The Unified Communications (UC) project is underway. Over the next 18 months, the project will gradually replace all existing analog phones at UWM with new Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone numbers. An FAQ about the project can be found here.

Since the project will come to your department soon, L&S IT wants to make sure you have the appropriate software for UC. Your new VoIP phone number will require using Skype for Business. Instructions for getting Skype for Business can be found below.

Windows computers

If you have Microsoft Office 2016 on your computer, good news–you already have Skype for Business!

However, if your computer has Office version 2007, 2010, or 2013, it’s time to upgrade. Please use the instructions below to upgrade to Office 2016.

To install Office 2016, follow the instructions in this guide: Use Software Center to install an application on Windows. You can select the application named Microsoft Office 365 ProPlus – Semi-annual Channel from the tab “Available Software”

If you encounter any problems with the instructions, please contact L&S IT through our help form.

MacOS computers

Unlike in Windows, Office 2016 for Mac does not include Skype for Business by default. Mac users will need to install Skype for Business using the Self Service application.

You can do so by following the instructions in this guide: Use Self Service to install an application on MacOS. Select L&S-Skype For Business from the category “Office Productivity.”

If you do not already have Office 2016 installed, you can use Self Service to upgrade.

Note: you must have MacOS version 10.11 “El Capitan” or newer to use Skype for Business. Older versions of MacOS are not compatible. We strongly recommend updating your Mac as soon as possible–please contact us if you need help!

If you encounter any problems with the instructions, please contact L&S IT through our help form.