Montana IT Environment
This section describes the computing and telecommunications environment and standards that have been established for the State. Hardware and software that fall under these standards represent a large majority of the installed base, although individual agencies may differ in their hardware and software needs.
The State's information technology environment is managed and operated from an enterprise perspective. The governance structure involves several organizations, the Information Technology Services Division (ITSD) of the Department of Administration, and agency information technology organizations.
Links to major sections of the Information Technology Environment page
ITSD Responsibilities, Services, and Resources
The ITSD is responsible for the delivery of information services and the planning, coordination, training, control and security of information resources throughout state government. Information services and resources provided include:
- Computing and telecommunications hardware and software;
- Operational services;
- Professional hardware and software specialists to support the technical environment;
- Web development services and support; and
- Professional specialists to develop and coordinate policy, research, and development of information resources.
ITSD manages a mainframe platform and associated software for applications requiring these resources. ITSD manages a distributed network of mid-tier computing platforms (non-mainframe and non-PCs), and a central mid-tier service. ITSD also manages the statewide voice and data networks that allow all agencies and other qualifying organizations, including remote offices, to communicate with and use central resources.
ITSD establishes enterprise-computing policies in coordination with agencies. ITSD also works with agencies to develop strategic plans and directions for information technology in the State. Enterprise computing contracts are also managed by ITSD.
State of Montana's Information Technology Plan
In July 2001, the Montana Information Technology Act (Senate Bill 131) became effective. The Act created the position of Chief Information Officer for the state and established guiding principles for the implementation of information technology in state government. A critical component of the Act is the recognition by the Legislature and the Governor of the need for a single vision for information technology in state government. The Act provides for the development of a strategic plan for information technology in integral piece for establishing the foundation for well-managed deployment and use of information technology in state government.
In September 2001, the Information Technology Board created by the Act, began the process of developing this information technology strategic plan. The State of Montana Strategic Plan for Information Technology provides the framework and guidance for state agencies to develop and use information technology resources to provide state government services.
The Montana Information Technology Act also requires that each state agency develop an information technology plan. Information from the individual agency plans, along with research and trend information, is used in the Strategic Plan for Information Technology. State agency plans and projects will be summarized in a companion document. The summaries provide specific agency technology goals and objectives information and outline the budget requirements for implementing the plans. The Act also requires the Department of Administration to review and approve the agency plans and provide oversight for the state's procurement of information technology.
The Strategic Plan for IT should be viewed in concert with the agency IT plans and the state's IT budget. These documents, when considered together, document the State of Montana's plans for information technology now and in the future.
The State of Montana Strategic Plan for Information Technology has been approved by Governor Martz, accepted by the Legislative Finance Committee and is being applied throughout state government. The Strategic Plan for IT provides the framework and guidance to improve the state's use of information technology by coordinating all state agencies' IT planning, budgeting and implementation.
"The legislature and governor have made it a clear priority to use information technology efficiently and effectively to provide services to citizens of this state. The Strategic Plan for IT sets the tone and direction for the Department of Administration and all agencies of state government. We must take an enterprise approach to accomplish the strategic vision of the plan," said Scott Darkenwald, Director of the Department of Administration and Chair of the Information Technology Board.
Brian Wolf, the first Chief Information Officer for the State of Montana believes "The Strategic Plan for IT is the 'stake in the ground' from which all information technology implementation will proceed." Mr. Wolf also stated, "I have had the opportunity to review information technology plans from several other states and say with sincerity that ours is one of the best. The effort of the state staff, the Information Technology Board, and private sector representatives that participated in developing the plan is commendable. The quality and completeness of the plan produced in seven months is superb."
Nine goals and 36 strategies support the themes expressed throughout the document and demonstrate how the state intends to achieve its vision. They also set the general direction for the state government's use of IT resources. If the strategies tell state organizations where to shoot, then initiatives provide the targets. Eight strategic initiatives provide specific avenues of IT implementation for the state.
The complete plan is available at http://itsd.mt.gov/stratplan/statewideplan.asp or a printed copy may be obtained by contacting the Department of Administration's Information Technology Services Division at (406) 444-2700.
Mainframe, Mid-tier, PC, Network and LAN Environments
Mainframe Computing Environment
- The State operates an IBM zSeries 800 2066-002 mainframe that is connected to the network through Systems Network Architecture (SNA) (3745) and TCP/IP (Cisco 7500 CIP).
