Extension change from 2 to 3 digits 1

[mfoig]

We have outgrown our 2 digit extensions (10-69)on our Merlin Magix 3.0/MM3.0, I will be changing everyone over to 1 + their original 2 digits, can anyone recomend what is the best process.

I was thinking to just add on the automated attendent "please dial 1 + your parties 2 digit extension" and then change everyones voice mail over adding the 1, so they would have 2 voice mails for awhile...is that the best way?

 

[tdaugirdas]

Why don't you have them "bite the bullet" and just do the conversion. My suggestion would be - when everyone has left for the day. Use system renumber "setup space" which renumbers all extensions starting with 7100 and adjuncts starting at 7300. You can then use single extension or block of extensions (as appropriate) to convert all extensions to whatever specific 3-digit ones you want for each person. Don't forget that your voicemail ports will be renumbered as well. You may need to change any extension number pointed to the AA's.

The "setup space" option gives you the greatest flexibility in renumbering - especially if they want to keep the last 2-digits of their old extension number. You may also need to change/add some of the selector codes in voice mail so that outside callers can dial an extension directly.

Tom Daugirdas,
President
STCG, Inc.
stcg.com

 

[mfoig]

What is the advantage of giving the 4 digit extensions 7+3 instead of 3 digit extensions using setup space? (we are about 60 people)

 

[tdaugirdas]

The setup space option - just gives you maximum control for changing extension numbers to what you want. If you use the default 3-digit option - the extensions will start with 100 and go up from there in sequence - which you may not want. When all of the extensions are renumbered with set up space - you then use system renumber, extensions to set each one to exactly what you want. So, for example lets say your operator will be ext 110 - so change 7100 to 110. Lets' say you have a department that wants extensions 250 thru 275 - so change 7101-7126 or any other range to 250-275, and so on. That's what I mean by flexibility. If you use the 3-digit default, extensions start at 100, not 110 - so you will be 10 digits off from your 2-digit plan - which means a lot of work to renumber them to what you want. For example if you wanted to make 100 110 - you would first have to renumber 110 to something else - or it is not available, etc.

Tom Daugirdas,
President
STCG, Inc.
stcg.com

 

[TouchToneTommy]

When you do this, remember that in the Merlin Messaging there is a setting for Maximum Extension Length, which would be currently set to 2, you will need to change it to 3.

Don't forget to change Call Answer Service Operator and the General Mailbox Owners.

Get everyone to retrieve their messages before the change over, so you can delete their old mailboxes and create new ones.

Re-record your auto attendant recording to say something like "Please listen carefully, as our extension numbers have changed. If you know your party's THREE digit extension number, please enter it now. If you know your party's TWO digit extension number, enter ONE and then the 2 digit number...." Keep that recording for a month or so, then go back to a more normal recording.