The date for BT’s ISDN line switch off is looming ever closer. From 2023 there will be no new ISDN line installations. In 2025 BT will switch off both ISDN and PSTN services entirely as they move towards an entirely IP-based model of voice communication.
Despite the switch-off being reported for several years, many organisations are still yet to take action. A recent study carried out by BT, Cisco and Gamma found that 52% of businesses are aware of the ISDN switch off but are yet to act.
Although this suggests many organisations are hesitant to move away from ISDN, there are many benefits to adopting a VoIP telephony system.
The Future of Work
Over the past few years, how we work has changed immensely. “Work” is no longer seen as a place you go, but as a job you do.
As the working world continues to become more mobile and flexible, the days of the traditional in-office desk worker are waning, in favour of a more remote, collaborative workforce. This change in attitude is requiring businesses to evolve everything from their management styles to their office spaces and technology offerings.
More and more employees are splitting their time between office environments and home-working, therefore UK businesses are having to invest in more flexible modes of communication such as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP).
Unlike legacy ISDN lines that are tied to specific desk phones, VoIP technology allows users to make voice calls using only an internet connection.
VoIP provides seamless usage integration between desk phones and mobile phones, allowing for flexible working patterns and freeing employees from their desks.
5 Advantages of VoIP for Business Owners
As well as offering benefits for employees, VoIP also provides business owners with many much-heralded benefits; from improved affordability to increased functionality and scalability.
Here are 5 benefits of VoIP that will aid business owners:
1. Cost-Saving
Outdated services, such as ISDN lines, are not only frustrating to upgrade, but also incredibly expensive to maintain. Facilitating calls over the internet removes the need for physical on-premise infrastructure. This reduces the overall cost of telephony installations.
VoIP systems also mean lower monthly bills. Traditional phone services typically incur monthly fees for physical phone lines, as well as per minute call charges. These costs can easily mount up, especially for businesses that make a lot of international phone calls. VoIP phone systems leverage the internet rather than physical phone lines, making them much less expensive.
2. Increased Caller Satisfaction
VoIP systems allow for call stacking and personalised messages, ensuring callers don’t receive frustrating engaged tones. This means callers have the informed choice of waiting to be answered or to call at a later time. Importantly, this removes the need for constant redialling, which often leads to improved customer satisfaction.
3. Improved Remote Working
You’ll also be better placed to facilitate remote working with a VoIP solution. Many VoIP systems are delivered via a soft phone client or desktop application, which can be engaged from anywhere. There is no need for a physical connection or handset.
Internet phone systems can also be managed via a simple management portal that provides a level of self-service for call management, number allocation, and other helpful features such as analytics and call recordings.
4. Better Managed Workloads
VoIP analytics features measure and record call volumes, providing you with a detailed insight into the demands on your business. Comprehensive reports allow you to better manage your staffing levels and ensure reception staff can meet demands when required.
5. Increased Flexibility
A VoIP based phone system delivers unprecedented levels of flexibility when compared to a more traditional ISDN system. New lines can be implemented within minutes, and the service can be scaled up and down as needed to meet the demands of your business.
Why Direct Voice & Data?
With over 35 years’ experience of catering for businesses of all sizes, we offer end-to-end telephone systems and IT solutions. We provide a unique way of working that allows us to assess your needs, present bespoke solutions and provide dedicated support.
Our VoIP solutions are fully loaded with a host of premium PBX features that previously we’ve only been able to offer with on-premise hardware.
To book your free VoIP assessment with our expert team please call 0800 84 999 84. Alternatively, please email enquiries@directvoiceanddata.com.
