As the UK’s Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is set to be switched off in 2025, businesses must migrate to digital communications. Despite an impending stop-sell in September 2023, many businesses are yet to transition, prompting concern from UK councils.
James Smith from M247 advises businesses to incorporate the PSTN switch-off into their broader digital transformation strategy, upgrade their IT hardware to embrace digital benefits, and enlist specialist support to better understand the switch-off. This will enable businesses to future-proof their IT infrastructure and deliver seamless experiences.
- 54% of businesses do not believe that the PSTN switch-off has been well-publicised.
- 88% of UK businesses still currently have analogue services running on the PSTN network.
- Transitioning away from the PSTN network as part of a wider digital transformation strategy can ease potential pain points.
Preparing for the PSTN Switch-Off: A Call to Action
The countdown to 2025 has begun. In four years, the UK’s Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) will be officially decommissioned. This move, driven by the increasing challenges of maintaining the ageing infrastructure, means businesses still reliant on analogue phone lines must transition to digital communications. However, as the September 2023 stop-sell deadline looms, there’s a growing worry that many businesses are dragging their feet on this essential transformation.
Addressing the Procrastination Problem
Despite the urgency, a surprising 88% of UK businesses have yet to abandon their analogue services running on the PSTN network, according to a recent study by M247. There’s a clear lack of awareness about the PSTN switch-off, with 54% of businesses believing it hasn’t been adequately publicised.
“Embrace the PSTN switch-off as part of your wider digital transformation strategy,”
advises James Smith, Head of Pre-Sales at M247. He suggests that incorporating the transition away from the PSTN network into wider digital transformation plans can help mitigate potential issues.
Building a Digital Future
The rewards for those who have already embraced digital communication are plentiful. M247’s research reveals that 54% of the respondents have experienced improved flexibility, and 42% have seen an increase in technical capabilities such as call recording and transcription. However, to make the most of these benefits, businesses must upgrade their IT hardware to cope with the increased data demands of services like Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP).
Seeking Specialist Support
Navigating the transition alone can be daunting. That’s why Smith suggests enlisting the help of dedicated service providers. These experts can provide guidance and technical assistance throughout the migration process, ensuring a smooth transition towards post-PSTN operations.
Final Thoughts
The PSTN switch-off is not just an end, but a new beginning. It represents an opportunity for businesses to fully embrace the digital revolution. However, to ensure a seamless transition and unlock the full potential of digital communications, businesses must act now. Seek expert guidance, upgrade your IT infrastructure, and integrate the PSTN switch-off into your wider digital transformation plans. The future is digital, and it’s time we all got on board.
FAQ
Q: Why is the UK’s Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) being switched off in 2025?
A: The UK’s PSTN is being switched off in 2025 due to the increased difficulties associated with maintaining the now-aged infrastructure.
Q: What will happen to businesses that still use older analogue phone lines?
A: Businesses that still use older analogue phone lines for voice services must migrate to digital-enabled communications.
Q: Are businesses making the necessary transition away from the PSTN network?
A: No, despite the urgency of the switch-off, 88% of UK businesses still currently have analogue services running on the PSTN network.
Q: What are the potential reasons for hesitancy towards moving away from the PSTN network?
A: Core services including alarm systems and legacy voice systems may rely on PSTN lines, which could be a reason for hesitancy.
Q: How can businesses ease their struggles in adopting new digital communication infrastructure?
A: Businesses can embrace the PSTN switch-off as part of their wider digital transformation strategy.
Q: How can digital transformation projects help in transitioning away from the PSTN network?
A: Digital transformation projects can ensure potential pain points are eased and make the transition to new digital infrastructure smoother.
Q: What are the benefits of transitioning away from the PSTN network?
A: Benefits include improved flexibility and increased technical capabilities such as call recording and call transcription.
Q: What should IT teams do to ensure compatibility with new digital solutions?
A: IT teams should undergo a full audit of their business’s entire suite of IT hardware to identify any compatibility issues in older devices.
Q: How can businesses ensure a seamless transition and future-proof their services?
A: By enlisting the support of dedicated service providers, businesses can receive technical knowledge and assistance to minimize any sticking points in their migration journeys.
Q: What can managed service providers offer to businesses during the migration process?
A: Managed service providers offer businesses a range of internet connectivity options and can help with every stage of the migration process.
Q: How can a specialist connectivity partner help businesses operate new digital solutions efficiently?
A: A specialist connectivity partner can educate the workforce on how to operate new digital solutions efficiently, ensuring maximum value from the investment.