The University of Cambridge wanted a provider that would integrate seamlessly with its existing IP network, offer a feature-rich messaging/ call handling solution, and support a genuinely scalable approach to application development.

After looking at all the available options, the university selected C3’s SIP-enabled Apcentia platform to integrate with its existing Cisco CallManager solution, which spans the university’s 18,000 telephone extensions (one of the largest higher education Cisco sites in the world).

Apcentia enables the university to automate its entire call handling and scripting functions whilst complementary applications – from simple voice messaging to complex scripted applications – run alongside. Using a simple interface and C3’s powerful development language, call flows can be easily designed, managed and processed.

The university is able to reduce development costs by building its own complementary applications on the platform. From complex database integrated applications through to standard informationbased service, the university is saving time and money whilst futureproofing its investment.

“We needed a supplier who would work with us to understand our specific requirements and give us a solution that was customised to fit,” says Gordon Ross, Head of Telecoms at the University of Cambridge.

“C3 delivers the technology we want, when we need it .Their open platform and flexible technology has enabled us to add value with bespoke integration and maximise our network with leading-edge applications.”

Since the initial deployment, the University of Cambridge has upgraded the Apcentia platform by adding C3’s complementary Network Conferencing application, extending the life of their original investment and creating an in-house network platform that provides flexible voice conferencing facilities for a single, fixed fee.

“With Network Conferencing we can provide our users with a much requested service, whilst leveraging our existing Apcentia platform. The comprehensive API suite allows us to integrate the system into our existing user and administration tools, so minimising the learning curve,” explains Gordon.

With no subscription or data storage charges and secure localised call recording, Network Conferencing supports a limitless number of conferences, supporting up to 64 active participants per conference.

Easily administered and managed through an intuitive web interface that supports multiple levels of access, the platform supports pre-booked, recurrent and on-demand conferences, which can be recorded for later review, if required.