The UK is on the brink of a significant technological shift that will impact business (and personal) users across the network. By the 31 January 2027, the traditional analogue phone network, known as the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), will be completely phased out for making voice calls. Is your business ready for the switch?

This change, often referred to as the “digital switchover,” will affect everyone who still relies on traditional landline phones. Whether your company has already embraced Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology or is still using analogue systems, it’s crucial to understand what this switch-off means and how to prepare for it.

The digital switchover: what is it?

The digital switchover involves moving all communications from the old copper-based analogue systems to a modern, internet-based digital systems. This change is happening partly because of an ageing copper telephone network – some of which dates back to the 19th century – and also because of a government obligation to provide fast and reliable broadband and mobile data to enable people and businesses to fully participate in society. The new system will use VoIP technology, which transmits voice calls over the internet rather than through copper wires.

The VoIP impact on businesses
There are both positives and negatives when it comes to switching from the old to the new. Here are the main points to understand:

The positives:

• Great features out of the box: Digital phone systems offer advanced features like call routing, voicemail-to-email, hunt groups, incoming and outgoing call data and integration with many customer databases (CRMs)
• More flexibility: VoIP systems allow for working from home, working from the office or even working from a different country (so long as they have good Wi-Fi). Calls can be made and received from anywhere
• Potential cost savings: While there’s an initial investment, digital systems can lead to long-term savings on call costs, especially for international communications
• Scalability: As your business grows, your digital system will be able to flex up or down with you without the need for extensive hardware changes.

The challenges:

• You don’t really have a choice: By 31 January 2027, all businesses must make the switch to a digital phone. This is not optional, and failing to do so could result in a loss of telephone service
• Potential disruption: Without proper planning, the transition could lead to temporary communication disruptions, affecting customer service and internal operations
• Additional costs: While there are long term cost savings, upgrading to the digital system will require an initial investment in new equipment
• Training: Although the new VoIP systems are designed to be easy to use, and you should have the support of your telecoms company, staff may need training to use new digital phone systems effectively and efficiently.

Preparation steps

Here are the top three points you might like to consider to prepare your business for the change:

1. Audit current systems: Go around your business and identify all devices and systems that rely on a telephone line – don’t forget fax machines, alarms, lift emergency phones and payment systems
2. Do your research: Contact business phone system providers to discuss options for transitioning to digital systems or... speak to your dedicated Regency Procurement Manager if you would like us to explore options on your behalf - we work with only the best telecoms providers
3. Budget: Once you’ve done your research, plan for the costs associated with new equipment and potential upgrades

And a bonus point – if you’re a large, or complicated business, you could consider a phased implementation where you transition site by site over a period of time to minimise any potential disruption to day-to-day business.

The Road to 2027

While January 2027 may seem a long way away, the transition is already happening. Openreach, the UK’s main telecommunications network provider, stopped selling new analogue services back in 2023.

You could also consider this a chance to not just do what needs to be done, but to review your entire communication systems and strategy. Digital technology provides businesses with tech that analogue never did and there may be opportunities to improve your operational efficiency and customer service.

If you would like to discuss the switch and/or your telecom requirements, please reach out to your Regency Procurement Manager who will be able to research the options and best prices available to your business.

Source: First Class Comms