With a background in telecom technology and extensive experience in managing PBX systems, Darin Ward brings expertise in navigating the challenges of the industry. From discussing security awareness to highlighting the potential benefits of telecom advancements, Darin offers valuable insights into optimizing operations and leveraging modern solutions for improved efficiency.
In this episode, Darin Ward discusses how organizations can modernize aging telecommunications infrastructure to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Transitioning to cloud-based systems introduces challenges related to connectivity, redundancy and lost features. The conversation highlights strategies for balancing the transitions risks and rewards when modernizing telecommunications systems.
President Nixon’s Phone Call to the Moon [00:03:13] Discussion on the technology used to make a phone call from President Nixon to the men on the moon during the moon landing.
Hacking Old PBX Systems [00:08:00] Discussion on the ease of hacking old PBX systems, including a story of a blind man who made a career out of hacking phone systems.
Telecom Nightmare [00:17:59] Discussion about a telecom nightmare and the filming location of the “Children of the Corn” movie.
Voiceover PI [00:23:25] Discussion about the overhyping of telecom products, specifically “voiceover pi” and the internet not being built for QoS.
Childhood and Early Career [00:28:40] Guest’s childhood and early career, including bailing hay, owning a Commodore VIC 20, and joining the Navy.
Managing PBX Systems [00:33:34] Discussion of the challenges of managing PBX systems, including the variety of systems in use and the difficulty of managing bills and changes.
Centralization and Ecosystems [00:35:21] Discussion on the terminology of centralization and the importance of knowing an organization’s ecosystem.
Reducing Telecom Budget [00:44:35] Discussion on reducing the telecom budget by 66% and identifying other opportunities.
Benefits of Cloud-Based Solutions [00:48:16] Identifying unexpected benefits of migrating infrastructure to cloud-based solutions.
RFPS and their flexibility [00:51:31] Phil discuss the usefulness and limitations of RFPS, and whether they should be more flexible to allow for better vendor selection.
IT support as a cost center [00:53:55] Phil discusses the role of IT support as a cost center, and how it can still contribute to the company’s bottom line through digital transformation.
Leadership Articles / Emerging Topics / Nagging Issues
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