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Phonetics Operator Q & A

  1. What if names are mis-pronounced?
  2. What if the system doesn't recognize the pronunciation of my name?
  3. The system doesn't recognize my nickname?
  4. Can I call the directory system from off campus?
  5. What if my name is not found?
  6. What if my name is found but it doesn't connect me?
  7. What if the department I ask for connects me to the wrong department?
  8. How do I get a live operator?
  9. Why did we call the Phonetic System Ernestine?

  1. What if names are mis-pronounced?
  2. The system pronounces most names correctly. However, if your name isn't being pronounced correctly, please dial into the system 6-0000 and hit the * key. This will drop you into a script which you can use to record your name correctly. This recording will be sent to our vendor who will have it professionally recorded and imported into the system. This process, start to finish, takes about four weeks.

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  3. What if the system doesn't recognize the pronunciation of my name?
  4. In this case, call 6-5966 and we'll work with you and our vendor to get the problem corrected.

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  5. The system doesn't recognize my nickname?
  6. We're updating the system with first names, last names and preferred names from Banner. Most common nicknames (Dave for David, Liz for Elizabeth, etc.) will be recognized automatically. If you are a faculty or staff member and the system isn't recognizing your nickname, you can fill out the form at the following URL and return it to the payroll office. http://baowww.uoregon.edu/Forms/pfn.pdf At the present time, students don't have the ability to have a preferred name listed with Banner and the Registrar's office.

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  7. Can I call the directory system from off-campus?
  8. Yes, anyone can dial 541-346-0000 and use the system. It should be of particular use to university personnel who are traveling and/or calling in from cell phones.

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  9. What if my name is not found?
  10. If you have requested your name not be listed in any of the directories then your name will not show up in Ernestine’s database. If you have not requested your name be withheld please call 346-5966.

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  11. What if my name is found but it doesn't connect me?
  12. If this happens, call technical support at 346-5966 and we will look into it.

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  13. What if the department I ask for connects me to the wrong department?
  14. See if you can duplicate the problem - call 6-0000 again and try to connect, and see if the system consistently gets the transfer wrong. Then, please call us at 6-5966 with the details and we'll investigate.

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  15. How do I get a live operator?
  16. At any time during your phone call you wish to speak with a live operator, simply press the 0 key and you will be directed to an operator. This service is available during working hours when live operators are available.

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  17. Why did we call the Phonetic System Ernestine?
  18. Celebrity pseudonym of comedienne Lily Tomlin when she portrayed "Ernestine, the telephone operator" on the comedy variety program ROWAN AND MARTIN'S LAUGH-IN/NBC/1968-73. And, that's the truthththth.

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If you have any questions on this, need assistance, or for more information, use the contact information below to reach Telecom Services directly.