- The DASD configuration consists of an IBM 2105-800 configured for 3390 Models 3, 9 and 27 geometry, totaling 6.7 TB capacity.
- The State uses 3490-E cartridge drives, and 3590-E MAGSTAR cartridge drives. The 3590-E reside in an IBM 3494 ATL that includes an IBM VTS.
- The following printers are available from the mainframe: 2) IBM 2710 sheet feed laser printers (105 pages per minute), and 2) IBM 3835 Laser continuous form printers.
- For a complete list of Mainframe Software Standards: http://itsd.mt.gov/policy/software.asp
Mainframe/Mid-tier Operating Systems
- The mainframe runs IBM's z/OS operating system. The mid-tier computing environment is targeted toward general purpose, multi-user, multi-tasking application services. The standard operating systems are Microsoft Windows NT, IBM AIX and Compaq TRU64 UNIX.
- For a complete list of Mainframe/Mid-Tier Software Standards: http://itsd.mt.gov/policy/software.asp
Mid-tier Computing Environment
- The mid-tier environment consists of IBM RS/6000 computers running AIX, and Windows servers running in VMWare partitions, and a SAN that consists of HP EVA systems, connected by McData directors.
- For a complete list of Mid-Tier Software Standards: http://itsd.mt.gov/policy/software.asp
Personal Computer Operating Systems
- The State standard and supported operating systems are Windows 2000 and Windows XP.
- For a complete list of PC and LAN Software Standards: http://itsd.mt.gov/policy/software.asp
Personal Computer (PC) Environment
- The State has established a PC standard based on IBM and IBM-compatible equipment and selected software. ITSD provides technical support for hardware and software within this standard. The State currently has in place term contracts for purchases of PCs manufactured by Dell, IBM, and HP. The emphasis in the PC environment is on the use of networked systems.
- For a complete list of PC and LAN Software Standards: http://itsd.mt.gov/policy/software.asp
Desktop Software Environment
- The supported desktop software standard is Microsoft Office 2000, Office XP and Office 2003. MS Access is the desktop database software standard for small applications.
- For a complete list of PC and LAN Software Standards: http://itsd.mt.gov/policy/software.asp
Data Network Environment
The State provides data networking facilities and services for all agencies and other qualifying organizations.
SummitNet (the State and Universities of Montana Multi-Protocol Network) is the Intranet for the State of Montana and the Montana University System. The primary supported protocol is TCP/IP, but it also supports some IPX. The SummitNet core backbone is currently a T-1 meshed network connected by Cisco 7500 series routers located in Bozeman, Helena, and Missoula. In the next 6 months, the State will be migrating to an ATM based core network connecting major campus sites in Billings, Bozeman, Butte, Dillon, Great Falls, Havre, Helena, Kalispell, Miles City and Missoula. Helena has 2 major aggregation locations, one at the Mitchell Building, 125 N. Roberts and one at the National Guard Armory, 1100 N. Main.
Remote locations are typically connected by 56Kbs/28.8CIR and T1/768 CIR frame relay circuits. The State perceives that the number of T1/768 CIR installations and 56Kbs/28.8CIR circuit upgrade to T1/768 CIR will grow significantly. ITSD uses a private address numbering plan for IP addressing requirements with the general government portion of SummitNet. The State utilizes Cisco Private Internet Exchange (PIX) hardware to provide IP address translation and firewall protection.
SummitNet currently has approximately 445 routers installed through the network; approximately 395 are connected by frame relay circuits. There are 12 K-12 school districts, 10 city and county government connections currently installed. Link to the State of Montana SummitNet II Network Diagram: http://itsd.mt.gov/techmt/summitnet.asp
Local Area Network Environment
The State has implemented two major data networking topologies, Token-Ring and Ethernet. ITSD maintains a Campus Fiber Backbone (CFB) network for connecting Local Area Networks (LANs) deployed throughout the State Capitol Complex in Helena. Each building has a collapsed backbone connecting multiple segments within IBM 8260 intelligent hubs or Cisco Ethernet switches to connect to the CFB. The State also has a growing number of 802.3 Ethernet switched LAN environments.
Leased 16Mbps Transparent LAN Services (TLS) connect large off-campus sites in Helena to the CFB. In about 6 months these locations will be converting to LAN Switching Services.
