We are aware that many of you are preparing budgets for the coming year at the moment and juggling finances but thought that the BT Network Switch Off was worth another mention as we are seeing increasing prices on Telecoms products across the market place which is only likely to get worse over the next couple of years. With this in mind, we would strongly recommend that you plan for the switch off to see if any phone system and line upgrades are required within your School or Multi Academy Trust. We anticipate that discussions around the ‘ISDN/PSTN switch off’ will continue to grow as the sale of these types of lines will cease in September this year and you will be forced to migrate these lines to new technology in 2025.
The ISDN/PSTN switch off has been planned as these traditional networks become more costly to maintain and struggle to support the advances that come with more modern technology.
Services that utilise PSTN and ISDN lines include traditional phone lines, alarm systems, Fax machines, lift phones and Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC) broadband connections so it is important to ensure they are moved to more modern solutions.
Q and A’s
Do you need to replace your phone system? Depending on the type of phone system you have installed and its age, you may not need to replace it. For salespeople to earn commission they need to sell and therefore are likely to tell you that your phone system needs replacing even if it doesn’t.
What type of phone system should you purchase? Systems can either be hosted (cloud) in data centres or installed in your school. Making the wrong choice for your School can be very costly.
What features do you require? Most telecom companies don’t understand the requirements of schools. Modern phone systems can provide “lockdown” solutions, call recording etc. Getting the right guidance is key to you making the right decision
Do Schools possess the required knowledge? School Business Leaders have very busy roles and lack the time required to fully understand the telecoms market.
What is the cost of making the wrong decision? The cost of making the wrong decision when upgrading or replacing a phone system can run in to the thousands.
We can audit your existing products and services and make recommendations on the alternatives available to you, and when these should be implemented. Our audit also includes looking at any cost savings that may be available. You can also use this opportunity to improve your existing systems and look at updated technology for your School.
Please call us on 01937 420052 or email info@tgesolutions.co.uk if you would like to have a chat about how our audit and procurement services can help you. We look forward to hearing from you and hope you all have a lovely Easter break!