Case Study: Clark Atlanta University achieves 50% support cost reduction and modernized campus unified communications with Black Box Network Services

Clark Atlanta University - Customer Case Study

Clark Atlanta University, a historic HBCU, faced an aging, inflexible telecommunications system that failed during a 2010 surge in parent inquiries and could not support modern VoIP, SMS or integrated messaging needs within budget constraints. To address this, CAU engaged Black Box Network Services to advise on and implement a campus‑wide IP unified communications upgrade based on Siemens Enterprise Communications’ OpenScape Voice, OpenScape Contact Center and the OpenScape UC Server.

Black Box Network Services implemented the Siemens OpenScape solution in phases, allowing CAU to migrate to IP phones while keeping some analog lines during transition. The deployment delivered immediate benefits — integrated IP phone, voice messaging and SMS, enhanced call‑center features and mobile caller ID — and cut ongoing support costs by about 50%, reduced call wait times, improved user satisfaction, and provided a scalable platform for future communications needs.

Clark Atlanta University

Carlton Brown

President, Clark Atlanta University