As the copper switch-off approaches, many business customers expect their telephony providers to offer a 'like for like' IP voice solution. However, this is often not an option. It is crucial for business end-users to 'mind the gap' by thoroughly assessing their current setup and comparing it with the proposed new solution to understand any gaps in the new offering.

Understanding the Transition

The shift from copper to cloud voice or IP Voice systems is a significant change. While VoIP solutions offer numerous benefits, including advanced features and cost savings, they may not always replicate the exact functionality of traditional copper-based systems. This can lead to gaps in service that businesses need to be aware of.

Assessing Current and Proposed Solutions

To navigate this transition smoothly, businesses should conduct a comprehensive audit of their current telephony setup. This involves understanding how their existing phone system is used by their team, identifying critical features they rely on, and determining what they cannot live without. By doing so, they can better assess their resellers proposed VoIP solutions to identify any potential gaps.

The Role of Resellers

Resellers play a vital role in this process. They should communicate clearly with their customers, helping them understand the differences between their current system and the new VoIP or IP Voice solution. This includes highlighting any new features that may be beneficial, as well as any functionalities that may be lost in the transition.

Conducting a System Audit

Encouraging customers to conduct a system audit with their team is essential. This audit should focus on how their current telephony access services are used daily, what features are critical, and what aspects of the system are non-negotiable. Armed with this information, resellers can recommend the best approach that meets the specific needs of their end-user’s business.

Conclusion

The copper switch-off is an opportunity for businesses to upgrade to modern telephony solutions. However, it's important for end-users to 'mind the gap' by thoroughly assessing their current setup and the proposed new solution. Resellers should support their customers through clear communication and by suggesting a comprehensive system audit. You can find our overview of common pain points in our upcoming blog. This approach ensures that businesses can transition smoothly to VoIP while retaining the critical features they rely on the most.