Time marches on, and the upcoming Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) Switch-Off still looms large
Now set for the end of 2027, the PSTN Switch-Off marks the end of an era for traditional fixed telephone networks, urging businesses to adapt swiftly to avoid disruption. With this in mind, we thought we’d pick the brains of a couple of our Gamma experts as to what this really means – and why it’s more important than ever for you to be aware of the risks and ramifications.
The unseen impact of the PSTN Switch-Off
The PSTN Switch-Off is ostensibly a telecommunications issue, yes, but it also extends far beyond just this sphere, impacting various critical systems embedded in daily operations. Steven Lowe, Gamma’s Director of Mobile, highlights the breadth of this impact: “It’s quite nerve-wracking that so many businesses aren’t even aware there’s going to be a Switch-Off, which can fundamentally impact their operations.”
This change affects a wide range of systems, from alarms and payment terminals to door entry systems and emergency lines. Rob Kittler, Gamma’s Head of Connectivity Practice, adds to this, noting, “We often think of PSTN as traditional phone lines in offices or homes. But a significant portion is used in things like alarms, payment terminals, and other critical systems that we take for granted but will need replacing.”
Alarmingly low awareness levels
Despite the impending deadline, awareness among businesses remains startlingly low. According to a CEBR report commissioned by Gamma, a staggering 78% of micro businesses (1 to 9 employees) are unaware of the Switch-Off. Awareness is slightly better among small businesses (10 to 49 employees) at 52%, and medium-sized businesses (50 to 249 employees) at 65%. However, even in very large businesses (250+ employees), only 66% are aware of the Switch-Off.
Rob points out the critical need for awareness: “Partners need to talk to their end customers, conduct audits to understand current setups, and ensure alternative plans are in place to replace PSTN connectivity.” Steven echoes this sentiment, emphasising, “As an industry, we’ve been quite vocal about this over the last couple of years. Despite this, the awareness levels are stark.”
Proactive planning and audits: the path forward
The transition from PSTN to alternative connectivity solutions is urgent, particularly in sectors where it can be a matter of life and death. Steven stresses the importance of proactive planning: “Partners should make customers aware repeatedly. Time is running out, and it’s better to plan calmly than rush at the last minute.”
Conducting thorough audits is a crucial first step in this process. Businesses need to understand what systems are connected by which mechanisms and establish projects to address these issues. Rob advises, “Customers need to audit their systems, understand what’s connected by what mechanism, and establish projects to address these issues. Partners should come and talk to us; we have solutions to help.”
Gamma’s solutions for a seamless transition
Gamma offers various solutions to help businesses navigate this transition smoothly. Their voice over IP solution, Horizon, and various UCaaS plug-ins and add-ons are designed to replace the outgoing PSTN connectivity. Additionally, Gamma’s PhoneLine+ can move PSTN numbers to mobile devices as softphones, while their Simple Swap service helps migrate PSTN numbers efficiently.
Rob elaborates on the available solutions: “For PSTN numbers, we have PhoneLine+, which can move a PSTN number to a mobile device as a softphone. We also offer Simple Swap for migrating PSTN numbers to PhoneLine+.” Steven adds, “For other peripherals like alarms and payment terminals, our SIM cards can help, but customers should also contact their hardware providers for future-proof solutions.”
The importance of continuous communication
Ensuring continuous communication with customers is paramount to mitigate last-minute issues. Rob advises, “It’s crucial to talk to customers, understand their billing and PSTN arrangements. The Switch-Off is closer than it seems. It’s vital to plan, assess, and communicate with customers to mitigate last-minute issues.”
Steven reinforces this message, urging partners to leverage Gamma’s resources: “We’ve been vocal about this at Gamma, with dedicated websites and marketing channels informing people of our solutions. Partners should ensure their customers are aware of the Switch-Off. Customers need to conduct audits and establish plans to replace PSTN connectivity.”
Embracing the opportunity to future-proof
While the Switch-Off presents challenges, it also offers a unique opportunity to future-proof business setups. Transitioning to more advanced and reliable connectivity solutions can enhance operational efficiency and resilience. Steven concludes with an optimistic outlook: “This is a significant opportunity to future-proof customer setups. We’re all in this together. See this as an opportunity to future-proof customers.”
As the PSTN Switch-Off approaches, the urgency for businesses to act cannot be overstated. By raising awareness, conducting thorough audits, and leveraging advanced connectivity solutions, businesses can navigate this transition smoothly and emerge stronger in the digital age.