For more than a century, the UK has relied on the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) to manage phone calls. The PSTN, encompassing a complex network of telephone lines, satellite links, and switching centres, has been the backbone connecting callers when dialling specific phone numbers.
Dom Ryan from The Sustainable and Ethical Buying Bureau (SEBB) explains that they are a group of like-minded organisations that offers a range of services across communication and connectivity.
“By working together through group purchasing and shared resources we can offer a strong proposition to our customers, and they can enjoy the lower prices than if they were priced individually.
“One of the main fears and reasons to speak to us is that any service that gets a fault after 2025, it will not be fixed and if the organisation is still in a contract, they may be forced to pay of the rest of the contract AND take out a new working service so it’s essential to speak to us now to prepare for that eventuality.”
However, the emergence of internet calls, video conferencing, and online collaboration tools has outpaced the capabilities of the PSTN, making its maintenance increasingly challenging. As a response, the UK is set to phase out the PSTN by the end of 2025, ushering in a new era of telecommunications dominated by digital services, particularly Internet Protocol (IP) and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone systems.
Dom explains why it is imperative that businesses act now: “Acting promptly is crucial. We are currently assisting businesses and charitable organisations in transitioning to modern IP phone systems, leveraging fibre instead of the outdated copper wires used by the PSTN. The shift to IP calling not only consolidates phone service and internet access under one roof, reducing overall costs, but also brings additional benefits such as high-quality video conferencing and enhanced accessibility.
“Businesses that delay the transition may face more than just communication challenges. Alarm systems and emergency contact points, often reliant on PSTN, may become inoperable if not upgraded before 2025. Communication providers are aware of the widespread use of PSTN lines, but the responsibility for updating or replacing hardware lies with the customers.”
Preparing for the switch involves evaluating existing services, identifying needs, and creating an action plan. Small businesses may need new handsets and IT personnel familiarising themselves with phone service dashboards, while larger enterprises may require retiring outdated equipment and planning for new opportunities offered by IP technology.
To support businesses in this transition, SEBB’s Professional Services offer comprehensive planning and implementation, from the discovery phase to final on-site testing.
As part of their commitment to aiding businesses, they provide a free Telecoms and IT Services Health Check. This review includes a thorough audit of phones, mobiles, and connectivity, proposing tailored solutions for current and future needs.
The health check encompasses an analysis of current services, cost comparisons, quality and speed evaluations, hardware assessments, and maintenance agreement reviews.
The findings report provides a suitability report of current services, identifies potential cost savings, and offers recommendations for service changes to future-proof the organisation. An action plan outlines the implementation of recommendations along with timescales.
Dom concluded: “Taking these steps now ensures a smooth transition and avoids a stressful and costly transformation closer to the 2025 deadline.”
Under the SEBB Group is SwitchAid, Project Business Solutions and Cheap Charity Phone Deals. SwitchAid is a non-profit organisation that specialises in providing mobile, telecoms, and connectivity consultancy services tailored for charities and non-profit entities. 0191 303 9404. Project Business Solutions is an ethical business-to-business telecoms and technology consultancy committed to delivering customised solutions. Their goal is to ensure that their clients operate in the most effective manner possible, all whilst maintaining costeffectiveness. 0191 511 1153.
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