The Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle has invested in voice and data technology as part of a broad scale makeover programme that began last year and is due to be completed in phases throughout the next 12 months.
Executel’s solution forms part of the project and will upgrade existing technology within The Bowes Museum, providing the estate with a fully integrated Mitel IP communications infrastructure. This in turn will streamline operations, aid more efficient call-handling and ultimately benefit service delivery as a whole.
Work being carried out on the French-style chateau includes the creation of two new galleries, a revamp of the acclaimed Café Bowes, an extended retail area and a new education suite. The Museum’s famous central dome will also be redesigned to house a reading room and archive while new visitor amenities will complete the makeover.
Of the technology upgrade, Matt Leng, Head of Business Operations for The Bowes Museum, said: “Like all businesses, The Bowes Museum must keep pace with the latest technologies. The installation of new communications equipment is an essential part of behind-the-scenes Museum operations and will complement the front of house improvements currently being made.”
John Robson, Account Manager for Executel, added: “The Bowes Museum is a world class visitor attraction and this will be a somewhat challenging project for us due to the fact that we are working within an historic and protected environment. Conserving the original qualities of the building is obviously of utmost importance and therefore careful planning and execution of the installation is required.
“We have however a wealth of experience with historic buildings and challenging environments and therefore expect to deliver a complete communications solution that will greatly assist the smooth and efficient running of operations.
“When complete, The Bowes Museum will boast a combination of upgraded 19th century surroundings alongside 21st century technology and we are delighted to be contributing to this unique and somewhat unusual formula.”