The Two-Year Extension of the PSTN/ISDN Switch-Off: Implications for the Telecoms Channel
The telecommunications industry has been abuzz with the recent announcement of a two-year extension to the planned switch-off of Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) services. Originally slated for 2025, this postponement to 2027 presents a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities for the telecoms channel. In this blog post, we will explore the effects of this extension on the telecoms sector, the associated risks of supporting legacy equipment longer, and the benefits it provides to organisations and the channel at large.
The Immediate Effects on the Telecoms Channel
Operational Continuity and Customer Retention
The extension provides telecom providers with an additional two years to manage the transition from legacy systems to IP-based communications. This can help maintain customer retention by giving businesses more time to adapt to the changes without the pressure of an impending deadline.
Extended Revenue Streams
For companies still reliant on PSTN/ISDN, the delay means continued revenue from these services. This extension can be a financial boon for telecom providers as they can continue to offer maintenance and support for legacy systems.
Safety for Vulnerable People
One of the most significant immediate benefits of the extension is the short-term safety it provides to vulnerable individuals who rely on analogue systems. Many elderly or disabled people use devices like emergency alarms and medical alert systems that depend on PSTN/ISDN networks. The extension ensures these critical services remain uninterrupted, safeguarding those who are most at risk.
Risks of Supporting Legacy Equipment Longer
Increased Maintenance Costs
Supporting outdated technology is not without its drawbacks. Legacy systems often require more frequent maintenance, and finding parts can be increasingly difficult and expensive. Telecom providers might face escalating costs to keep these systems operational.
Security Vulnerabilities
Older systems are potentially more susceptible to security threats.
Delay in Technological Advancement
The extension might inadvertently delay the adoption of more advanced IP-based technologies. Organisations might defer decisions to upgrade, preferring to stick with their existing, albeit outdated, infrastructure.
Benefits to Organisations and the Channel
Extended Planning and Budgeting Time
For many organisations, the primary benefit of the extension is additional time to plan and allocate budgets for the transition to IP-based systems. This is especially beneficial in a time of economic uncertainty where capital expenditure might be under tight scrutiny.
Smoother Transition
The extended deadline allows for a more gradual and planned migration. Companies can take a phased approach to upgrade, reducing the risk of operational disruptions.
Opportunity for Resellers and Integrators
Resellers and system integrators can leverage this period to better prepare their offerings and solutions. They can engage in more comprehensive planning with their clients, ensuring a smoother transition when the time finally comes to switch off the legacy systems.
Channel Partner Strategies
Repair and Inventory Management With the extended period, channel partners must offer to maintain legacy systems for a longer period than originally forecasted. This ensures that businesses can continue to operate efficiently without immediate upgrades and helps ensure customer retention. By partnering with Multimessage to support all hardware within customer estates, channel partners can retain customers and foster loyalty.
Promoting Sustainability Maintaining and repairing legacy equipment rather than pushing for immediate upgrades can promote sustainability. By extending the lifespan of existing hardware, the telecoms channel can reduce electronic waste and contribute to environmental conservation efforts.
The two-year extension of the PSTN/ISDN switch-off offers a reprieve for many organisations and presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges for the telecoms channel. While the risks associated with supporting legacy equipment cannot be ignored, the benefits of extended planning, enhanced customer retention, and potential for innovation present a positive outlook. Additionally, the extension secures the short-term safety of vulnerable individuals relying on analogue systems, highlighting a crucial social benefit. Channel partners can also leverage this period to provide essential repair and inventory management services, promoting sustainability and retaining customers. The telecoms sector must use this time wisely to ensure a smooth, secure, and efficient transition to IP-based communications in the future.
Get in touch today if you need support for any telecoms/network equipment.
customerservice@multimessage.co.uk
01707644480
