Nortel will replace existing phones systems in nearly 1,600 field offices, including a 55,000-agent contact center, with unified messaging and interactive voice response capabilities. It will also provide security capabilities to protect citizen information and support for disabled users in compliance with US law.
The government agency said it was upgrading its network to better handle the expected influx of new users, including retiring, largely Internet-savvy baby boomers.
Having a converged voice and data network will enable the agency to offer new services, consolidate monthly recurring network service costs and reduce operating and maintenance spend, Nortel said. It also will provide the backbone to support future IP-based applications and services.
Nortel Government Solutions will sell VoIP hardware, software, integration and deployment services to the agency. The deal includes network operation services, user support and training.
The Nortel Government Solutions team includes General Dynamics, Black Box Network Services, Shared Technologies, AT&T, York Telecom, High Wire Networks, NetIQ and Pal-Tech.
Nortel already is selling VoIP networking gear to the US Air Force and Department of Defense.
