A. Cloud-Based and Hybrid Infrastructure: Proposals should detail solutions that are fully hosted in the cloud or offer a hybrid model that intelligently combines cloudbased services with on-premises hardware. This approach should facilitate seamless remote management, offer scalability, and provide the flexibility to optimize performance and reliability according to specific operational needs. B. Unified Communications: The solution should strengthen our communication capabilities without duplicating existing services. Given that the city already utilizes video conferencing platforms, the proposed system should focus on enhancing voice communications, instant messaging, and email integration, while offering optional integration with Microsoft Teams for a cohesive communication environment. The emphasis should be on streamlining internal and external communications, improving collaboration, and ensuring seamless connectivity among employees, without the need for additional video conferencing capabilities. C. Mobile Integration: Full functionality must be extended to mobile devices to enable employees to stay connected and maintain productivity from any location. D. Reliability and Redundancy: The proposed solution must offer high reliability and built-in redundancy to maintain communication capabilities during emergencies or outages, especially in our Public Safety & Transit department. It should include failover features that ensure uninterrupted service. E. Integration Capabilities: Demonstrate the ability to integrate seamlessly with our existing IT infrastructure, including email platforms (e.g., Microsoft Exchange) and other business applications, to enhance workflow automation and efficiency. F. Scalability: The system must easily scale up or down to accommodate the evolving needs of the city, from adding new users to integrating new functionalities without significant disruptions or overhead costs. G. Advanced Features: Provide advanced telephone features such as auto-attendant, voicemail-to-email transcription, call forwarding, call recording, call queuing, and customizable call routing to support diverse departmental needs. H. Security and Compliance: Adhere to industry-standard security protocols to protect sensitive information and ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards. I. Training and Support: Offer comprehensive training for IT staff and end-users to ensure smooth adoption and ongoing support to address any issues that may arise. J. Cost-Effectiveness: Present a cost-effective solution that demonstrates value through a clear pricing structure, low total cost of ownership, and minimal upfront investment.
