30 01732 759725 ...continued SWITCH-OFF of the challenge and are getting feedback first-hand from suppliers, partners and customers on the challenges it is creating. Primarily these are around educating the market on the need for and benefits of moving to digital, and the resources needed to facilitate that change. “Gamma’s strategy and messaging has consistently been that this is biggest opportunity the industry has seen in a generation. This is about the Digital Switch ON, and we have invested heavily to promote this and support partners in facilitating the change. As anyone who has seen Morph and/or our involvement as a National Champion in the Fit to Switch Campaign can see, this is a position we have wholeheartedly embraced because we recognise the benefits in supporting businesses as they move from legacy technology to digital alternatives. “We cautiously welcome the announcement on the basis that it will provide: n More time for industry engagement and to overcome market apathy; n More comprehensive penetration of the full fibre footprint to support digital delivery; and n Greater opportunity to implement solutions to problems where digital is challenging - specifically critical care. “As one of the UK’s leading digital solutions providers, we already have the products and services to enable businesses to re-imagine the way in which they communicate with their customers and this decision does delay the catalyst needed to move to future-proof services such as PhoneLine+, Connectivity & UCaaS solutions. That said, it is important to note that exchanges will continue to be turned off and that the new 2027 date is simply an extension of the ‘end of the line’. “Given the multiple and competing interests within the industry, a strong, independent steer from Government would be welcome to support the urgent need to amplify awareness and take action across both consumer and business markets.” Paul Taylor, CCO, Voiceflex “We understand the complexities and challenges associated with transitioning from traditional PSTN lines to IP-based systems. While the extension of the BT switch-off deadline to 2027 may not come as a complete surprise, it underscores the importance of readiness and adaptability in the communications sector. Through our My IP Voice product, which offers a PSTN line replacement, we future proof businesses ensuring they don’t lose their voice services. “We believe this extension offers a crucial opportunity for those who have been hesitant to make the switch to reassess their strategies and take proactive steps towards IP-based services.” Adrian Barnard, Co-founder, FitToSwitch "I'm pleased to see BT being more realistic and welcome the announcement of a delay in the 'switch off'. I and FitToSwitch have been campaigning for greater awareness of the opportunities for UK PLC that a 'connectivity upgrade' presents and pushed Openreach for clarity on this matter recently. “That our message, that of the Independent TMT sector, has been recognised is testament to the power of including those with vulnerabilities, Espria has proactively prepared its customers, always encouraging an earlier transition to give businesses an advantage in both efficiency and cost benefits. This extension will likely have minimal impact on our clients, as most of our comms customers have transitioned from traditional PSTN lines to VoIP well ahead of schedule, with only 16% left to move. “Even with the extended deadline, there will always be businesses that wait until the last minute. We encourage all businesses to manage their switch sooner rather than later for immediate business benefits. We offer a variety of solutions tailored to specific business needs for a smooth switch regardless of this revised timeline. “Clear and consistent communication from BT is essential to ensure a successful transition for businesses and consumers. This must include detailed information on the revised timeline, potential impacts and the benefits of the digital switch to sway those still on the fence. Additionally, targeted support programs for all those needing assistance would be valuable.” Paul Wakefield, Head of Product Management, Product Solutions, Gamma “As much as I’d like to say the announcement of the delay came as a surprise, that would be stretching the truth. That’s not because we have specific insight into the workings of the BT Group/ Openreach Boardroom, but simply because we understand the size and scale Adrian Barnard Paul Taylor Paul Wakefield
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