Steps you can and should encourage customers to take, to make sure they’re ready for January 2027.
Having announced at the end of 2023 that it would temporarily pause non-voluntary, managed migrations, OpenReach by BT has recently (May 2024) announced that the PSTN switch off will be delayed until January 2027. This follows pressure from campaign groups, who expressed concern that telecare devices, used by 1.8m elderly and vulnerable people, will not work if the internet goes down.
Compounding the issue is the fact that, as of December 2023, nearly half of businesses were unaware that it was even happening, and almost three quarters were yet to complete essential migration tasks. That’s a lot of businesses that will need consultancy and implementation to ensure they’re not caught short when the time comes.
Every phone line and broadband connection in the UK will need to rely on internet protocol (IP) across technologies other than copper, this includes ISDN, ADSL and even FTTC. So whether your customers are in the midst of preparing for the transition, or this is going to be brand new information to them, here are some steps you can and should encourage them to take to make sure they’re ready for January 2027.
Stay informed
Stay up to date with news and announcements regarding the new timeline for the PSTN switch-off. Reliable sources include Ofcom's website or your service provider.
Review existing setups
Assess their current infrastructure to understand which services and devices rely on PSTN. This will include things like landlines, emergency lift lines, fax machines, alarm systems, and any other devices connected to traditional phone lines.
Plan for migration
Research providers, evaluate existing connections and make sure they can handle VoIP services - there’ll be a whole lot more data running through it so they may need to upgrade your bandwidth. Consider hardware too, incompatible equipment will need to be replaced with VoIP-compatible devices.
Test and prep
If possible, encourage them to start testing VoIP solutions now. Set up a test line to start to familiarise yourself with the technology, align processes and troubleshoot any issues before the full migration. Also make sure their team is familiar with and ready to use the new systems.
Look further forward
Don’t let them panic buy for January 2027, take the long view. Look for scalable solutions that can grow with their business, alongside yours. As data use grows, you’ll want to ensure that connectivity can handle the increased traffic. While the switch off provides a good talking point for you to intro new solutions, it’s a good time to consider their internet and managed services more holistically.
To discuss how we can help you prepare customers for the PSTN switch off, and create a plan for January 2027 and beyond, get in touch.
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