Most remote offices use IBM 8228 Multi-Station Access Units (MSAU) or Cisco Ethernet switches for LAN connectivity. The majority of the remote offices are wired with CAT-5 UTP cable, but some Type 3 cable still exists. These remote offices operate at speeds of 16Mb, 10Mb, or 4Mb depending on their wiring infrastructure, LAN topology and workstation capabilities. Remote LANs are typically connected to the backbone with 56Kb/28.8CIR or T1/768 CIT frame relay circuits and Cisco Routers.
For a complete list of PC and LAN Software Standards: http://itsd.mt.gov/policy/software.asp
File & Print Operating System
Microsoft's Windows 2000, Windows 2003, Novell's NetWare 6.5 and OES - NetWare are the standard file & print operating systems. Currently, the State has approximately 240 NetWare servers and 50 Windows servers providing file & print services. The IP protocol is being used for the LAN/WAN. The State uses a single eDirectory tree and a single Active Directory forest for enterprise management and security of file and print services. The directories are centrally managed by ITSD.
For a complete list of PC and LAN Software Standards: http://itsd.mt.gov/policy/software.asp
Directory Services
The State does not have a single directory strategy, but rather a number of strategies related to different computing platforms and applications. The State uses ACF2 for the IBM z/OS mainframe environment, Microsoft Active Directory for Windows server environments, Novell eDirectory for NetWare file and printing services, and Oracle Internet Directory for Oracle applications. Where possible, applications requiring authentication and directory services utilize one of these primary directories. The State will be considering options for an enterprise directory strategy to integrate the various directories currently in operation.
Service Desk
ITSD maintains a single point of contact. The Service Desk is staffed with 13 technicians who provide support 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Support is available 24 hours a day for emergencies through an on-call process. The Service Desk provides two separate distinct functions: (1) logging, tracking, resolution, and elevation of problems; and (2) project management for coordination of all data network adds, moves, and changes including SummitNet conversions and new installations. ITSD's network management tools employed include Peregrine Systems' Service Center for problem, change, inventory, and asset management tracking; IBM's NetView AIX and CISCO WORKS for enterprise network proactive monitoring and troubleshooting; and Omegamon VTAM for monitoring NCP and VTAM usage, as well as SNA data communications. ITSD has a regularly scheduled network and computing facilities outage period for maintenance purposes.
Internet Access
The State of Montana, the University of Montana and Montana State University currently have their own Internet portals. ITSD currently contracts with VISION NET for Internet Access. The Internet connection is via a 12Megabit ATM circuit connected to a State owned Cisco 3660 class router located in the Mitchell Building at 125 N. Roberts in Helena.
The ATM circuit provides Internet access for State, County, City Governments and other approved non-profit entities, across the State, via the State's WAN. The State's current WAN community gains access to Internet via approximately 305 - 56K and 70 - T1 frame relay circuits. Approximately 40% of this WAN traffic is aggregated in Billings and transported to Helena via two 12Megabit ATM circuits. A small portion of the traffic is aggregated in Kalispell and transported to Helena.
All entities utilizing the State's four Internet portals pass through a State owned PIX firewall. The PIX firewall resides on the same LAN segment as the State owned Internet router. This segment is defined as being on the outside of the State network. The PIX firewall provides security to all devices on the inside of the State's network and performs Network Address Translation (NAT) for IP communications.
The State uses private IP addressing for devices that reside on the inside of the firewall. A Private Class A address is used for State Government entities and Class B private addresses are used for County/City Governments. The State also has a registered 161.7.0.0 Class B for addressing public devices. IP administration, which includes IP address management and Domain Name Services (DNS), is maintained by State personnel for entities connected to the State's WAN and LAN networks. There are two inside DNS boxes (primary and secondary) and two outside DNS boxes (primary and secondary).
Many users have installed web browsers and are actively using the Internet. Microsoft Internet Explorer is the supported web browser.
Enterprise E-mail
The enterprise e-mail system is Microsoft Exchange using the Microsoft Outlook client on the desktop.
Enterprise Database
The State has established Oracle as its enterprise database standard. Oracle is one of the key foundational pieces for the implementation and deployment of client/server computing and distributed processing in the State.
SABHRS Services Bureau
The Department of Administration, Administrative Financial Services Division is responsible for maintaining the Statewide Accounting, Budgeting, and Human Resources System (SABHRS). The SABHRS Services Bureau exists within the Division to carry out this responsibility.
