Any business relies on technology to operate. With fast and reliable internet connections, strong mobile signals and advanced telecoms systems, it is possible to effectively communicate with customers and colleagues, suppliers and partners in a variety of ways. Any business that doesn’t have access to the latest technology is put at a disadvantage.
The accelerated rate at which digital technology has grown in recent years and our reliance on it has put great pressure on the capacity of copper based networks. The wide scale deployment of fibre (often referred to as Fibre to the Premises or FTTP) networks is being seen as the only way to address this and equip homes and businesses with what they need.
A recently released ‘Building Gigabit Britain Report’ compiled by leading UK businesses highlights the importance of a wide spread fibre network to the long term prospects of British business and the wider economy. As the population embraces advances in digital communications, wireless devices, remote working and competition in global markets, the need for fibre is obvious.
The Report highlights a number of ways in which the Government could, and in opinion of the authors should, support the roll out of a new fibre infrastructure. These include investing in a clear strategy that commits to 80% of the population having access to fast fibre broadband by 2026, with near universal coverage by 2030.
In regards to the regulations which currently govern the industry, it is noted that whilst some regulations help to protect customers, others are more of a hindrance to progress. It suggests that some of the financial barriers are removed and that current regulations are reworked in order to encourage both competition and collaboration from telecoms companies. This is seen as vital for innovation in communications and private investment in rolling out the fibre networks.
The report also raises the importance of advertising guidelines being enforced, so that clear and transparent information is available to the public. The success of many local economies could depend on the timely roll out of fibre and how the process is communicated and managed by local councils and telecoms companies.
Fast and Reliable Broadband
So, if fast and reliable broadband and embracing digital technology is so essential to the future of the British economy, how does it impact on your business? Did broadband speed influence your decision on where locate your business? Are you reliant on the roll out of fibre in order to realise the goals in your business plan?
Has fast reliable broadband enabled you to make the most of the latest business telecoms systems? If so, your employees could be as easy to contact (by you and your customers) whether they are at their desk, out at a business event, or working remotely. You could be saving time and money by conference calling partners and clients, rather than meeting in person. You can avoid missing that important call with voice mail and printed transcripts of the message.
Many companies haven’t upgraded their business telecoms in recent years, it simply hasn’t seemed like the top priority, but much like your IT, there can be significant benefits from streamlining procedures, increasing productivity and integrating one system with another.
Business Telecoms Systems
Your company may have to wait several years before fast and reliable fibre systems are in place, but you can give your operations an advantage by investing in the latest business telecoms systems. If your team are finding it increasingly difficult to manage the increasing volume of calls, or seasonal peaks, then this could be a sign that an upgrade is due.
Other indicators include issues with resolving problems with the system and the prohibitive challenges associated with adding new lines or integrating the phones with other technology. Whilst many Company Directors have concerns about the cost of an upgrade, the reality is that the latest business telecoms are often far more cost effective that older systems and can lead to considerable savings in the long term.
