Is your Business ready for the Analogue Phone Switch Off?

Phone systems across the UK are upgrading from the use of copper cabling to internet-powered technology.

Are you ready for the switch?

You’ve probably been contacted recently about upgrades being made to the way that landline phones work – either personal or business-based – also known as the ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) switch-off.

As remote and flexible working continue to be coveted and the internet is better than ever, the switch to online phone systems makes sense for a multitude of reasons:

• Flexibility
• Better quality calls
• Superior connectivity
• More features
• Better cost efficiency

With our day-to-day reliance on mobile phones, it’s likely that you weren’t even aware that we’re still use old copper cabling to manage UK landlines. And that fact is unlikely to have had any relevance to you – until now.

It may surprise you to know that the majority of the analogue network dates back to the 19th century, although some elements are even older!

We know what you’re thinking… it must have been a long time coming to make a UK-wide switch over – and it has.

But despite the delays and pushbacks which inevitably occur with a project of this scale, the deadline for switching is fast approaching, and we all need to get ready.

With all these benefits clear to see, plans were announced to discontinue the installation of traditional lines. The phased rollout of a nationwide upgrade and replacement service has already begun, and is estimated to complete in 2025, according to the government website here.

Another term you may have come across is VoIP – Voice over Internet Protocol – which refers to the ‘new’ digital phone lines which work through the internet. Essentially, the transition to a fully digital network represents a significant shift into the 21st century, as we upgrade mass telephone infrastructure in line with the digital age.

So, what do I need to do?

If you’ve already made the switch or arranged for your lines to take place, then you don’t have anything to worry about. Providers will switch you over to digital lines as a standard upgrade, with no uplift in cost, and household lines will be scheduled with you directly.

If, however, you haven’t yet arranged for an upgrade of your business lines, then you’ll need to start planning for it. While looking at your options for the transition, it may be worth shopping around and considering other upgrades to your telecoms that could benefit your business.

The industry of telecoms and integrations has come on leaps and bounds in recent years, leveraging the power of the internet and intelligent systems to offer features you may never have even thought of!

From technology that translates faxes to email, to transcriptions that provide you with a summary of phone conversations, there are multiple features that could bring added value to you and your business by saving time and streamlining your operations.

Some other features you possibly haven’t thought about, but which come as standard with Wayv, at no extra cost:

• Call recording
• On-hold marketing
• Voicemail to email
• Call coaching
• Auto attendant

These are just a few of the options for you to consider. If you want to find out more, go to our website and request a call back – we’d love to help you achieve your business goals!