The accounting and human resource components of SABHRS consists of nine PeopleSoft modules: General Ledger, Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, Asset Management, Purchasing, Human Resources, Benefits Administration, Time and Labor, and Payroll. The State is currently on HRMS release 8.3 and Financials release 8.4.
The budget development component of SABHRS, referred to as MBARS (Montana Budget, Analysis and Reporting System), is an application developed and provided by Affinity Global Solutions, Inc., formally known as Legacy Solutions Inc. MBARS consists of five modules: Executive Planning Processing (EPP), Capital Projects (CP), General Budget Building, Budget Implementation, and Narrative Publications.
Centralized Imaging Services
The State has implemented a Centralized Imaging Service based on FileNet's Panagon web based software. The Centralized Imaging service components are as follows:
- An IBM RS6000 S-70 running AIX 4.3.3, Oracle 8.1.7, Panagon Image Services 3.6 and Workflow Services 4.2.2;
- An HPSureStore 320 EX Optical Jukebox with 4 drives and 64 slots. It has a 332.8 GB capacity using 5.2 GB 5 1/2" platters, and an HP SureStore 2200MX with 4 drives and 238 slots. It has a 2.1 TB capacity using 9.1 GB 5 ˝" platters.
- A Windows 2000 server running Oracle 8.1.7 and Panagon Content Services 5.2;
- A Windows 2000 server running Panagon Web Services 3. 2a & Microsoft IIS 5.0;
- Multiple scanners attached to Windows 2000 workstations running Panagon Capture Professional 3.1 or 4 .0 and IDM Desktop 3. 1 or 3. 2a;
- Multiple workstations running Windows 98, Windows 2000 or Windows XP, and Panagon Capture Doc Entry 3.1 or 4 .0; and
- Multiple workstations running Windows 98, Windows 2000 or Windows XP, and Visual WorkFlo 3.3 Desktop.
Panagon offers full featured electronic document management imaging, and workflow abilities. This service is managed and operated by ITSD.
State of Montana Telecommunications Systems
The facilities of the State's telecommunications systems are provided principally for the conduct of State and University System business. The State’s telecommunications systems are available for use by political subdivisions of the State. Political subdivisions means: any county, city, municipal corporation, school district, special improvement district or taxing jurisdiction, or any other political subdivision or public corporation.
The following information is provided for information purposes. The Offeror must ascertain any relevance of this information to the proposal. The information provided is to aid the Offeror in calculating the pricing of their services in response to this RFP.
The State of Montana currently operates a voice, data and video network over leased digital T-1 and DS3 circuits linking these city pairs:
City pairs for Montana T-1 and DS3 circuits
| Helena – Butte | Helena – Kalispell |
| Missoula – Kalispell | Helena – Billings |
| Helena – Missoula | Helena – Boulder |
| Helena – Warm Springs | Helena – Bozeman |
| Billings – Miles City | Helena – Deer Lodge |
| Bozeman – Billings | Helena – Dillon |
| Butte – Dillon | Helena – Great Falls |
| Helena – Havre |
Currently the State has DS3 connections between QWEST Communications and the Mitchell Building in Helena, the University of Montana in Missoula, and the Montana State University in Bozeman. The State has DS3 MUX equipment located at these locations. (Note: The network details of the State network may occasionally change as the State adds, changes, moves, and deletes facilities.)
The State uses an ATM based core network, for the transport of voice, video and data, connecting major campus sites in Billings, Bozeman, Butte, Dillon, Great Falls, Havre, Helena, Missoula, along with the other PBX and video sites in Boulder, Deer Lodge and Warm Springs.
There are 4 major node locations on the State network that serve as an Electronic Tandem Network (ETN) environment and have direct connections to the Inter-Exchange Carriers (IXC) – AT& T, Sprint, and direct connections with Qwest for intralata terminating network service services. These locations are as follows: State Capitol Complex-Mitchell Bldg. (SCC) in Helena; the University of Montana (UM) in Missoula; Montana State University (MSU) in Bozeman; and Montana State University-Billings (MSU-B) in Billings. The IXC direct connections handle outward long distance services (1+ Intralata, Interlata, InterState, and International, and 0-, 0+ Operator traffic) and inward long distance services (IXC direct termination contract services, and inward WATS 800/888 service). . Overflow traffic not carried by the State’s network is sent to the carrier from each major node for termination via the carrier's public network.
