Faculty, Staff, and Administrative Personnel Telecommunications Policies...

The University of St. Thomas recognizes the need for its employees to have the necessary tools to perform their jobs well. With this need in mind, we have installed a modern, digital telecommunications system. Our intention is to make this system easy and readily available; at the same time, we need to ensure its correct and efficient use.

Because of telecommunications fraud and abuse by people external to the university, guidelines have been established for the use of the telecommunication system. The policies and procedures are in place to provide employees with the services they need, while safeguarding valuable university resources. Additionally, the guidelines established here offer a means by which employees can utilize the telecommunications facilities for personal use (not related to the business of the university) and reimburse St. Thomas.

Long Distance Use

Employees whose jobs require dialing long distance will need to obtain an authorization code from the Telecommunications Office. In order to receive an authorization code, an employee must complete a telephone use training session. Once training has been completed, the individual will receive an authorization code that will allow dialing throughout the world. This authorization code is sensitive and proprietary information. The employee requesting the code is responsible for its safety and security, and must immediately report its loss or theft to Telecommunications.

There are some international areas prohibited from UST's long distance network; that is, they may not be dialed from UST. If you have a particular need to dial a prohibited area, you may call the Telecommunications Office to make special arrangements.

The university shall be reimbursed for any personal long distance calls (i. e., calls not related to the business of the university) made via an authorization code. Payment may be made at the Business Office on either campus. Be certain to include notation of phone payment and the account number of the department to receive proper credit. Your department budget will reflect the receipt of payment

Billing Methods

The University of St. Thomas does not allow third party billing from its premises; this means that you cannot call the operator and bill a long distance call to your home. Additionally, we no longer accept collect calls to any university lines. Such polices were developed to protect the university from the fraudulent use of our facilities. 

Use of personal calling cards is acceptable, and the switchboard operators will assist you in placing these types calls.
 

Incoming 800 Service

The University of St. Thomas has an incoming "toll free" 800 number. The university pays a per-minute charge for this line, as with any other long distance service. The intent of this number is to provide a service to potential students. It is not to be use for personal reasons. Student in residence halls cannot receive calls via this number. The voicemail system is not be accessible via the 800 number.

Credit Cards

Employees who travel frequently for the University of St. Thomas (i.e., six or more times per academic year) may need a calling card. These cards can be obtained from the Telecommunication Office. Employees who travel infrequently for the university should pay any work-related long distance charges, and submit copies of the statements with a request for reimbursement. 

Card information is sensitive and proprietary and should be guarded. Theft or loss of a card must be reported immediately to Telecommunications. Any non-business related charges should be reimbursed the university by the card holder.

Call Accounting Reports

Each month, your department receives a billing statement, or call accounting report, via email. Individuals should look over reports pertaining to their authorization code, extension, calling card and/or voice mail box.  Any charges for personal calls must be reimbursed to the university. Any unaccounted usage should be reported to Telecommunication for investigation.