Phone offers a range of benefits that will improve our day-to-day operations, including:

• Integrated Communication: Combine calling, meetings, and messaging in one platform.
• Enhanced Features: Access advanced calling features like voicemail transcription, call queues, improved directory search, and auto-attendants.
• Increased Flexibility: Make and receive calls on any device, anywhere, and control your privacy and quiet time.
• Improved Collaboration: Easily collaborate with colleagues and external partners through a unified communication system.
• Current Phones End-of-Life: Our ShoreTel system is no longer supported by the manufacturer, has limited functionality, and is not integrated with our staff directory.

What does this mean for you?

• Department Coordination: Starting next week, we will be reaching out and working with representatives from each Department to ensure that phone lines and services meet the needs of our users.
• Soft phones and handsets: Everyone who needs a phone line will get one, but not everyone will need a handset phone. We will work with Departments to prioritize users and workstations that require handsets and provide headsets and mobile integration for staff who don’t require handsets.
• Transition Timeline: We are currently aiming to move to the system in mid-October depending on our work with Departments.
• Training and Support: To help you get acquainted with the new system, we will be offering training sessions. Additionally, comprehensive resources and support will be available on our website.  Feel free to get a jump start on training and log into the ClipTraining portal (click ‘Microsoft 365 login’ button > Microsoft Teams > Teams Calling).
• Communication: Regular updates will be provided via email and our website to keep you informed about the transition progress and any actions required from you.

We are excited about the opportunities that Microsoft Teams Phone will bring to our organization and are committed to making this transition with minimal disruption to City services.

If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Xantrion support team at 510.272.4701.

Thank you for your attention and support as we embark on this important upgrade.