The Local Exchange Carriers (LECs) provide DID/DOD services directly to all of the network nodes. The LECs also provide DID/DOD services to key systems and IFB service in remote locations.
At the major node locations our current IXC's (AT&T, Sprint and MCI Worldcom) direct connections total 31 DS1s, including direct ISDN-PRS DS1s with D-Channel to a couple of the State's Call Centers; State Fund in Helena and FW&P in Missoula, and the State’s METNET Video Conference Bridge. Qwest has total of 3 DS1s for their direct terminating network service connections to MSU-Billings, UM-Missoula and SCC-Helena. The following shows quantity of DS1s by the location.
Quantity of DS1s by Location
| Location | City | NPA/NXX | #DS1s | #Trunks | Type of Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSU-Billings | Billings | 406-657 | 4 | 96 | DS1s |
| MSU-Bozeman | Bozeman | 406-994 | 6 | 144 | DS1s |
| Capitol Complex (SCC) | Helena | 406-444 | 10 | 240 | |
| Capitol Complex-METNET Video Conference Bridge | Helena | 406-444 | 1 | 24 | ISDN-PRS w/ D-channel |
| State Fund Call Center | Helena | 406-444 | 2 | 48 | ISDN-PRS w/ D-channel |
| UM-Missoula | Missoula | 406-243 | 7 | 168 | ISDN-PRS |
| Total | 31 | 744 |
Switches
The State Telephone Network links 37 Nortel Meridian-1 PBXs, 17 of which are Meridian-1 PBXs, 18 are Option-11 PBXs and 2 Option-21 PBXs. In addition there are 6 remote peripheral equipment (RPEs) locations of the Meridian PBX at the Mitchell Building in Helena. The switches utilize Digital Trunk Interfaces (DTI) capability for interconnections. The State Telephone Network utilizes Nortel Electronic Switched Network (ESN) software, supporting alternate routing tables for long distance calling. These tables are for routing On-Network calls to locations where they can best take advantage of carrier service pricing. All of the SL-1 switches have NARS (Network Alternate Route Selection). The network control center is located in Helena at the State Capitol Complex (SCC).
| DESCRIPTION | LOCATION | NORTEL SWITCH TYPE | SOFTWARE RELEASE |
|---|---|---|---|
| State Capitol Complex | 125 Roberts St, Helena | 1000M-MG | 3.00 |
| MSU Bozeman | Renne Library Building | 1000M-MG | 4.5 |
| Great Falls School for Deaf & Blind | 3911 Central Ave, Great Falls | Meridian Option STE | 21.54 |
| UM College of Tech East | 909 S Ave West, Missoula | Option 11 | 18.30 |
| UM College of Tech West | 3639 S Ave West, Missoula | Option 11 | 18.30 |
| Prospect Building | 2250 Prospect, Helena | Option 11C | 3.00 |
| Federal Building | Federal Building, Helena | Option 11C | 3.00 |
| Front Street | 920 Front St, Helena | Option 11C | 23.00 |
| Liquor Warehouse | Airport Road, Helena | Option 11C | 23.35 |
| Northgate Plaza | 3075 N Montana Ave, Helena | Option 11C | 4.5 |
| Dept of Justice | 615 S 27th St, Billings | Option 11C | 23.18 |
| MSU GF College of Tech | 2100 16th Ave S, Great Falls | Option 11C | 3.00 |
| Board of Investments | 2401 Colonial Drive, Helena | Option 11C | 3.00 |
| Pine Hills School | 108 N Haynes, Miles City | Option 11C | 24.24 |
| Forensic Lab | 2679 Palmer, Missoula | Option 11C | 4.00 |
| Butte College of Tech | 25 Basin Creek Rd, Butte | Option 11E | 21.70 |
| Forestry | 2705 Spurgin Road, Missoula | Option 11C | 4.5 |
| Family Services | 2508 3rd Ave N, Billings | Option 21 | 21.54 |
| Butte DPHHS | 700 Casey St, Butte | Option 51 | 19.68 |
| Kalispell Job Service | 427 1st Ave E, Kalispell | Option 51 | 21.54 |
| Montana Developmental Center | 310 W 4th Ave, Boulder | Option 11C | 4.5 |
| Department of Transportation | 2701 Prospect Ave, Helena | Option 61 | 3.00 |
| Armory | 1100 N Last Chance Gulch, Helena | Option 61 | 3.00 |
| MSU Northern | 300 11th St W, Havre | Option 61 | 3.00 |
| WMC UM | 710 S Atlantic, Dillon | Option 61 | 3.00 |
