Discover the benefits of moving from an analogue to a fully digital network, and how you can kick-start your move with BT.
Discover the benefits of moving from an analogue to a fully digital network, and how you can kick-start your move with BT.
In our rapidly changing world, future-proofing organisations is a necessity. It’s exactly why the UK government has mandated the switch-off of the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network), which requires organisations to transition from outdated legacy infrastructure to IP (Internet Protocol) technology before 2025.
Put simply, the PSTN is unable to support the digital tools and services needed today. For the public sector, this presents an exciting opportunity to improve operations and achieve strategic goals.
In this blog, we’ll explain the benefits of moving from an analogue to a fully digital network, and how you can kick-start your move with the support of BT.
Public sector organisations face unique challenges, such as a shortage of nurses and doctors in healthcare, and budget cuts at local councils – all whilst there is increased demand for services.
It’s no surprise our recent survey showed over a third of councils and healthcare organisations consider future-proofing a top three priority. To do this, organisations need to execute a strategy that focuses on innovation and efficiency.
That said, many public sector organisations are yet to realise the benefits of going fully digital, with only 4% of councils having started moving their systems to the cloud or a digital phone line. IP technology enables simplified communications, faster speeds and more reliable connectivity which, in turn, can enhance public services.
For example, the NHS has, in part, demonstrated a successful migration to IP technology and is embracing digital healthcare delivery and enhanced communications through IP-based communication systems such a video conferencing. It’s part of a new digital strategy which allows healthcare professionals to provide better patient care, reduce waiting times, and improve patient satisfaction.
While IP technology alone cannot solve all the pressures placed on the public sector, it certainly accommodates the changing needs of organisations and can improve both staff and community experiences.
According to our survey, 68% of public sector organisations won't start moving their communications to the cloud or a digital voice solution for at least another five months. Naturally, cost control is a barrier. But as we mentioned, investment in IP technology is one that will quickly pay for itself in terms of collaboration, efficiency and improved operations.
Another barrier is friction between business leaders and IT managers. In fact, councils in particular were the least aligned sector in terms of who is driving the switch to IP technology. 43% of council leaders believe they are responsible, but 43% of IT managers claimed their teams were in charge.
To overcome this, public sector organisations need to have a clear strategy that involves collaboration between business leaders and IT managers and outlines objectives, identifies potential roadblocks, and sets timelines for adoption.
But you don’t have to do it alone – BT is here to support you no matter what stage of the IP journey you are at.
According to our survey, 68% of public sector organisations won't start moving their communications to the cloud or a digital voice solution for at least another five months.
While 79% of council organisational leaders believe that moving to IP solutions will be easy, it's important to recognise that the switch to IP technology requires careful planning, execution, and ongoing management.
That’s why BT is committed to working together with public sector organisations. Armed with a team of migration specialists, BT’s Professional Services and on-site engineers can lead customers through each stage of the migration.
Escalating the project and collaborating internally and externally with experts will not only minimise disruption but give organisations time to enjoy the benefits of IP solutions sooner rather later – and, ultimately, prepare for the next generation of public sector technology.
From a full audit of customers’ existing estate – including alarm systems and fax machines – to enrolling the most appropriate solution for the move, BT is here to help.
In fact, we have over 20 specialist migration engineers to support organisations with their move and customers each have dedicated account managers who work with specialists to ensure a smooth transition.
From a full audit of customers’ existing estate – including alarm systems and fax machines – to enrolling the most appropriate solution for the move, BT is here to help.
In fact, we have over 20 specialist migration engineers to support organisations with their move and customers each have dedicated account managers who work with specialists to ensure a smooth transition.
From a full audit of customers’ existing estate – including alarm systems and fax machines – to enrolling the most appropriate solution for the move, BT is here to help.
In fact, we have over 20 specialist migration engineers to support organisations with their move and customers each have dedicated account managers who work with specialists to ensure a smooth transition.
From a full audit of customers’ existing estate – including alarm systems and fax machines – to enrolling the most appropriate solution for the move, BT is here to help.
In fact, we have over 20 specialist migration engineers to support organisations with their move and customers each have dedicated account managers who work with specialists to ensure a smooth transition.
Businesses that embrace the new standard will benefit from several improvements over legacy networks.
From the Netherlands to Singapore, UK organisations can learn lessons from forward-thinking countries and make the PSTN switchover as seamless as possible.
