If you’re fond of your legacy phone system, there’s some good news: The big BT landline switch-off has been delayed – from 2024 to early 2027. But whether you like it or not, you’re going to have to make the switch to VoIP (a cloud-based phone system) sooner rather than later.
Why delay the inevitable when your business could be benefitting from a huge range of call management and customer experience features now?
Either way, you’ll need to prepare for the old landline switch-off at some point, so here’s a quick guide to help.
1. Assess Exactly How Your Business Will Be Affected by the UK Landline Switch-Off
Which devices in your business currently rely on traditional landlines? These may include desktop phones, alarms, payment terminals and entry systems. If you’re still using a fax machine, this will be affected too.
Make a list of all the devices and technologies affected, and use it to create a time-sensitive action plan. Of course, you could save yourself a lot of time and effort by asking a VoIP specialist to do all the hard work for you. But more about that later.
2. Find a VoIP Business Phone System in the UK
Get ahead of the UK landline switch-off by choosing a cloud-based VoIP business phone system that will give you all the features you need to compete in the new age of digital communication.
But be warned: There are dozens of VoIP companies in the UK right now, so do your research and look for a selection of key features.
- A fully customisable business phone system
- The ability to bring your existing numbers
- Competitive call rates
- A host of call management features such as call waiting, call logs, shared voicemail, call routing, and analytics
- Plug-and-play hardware
- Premium support
Once you have a quality cloud-based business phone system lined up, everything else should simply fall into place.
3. Make Sure Your Internet Connection Is Up to Scratch
Can your existing broadband setup cope with the demands of a sophisticated VoIP phone system? Reliable, high-speed internet access is essential if you want high-quality calls without interruptions every time.
VoIP systems rely entirely on internet bandwidth to transmit voice data, so a stable and fast connection is crucial. If your current broadband is slow or unreliable, you may experience dropped calls, poor audio quality, or even connection failures.
But here’s the good news: You can order a combined package that includes both broadband and VoIP.
4. Make Sure Your Hardware Is Up to Scratch
Make an inventory of your existing phone-connected hardware. Once you’ve done that, make a list of all the devices that aren’t compatible with cloud-based phone systems. You’ll need to replace them. Don’t worry if you don’t have a clue – that’s why you’re choosing a trusted VoIP provider!
If individuals in your business are going to access your VoIP system via their own personal mobiles, tablets, and laptops, it might be a good idea to assess them as well. Some older devices can struggle with the latest features.
5. Migrate Essential Services
Again, this might be something you want to ask your VoIP provider about. It’s not just phones that will be affected by the BT landline switch-off.
Security alarms, fire alarms, lift emergency lines, and payment terminals could be affected. The last thing you want is for any of these services to suddenly become unavailable when you make the switch, so prepare well in advance.
6. Train Your Team
This is another area in which your VoIP providers can play a pivotal role. There are literally hundreds of features included with the latest cloud-based phone systems. While a lot of people have already been introduced to at least some of these features, others may need a full “crash course”.
There will also need to be some one-on-one training for employees who are determined to use their private devices to make and receive calls. However, most features are exceptionally easy to use.
7. Make a Transition Plan
To ensure a smooth transition to a cloud-based or VoIP phone system, work with your provider to schedule the switch well ahead of the 2027 deadline. Early planning allows you to assess your business needs, choose the right system, and identify any required upgrades or equipment.
Coordinating with your provider will also help you avoid any last-minute issues and ensure the new system is set up properly without any disruption to your business communications.
Before fully disconnecting from landlines, it might be a good idea to test the new system thoroughly to ensure seamless operation. But don’t worry, you can leave all this nonsense to your chosen VoIP provider while you get on with running your business.
A well-planned transition will help avoid any communication gaps and ensure your business remains fully operational. And that’s what’s so great about choosing a company such as Sipalto to manage the transition. You don’t have to concern yourself with transition plans!
Bonus Step: Inform your landline provider that you’ll be switching off BEFORE the big switch-off! Otherwise, you could be left paying for a service you don’t need.
Ready for BT Switching Off Landlines?
The great landline switch-off will be complete by early 2027, but it’s important to note that the process will be phased. Check when your business will be affected by using a landline switch-off postcode checker. The earlier you make the switch to VoIP, the sooner you can begin utilising its features – many of which have the potential to deliver business growth and increased customer satisfaction. Contact the Sipalto team today to get started.
