BT and Cisco have landed a deal to provide VoIP connectivity to Cambridge University users, replacing their current telephone system which provides communications across 200 locations.

The move is motivated by the usual cost-reduction of using standard IP kit, though the university angle allows everyone involved to talk about revolutionising education. Cisco is particularly proud that their software will "ensure the University remains a globally-focused, student-centric institution well into the future."

BT, meanwhile, breathlessly expounds: "Sharing information more easily will improve the quality of education and research, with students and academics using instant messaging, voice emails, streaming video and much more to share ideas in real time, from anywhere in the world."

The project is expected to take 18 months to implement, and will be managed by long-term IT partners of the University PTS Consulting who are the ones claiming 17,000 users for the 20,000 handsets BT is planning to deploy.

While revolutionising communications across the university is all very well, saving a few quid to pay for tutors would be even more appreciated - then students might have someone to call up on the newfangled VoIP service. ®

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