The Countdown to the Future: Navigating the PSTN Switch-Off

The impending PSTN switch-off bears a resemblance to the transition from analogue to digital TV broadcasting but with a striking difference in the level of awareness. When TVs went digital, the news was ubiquitous on TV and radio, and leaflets flooded through people’s doors. The government made significant efforts to spread the word and ensure a smooth transition. However, in the case of the PSTN switch-off, the awareness efforts are not as widespread.

It is primarily champions like Gamma, who actively participate in the Fit to Switch campaign, that are raising awareness of the potential service disruptions. With the national stop sell which started in September 2023, the 2027 deadline is fast approaching, leaving businesses with no safety net. To ensure business continuity, organisations must act now and partner with experts like Gamma to navigate the complex transformation ahead. The countdown is imminent, and preparation is the key to a successful transition.

Facing the Complexity

The PSTN switch-off is not just another IT project. It is a colossal migration in the telecoms industry, involving millions of lines and thousands of businesses. The complexity can be overwhelming, making it essential for businesses to understand the implications and plan accordingly. As we stand here today, we are running out of days until Openreach stops selling legacy products. But that’s just the beginning of the countdown.

The Compelling Dates

The two key dates to mark on your calendars were the (now passed) September 5th 2023 and the upcoming January 31st 2027. On September 5th, ISDN services extended to version 30 were longer be available for procurement or switching between service providers. But the real deadline is January 31st 2027—when those services will go dark, leaving sites without connectivity. We have until then to transform and migrate the 10 million services that Openreach plans to switch off. This may seem like a long time, but when you consider the number of transformations required, the clock is already ticking loudly.

Identifying Critical Elements

As you embark on your transformation journey, it’s crucial to identify the elements that can make or break your migration. These critical elements demand careful planning and consideration. Share these aspects with Gamma’s experts so they can be factored into the roadmap, ensuring that your transformation aligns with your business needs and priorities.

Creating an Effective Roadmap

Developing a roadmap to the future requires close collaboration with your third-party suppliers. Gamma can work with them to identify the most suitable transformation plan. Moreover, this is the perfect opportunity to evaluate your existing infrastructure and rationalize outdated components. Discard any legacy elements that are no longer needed, thus avoiding unnecessary headaches down the line.

Understanding Your Business Calendar

Transitioning to the next-generation communication landscape doesn’t happen in isolation. It’s crucial to consider other business-related events, such as budget cycles and contract renewals, which may impact the transformation process. Align your roadmap with these events to ensure a seamless journey to the future.

Skilled Project Management

Gamma’s dedicated project and program managers will take charge of overseeing the delivery of your transformation plan. With their expertise and support, you can be confident that the migration will proceed smoothly, with minimal disruptions to your operations.