Why can't I direct dial security booths?

Prior to our recent telephone upgrades, each security booth had a dedicated telephone line but there were drawbacks:

• It was not possible to transfer calls between the different locations
• The lines would often be busy, not allowing callers to get through

To resolve these issues we implemented a new telephone system however a decision was taken to use analog circuits, rather than digital. The rationale behind this decision is to allow security to make and receive calls in the event of a major power outage, for instance during a hurricane.

Phone services using the new digital circuits, such as that used by the administration office, do allow calls to be made direct to users extensions. However, in the event of a major power outage the system doesn't function.

By using a phone system with analog circuits, it can be disconnected and a regular hard wired telephone installed in the event of a system or power failure. We believe this to be a critical requirement for our security services.

The auto attendant works around the problem of not being able to direct dial a la digital phone circuits by providing a menu. For those familiar with the menu options, there is no need to wait for the entire message to play before selecting the option. Further, for emergencies press zero at any time and the call will be directed to manned security post.

There is one exception, if dialing 327-8155 the system is programmed to route the call to the extension at the canal security booth. However, if that line is busy it will redirect to the auto-attendant.