We all know that D-Day for the ISDN switch off is fast approaching…so the question is…What are you doing about it?
In 2015 BT boldly announced its intention to switch off its PSTN and ISDN networks by 2025. There intention is to move its entire voice network to voice over IP (VoIP), with a gradual phase-out of the older systems starting in 2020.
In Short, by 2020 you will no longer be able to order ISDN services and will be left with just two options:
1. Upgrade your existing system onto SIP lines
2. Migrate to cloud telephony systems
Upgrading your existing system onto SIP lines
SIP Trunks are a powerful, scalable and highly flexible form of telephony that connect your premises directly to the Public Telephone Network (PSTN) via IP/broadband. Similar to traditional ISDN, you will have a phone system on site, but your calls will route through the Internet via SIP trunks.
One of the most significant advantages of SIP trunking is its ability to combine data, voice and video in a single line, eliminating the need for separate lines of physical media. The result is reduced overall cost and enhanced reliability for these services.
If you can upgrade your phone system to support SIP, you will only need to find a SIP Trunk provider. However, some telephone systems do not support SIP, and these will be rendered useless when BT withdraws ISDN. In this instance, you will need to look at investing in a new premises-based SIP PBX phone system. Or you could take advantage of the opportunity to move to a Cloud base phone system.
Migrating to a Cloud Telephone System
A Cloud Phone system gives you everything a traditional phone system does but without the huge investment in telephone equipment. In fact, the entire Cloud-based telephone system is operated and maintained by your Voice-over-IP (VoIP) service provider.
Cloud also offers your business much more in terms of flexibility and added features. The only requirement for a Cloud phone system is a good Internet connection.
Cloud allows you to integrate your business mobiles with your fixed lines. Callers will only need to dial one number to reach your desk phone and mobile phone simultaneously. With a shared voicemail box for both. Be it a smartphone, laptop, or desktop, making it much more flexible than a traditional landline. You can easily direct and redirect calls using your work telephone number. This means that if you are out of the office or working from home your customers will never know. Making it the perfect technology if you have remote workers or employees who travel frequently.
If your current traditional telephony contract is up for renewal within the next few years, now is the time to start exploring the benefits of Cloud and SIP technologies. Whichever options you choose, IP telephony is the future of business telecoms. It allows you to cut down on communication costs whilst enjoying a rich communication experience.
To find out more about how Cloud business telephone systems could help you save money and improve customer communication, contact us today on 0800 505 3350. Alternatively, visit our Cloud Phone Systems page with an extensive range of fixed and mobile telephony capabilities to suit your business.
