Definitions
Collaboration Software
Collaboration software enables online teamwork through communication, messaging, and file sharing. With it, teams can share information in real time, no matter where members are located. Examples include Microsoft (MS) Teams, Zoom, Webex.
Business Units
GNB business organizations within the Executive, Judicial, and Legislative Branches. These units include, but are not limited to, departments, school districts, hospitals, crown corporations, legislative bodies, and the court system. Business units can provide services to the public or to other units within government. The specific range of business units impacted by any given policy instrument will be found in the Application section.
Directive
GNB employees needing to collaborate with their peers electronically are to be issued a Microsoft M365 user license including an MS Teams client license as the default collaboration software. The employee may be issued a user license for other collaboration software, if their business needs require features not available within MS Teams or if their business has identified a need for business continuity.
If a GNB employee has a business need to make telephone calls, then the GNB employee is to be issued one telephony tool that best meets their needs (MS Teams phone license, mobility or landline). It is acceptable for employees to have both a telephone and collaboration software.
When a Microsoft Teams phone license is being deployed, users may be issued a Microsoft Teams phone device if the business need warrants it.
Purpose
The purpose of this directive is to support the AD-1601 Telephony Policy goal to ensure that all GNB employees have the telephony tools they need to deliver services in the best possible way, balancing effectiveness with cost.
