Are you one of the estimated 2 million UK businesses still operating on PSTN or ISDN lines?
Recent research shows that 42% of SMEs continue to use analogue lines for data transmission. If this stat includes your business, the switch-off will directly impact your operations and the time to plan your digital transformation is now.
How Will This Affect Your Business?
The PSTN switch-off impacts far more than just your desk phones. It affects the entire communications ecosystem that supports your operations, including;
- Traditional landline phones
- Fax machines
- CCTV systems
- Security alarms
- EPOS machines
- Lift alarms
- Door entry systems
- Telecare systems
Without preparation, these vital systems could cease functioning when the switch-off occurs.
What is the new deadline?
The PSTN switch off was originally scheduled for December 2025. It was extended to January 2027, after concerns were raised by local governments, local mayors, SME owners and the London Digital Chief Officer that businesses were not ready.
The UK government invested further funds in awareness campaigns and extended the deadline, allowing businesses more time to prepare.
Lessons Learnt
The COVID-19 pandemic revealed the limitations of on-premise phone systems; sales teams using personal mobiles as work phone replacements, receptionists unable to transfer calls remotely and employees resorting to email have created risky workarounds that could lead to customer loss.
Cloud-based phone solutions end these struggles both now and long term. Cloud systems offer significant benefits for remote workers, save costs, and simplify technology – creating a future-ready communications platform that supports business continuity regardless of circumstances.
The Benefits of Making the Switch Now
Why wait until the deadline approaches? Transitioning now offers significant advantages.
- Future-Proof Your Business: Stay ahead of the technological curve and prepare for the inevitable switch-off.
- Enhanced Features and Mobility: Support flexible and remote working with systems designed for the modern workplace. Employees can make and answer calls from anywhere, maintaining business continuity regardless of location.
- Improved Customer Experience: Provide more responsive service with features like intelligent call routing and CRM integration.
- Significant Cost Savings: Recent studies show that switching to cloud-based phone systems can reduce overheads by approximately 30%.
Tela can help
Whether you are looking to future proof your business ahead of the switch off, or you are considering how to improve your business’ remote working capabilities, save money through predictable monthly costs, or simplify your technology stack, we have a number of solutions that can help.
Contact Tela today on 01675 444 320, or sales@telatechnology.com for a free, no obligation consultation