| State Fund | 5 S Last Chance Gulch, Helena | Option 61C | 3.00 |
| MSH-Warm Springs Hospital | Warm Springs Campus | Option 61C | 4.5 |
| Fort Harrison | Fort Harrison, Helena | Option 11C | 3.00 |
| UM Montana Tech | 1300 W Park, Butte | Option 61C | 24.25 |
| Montana State Prison | 500 Conley Lake Rd, Deer Lodge | Option 61C | 24.25 |
| UM-Missoula | 32 Campus Drive, Missoula | Option 81C | 25.40 |
| MSU-Billings | 1500 N 30th St., Billings | Option XT | 21.54 |
| Lottery | 2525 N Montana, Helena | Option 11C | 3.00 |
| MHESAC | 2500 E Broadway, Helena | 9150 | SCC |
| Shodair Hospital | 840 Helena Ave, Helena | Carrier Remote | SCC |
| UM College of Tech | 1115 N Roberts, Helena | Mini Carr Remote | SCC |
| Beck Building | 1805 E Prospect, Helena | Carrier Remote | SCC |
| Highways | 2701 Prospect, Helena | 9150 | SCC |
Number of Stations on the Network
| DESCRIPTION | LOCATION | ACTUAL STATIONS | WIRED FOR STATIONS | EQUIPPED FOR STATIONS | TRUNK PORTS | MAIL PORTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| State Capitol Complex | 125 Roberts St, Helena | 5434 | 7489 | 7169 | 1878 | 84 |
| Armory | 1100 N Last Chance Gulch, Helena | 129 | 239 | 175 | 93 | |
| Fort Harrison | Fort Harrison, Helena | 81 | 96 | 96 | 48 | |
| State Fund | 5 S Last Chance Gulch, Helena | 563 | 1015 | 727 | 176 | 24 |
| Department of Transportation | 2701 Prospect Ave, Helena | 808 | 987 | 891 | 76 | |
| Board of Investments | 2401 Colonial Drive, Helena | 262 | 459 | 427 | 47 | |
| Prospect Building | 2250 Prospect, Helena | 231 | 272 | 256 | 55 | |
| IBM Building | 100 Park Ave, Helena | 82 | 128 | 112 | 27 | |
| Federal Building | Federal Building, Helena | 464 | 576 | 512 | 76 | |
| Front Street | 920 Front St, Helena | 31 | 144 | 48 | 25 | |
| Liquor Warehouse | Airport Road, Helena | 199 | 201 | 137 | 63 | |
| Northgate Plaza | 3075 N Montana Ave, Helena | 160 | 272 | 208 | 29 | |
| MSU Bozeman | Renne Library Building | 6003 | 7089 | 6401 | 448 | 16 |
| UM-Missoula | 32 Campus Drive, Missoula | 4677 | 5086 | 4878 | 562 | 36 |
| UM College of Tech East | 909 S Ave West, Missoula | 102 | 173 | 119 | 23 | |
| UM College of Tech West | 3639 S. Ave West, Missoula | 32 | 119 | 55 | 23 | |
| Forestry | 2705 Spurgin Road, Missoula | 213 | 312 | 312 | 23 | |
| Forensic Lab | 2679 Palmer, Missoula | 399 | 448 | 416 | 52 | 12 |
| MSU Billings | 1500 N 30th ST, Billings | 1263 | 1614 | 1422 | 462 | 22 |
| Family Services | 2508 3rd Ave N, Billings | 25 | 112 | 64 | 48 | 4 |
| Dept of Justice | 615 S 27thSt, Billings | 197 | 272 | 224 | 49 | 6 |
| UM Montana Tech | 1300 W Park, Butte | 738 | 1024 | 845 | 167 | 12 |
| Butte College of Tech | 25 Basin Creek Rd, Butte | 76 | 176 | 80 | 25 | |
| Butte DPHHS | 700 Casey St, Butte | 94 | 228 | 120 | 25 | |
| Great Falls School for Deaf & Blind | 3900 Central Ave, Great Falls | 164 | 200 | 164 | 54 | |
| MSU GF College of Tech | 2100 16th Ave S, Great Falls | 229 | 384 | 304 | 121 | 4 |
| MSU Northern | 300 11th St W, Havre | 599 | 748 | 668 | 129 | 8 |
| WMC UM | 710 S Atlantic, Dillon | 633 | 630 | 630 | 81 | 4 |
| Montana State Prison | 500 Conley Lake Rd, Deer Lodge | 389 | 456 | 392 | 73 | |
| Pine Hills School | 108 N Hayes Ave, Miles City | 100 | 236 | 140 | 65 | 4 |
| Warm Springs Hospital | Warm Springs Campus | 316 | 472 | 344 | 73 | |
| Kalispell Job Service | 427 1st Ave E, Kalispell | 86 | 144 | 96 | 97 | 8 |
| Montana Developmental Center | 310 W 4th Ave, Boulder | 181 | 476 | 228 | 63 | |
| Lottery | 2525 N Montana, Helena | 39 | 128 | 64 | 23 | |
| TOTAL | 24,965 | 32,093 | 28,724 | 5,279 | 244 |
University System
There are six units of the University System that have access to the State network. The University System does not provide for student long distance services.
