The clock is ticking on the traditional Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). For years, we've been hearing about the impending digital switchover, and while the deadline has shifted, the fundamental change remains: traditional analogue phone lines are being phased out in favour of modern, internet-based alternatives. So, where are we now, and what does this mean for your business?
Progress on the Digital Switchover:
Significant progress has been made in building the infrastructure for the digital switchover. Openreach and other providers have been rolling out Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) at an accelerated pace, laying the foundation for a fully digital network. However, challenges persist.
- Infrastructure Gaps: While FTTP coverage is expanding, some rural and remote areas still face connectivity limitations. This poses a significant hurdle for businesses operating in these regions.
- Legacy Systems: Many businesses still rely on legacy systems that are incompatible with digital technologies. Alarm systems, payment terminals and even some fax machines may require upgrades or replacements.
- Awareness and Engagement: While awareness is growing, some businesses still lack a clear understanding of the switchover and its implications. This can lead to last-minute scrambles and potential disruptions.
What Options Are Available to Businesses?
The good news is that businesses have a range of options to upgrade their lines and prepare for the digital future.
- Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP): This is the most common and versatile solution. VoIP services use your broadband connection to make and receive calls, offering a wealth of features and flexibility.
- Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) Trunks: For businesses with existing Private Branch Exchange (PBX) systems, SIP trunks provide a digital connection to the PSTN, enabling cost-effective and scalable communications.
- Mobile Solutions: For businesses with mobile workforces, mobile solutions can provide a seamless and reliable communication platform.
- Specialised Solutions: For businesses that rely on legacy systems, specialised solutions may be required. These solutions can involve adapters, replacements or alternative technologies.
It is strongly advised that you assess your customer’s businesses and find out what options are available to them.
The Deadline Extension: A Welcome Respite, But Not a Delay to Action
The decision to extend the final switch-off deadline from December 2025 to January 2027 was a welcome move. It provides businesses with additional time to plan and implement their upgrades.
- Breathing Room: The extension offers valuable breathing room, particularly for businesses facing complex migrations or those located in areas with infrastructure challenges.
- Opportunity for Planning: It allows businesses to conduct thorough assessments of their existing systems, explore available options and develop comprehensive migration plans.
- Reduced Pressure: The extension helps to alleviate some of the pressure associated with the original deadline, reducing the risk of rushed and potentially costly decisions.
However, it's crucial to remember that the extension is not a delay to action. Businesses should use this additional time wisely to prepare for the inevitable switchover. Do not wait until 2026 to start the process.
Does the Channel Need Additional Support?
The channel plays a vital role in facilitating the digital switchover. To ensure a smooth transition, additional support may be required.
- Training and Education: Ongoing training and education programs are essential to equip channel partners with the knowledge and skills needed to support businesses through the migration process.
- Simplified Processes: Streamlining the migration process and providing clear and concise guidance can help to reduce complexity and improve efficiency.
- Financial Incentives: Financial incentives, such as grants or subsidies, can help to encourage businesses to upgrade their systems and support the channel in delivering these solutions.
- Clear and concise information: Openreach and other providers need to provide clear and concise information to the channel, and to businesses, in a timely manner.
- Support for specialised equipment: Many businesses rely on specialised equipment that uses the PSTN, such as alarms, and payment terminals. Clear guidance on how to migrate these devices is needed.
The PSTN switch off is a significant undertaking, but with careful planning and collaboration, businesses can navigate the transition successfully. By embracing digital technologies, businesses can unlock new opportunities and build a more resilient and future-proof communication infrastructure.
At Onecom Partners, we have a suite of options available to your customers from various suppliers such as Vodafone, BT and CityFibre. Speak to you Partner Business Manager today to discuss how we can get your customers switched over with no hassle.
