Switch-on now to the big analogue switch-off, says IT and comms expert

The Technical Director of an East Midlands managed service provider has warned businesses should act now ahead of a seismic change on the way in 2025.

James Cartwright, Technical Director of Ilkeston-based IDT, says the impending BT switch off next year will see the end of traditional copper-based telephone lines and broadband services provided by all suppliers.

This transition is part of a broader industry shift towards more advanced and efficient digital technologies.

James said: “The switch off of BT's legacy services will mean migrating old telephone lines, broadband packages, and legacy devices to alternative solutions, for example state-of-the-art VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol).”  This transition may seem daunting, but it also presents an opportunity for businesses to take advantage of modern, more reliable, and cost-effective telecommunications solutions.

He added: "While this transition will pose challenges, handled properly, it means businesses can benefit from better connectivity, flexible service packages, reduced costs, as well as improving productivity, remote working, and customer relations, all while future-proofing their operations. Furthermore, it presents a perfect opportunity for businesses to reassess their entire telecommunications spend, as outdated services often linger incurring charges”

The BT switch off in 2025 represents “a significant milestone in the evolution of telecommunications” James said.

The company has offered some top-tips:
Don’t leave it until later

• If you don’t do anything, then your analogue phone will stop working in 2025.
• Get expert advice and plan ahead. Costs for this type of technical shift tend to increase as demand and urgency increase and deadlines approach.

Embrace VoIP:

• Instigating a smooth transition to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is key.
• VoIP telephone solutions provide superior functionality and reliability compared to traditional phone systems. Not only are VoIP solutions more cost-effective, but they also offer advanced features such as call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, and seamless integration with other business applications.

Don’t go it alone.

• Lean on your managed service provider and get an expert by your side.
• Every business is unique, which is why your managed service provider should offer a personalised approach to customer support. Business owners should look for a dedicated team who will be on hand to answer any questions, provide ongoing assistance throughout the transition process, and to ensure that your business experiences minimal disruption.

Tailor it

• Ask your managed service provider to assess your current telecommunications setup and devise a tailored migration plan that meets your specific needs and requirements.
• Your current service contracts could be out of date, so this is the perfect time to analyse and refresh your service agreement and potentially save money.
• Understand the cost implications, prepare, and budget.

Embrace digital. Stay human.

• The power of human interaction and face-to-face communication shouldn’t be underestimated, it’s how you achieve a bespoke service for your business in today’s digital world.
• Industry-wide changes like the BT Switch off can be tricky to handle by yourself.
• Have someone you trust by your side to manage the changes, liaise with previous and new suppliers, and for the ongoing management.
• Insist on on-site consultations to discuss your specific needs and address any concerns you may have. Your managed service provider's goal should be to ensure that when the cut-off day arrives, it comes and goes without any issues for your business