- Montana State University-Billings (MSU-B) – Billings
- Montana State University (MSU) – Bozeman
- Montana Tech of University of Montana (MT-UM_ – Butte
- University of Montana (UM) – Missoula
- University of Montana-Western (WMC-UM) – Dillon
- Montana State University-Northern (MSU-N) – Havre **
Total Call Minutes
The State has contracts with AT&T, Sprint and QWEST through which long distance calls for agencies on and off the State Telephone Network are billed at a discounted rate. The State receives and processes magnetic tapes of these records each month, through our current management system.
Tele-Management System
The State uses a client-server based tele-management system called TRU Server, developed by Telco Research Corporation, which merged with Peregrine, Inc. Peregrine, Inc. was acquired by Symphony Services in 2004.
a) The call collection function of the system consists of solid State recorders located at each PBX throughout Montana. These devices collect call records and transmit them daily to a central PC in Helena. Call data is also received from a variety of other sources such as QWEST, AT&T, Sprint and various independent companies. All of the call data is reformatted and transferred into the tele-management system for further processing.
b) The Cost Allocation Module of TRU Server costs the call records and bills them to accounts. The call data consists primarily of administrative calls, which are billed to State agencies and universities. In addition, it includes calls made by students residing in the university dorms. These calls are identified by the PIN and applied to student accounts.
c) The Inventory Module bills State agencies for telephone equipment, features and dial tone. This system has the capability to dial into each PBX and reconcile its database against billing records. While this feature is exercised only occasionally at this time, eventually all of our PBX sites will be reconciled on a regular basis, at least once per billing cycle.
d) The Work Order Module is the State’s primary means of issuing, tracking and billing work orders. Among other features, this system allows delivery of work orders to technicians via e-mail. It has the flexibility to distribute the tasks on a single work order to various technicians, and it allows the technician or work order operator to close out individual transactions as they are completed. As a companion to the work order module, the TRU Server M1 Interface provides a means for work order operators to make programming changes directly to the PBX. The State intends to exercise all available features of TRU Server as part of an overall effort to improve the service delivery process.
Meridian Voice Mail
The State has Northern Telecom Meridian Voice Mail systems. The Northern Telecom Meridian Voice Mail system in Helena is equipped with 60 ports, 300 hours of storage and remotes to the following locations: Boulder, Deer Lodge, Great Falls, Warm Springs and all the switches in Helena. Currently there are 5,035 stations that have voice mail served off of the system in Helena.
The Northern Telecom Meridian Voice Mail system at the University of Montana is equipped with 36 ports, 114 hours of storage, and remotes to all the switch locations in Missoula. Currently there are 2,640 stations that have voice mail off the system in Missoula.
The Northern Telecom Meridian Voice Mail system at the Montana State University in Bozeman is equipped with 16 ports, and 54 hours of memory. It serves 1,632 local mailboxes and approximately 45 other voice services (menus and recorded announcement services) at approximately 70% disk capacity.
Other locations that have the Northern Telecom Meridian Voice Mail system are in MSU Billings, Kalispell Labor and Industry, Butte DPHHS, MSU Northern, and WMC UM in Dillon. The State is in the process of migrating to Northern Telecom’s next generation Call Pilot voice mail system in several locations.
The equipment list above is current as of December 30, 2005. The equipment listed could fluctuate over the course of the next several years due to additions, deletions and modifications.
