The British Museum is overhauling its IT department in a seven-year programme.

The project includes the deployment of an integrated voice over IP (VoIP) network, which aims to reduce the museum’s maintenance and support costs, as well as a CCTV installation.

The VoIP network will be piloted by the Information Services department and will be used as part of a business case for extending the system to all of the museum’s staff and visitors.

A contract with supplier Pinacl Solutions is designed to ensure business continuity in a time of upheaval, said British Museum information services manager Jason Greeves.

“We know that if we need advice or technical support either related to the existing network or throughout the deployment period and beyond, our service delivery manager is on hand to assist,” he said.

Pinacl will provide a managed helpdesk service to support the museum’s voice and data networks. A key point of contact will resolve any questions and issues.

The museum will also use the partnership to upgrade its network management reporting tools, which give an overview of the computer infrastructure in place, and upgrade the existing block wiring to structured cabling.