According to Cisco Systems, "The Cisco IP Telephony Specialization recognizes partners for their knowledge and expertise in selling, designing, installing, and supporting a multi-service network solution." Initially, the specialization was targeted to the enterprise and small and medium-sized business markets.

Effective October 15, 2001, Cisco increased their initial requirements to "identify channel partners with the advanced expertise to deploy complex, large-scale IP telephony solutions." According to Total Communications manager Jeff Nyland, "Originally, there were approximately 800 partners with an IP Telephony specialization. These new requirements should narrow the field down to around 250 partners - making Total Communications one of a very select group."

To earn the Cisco IP Telephony Specialization, Total's Network Engineers completed a number of rigorous courses, exams and advanced certifications.