The Importance of Modern Telephony Systems in Schools
Effective communication is essential to every school’s daily operations, from coordinating staff to addressing parents’ concerns and managing emergencies. However, many schools are still using outdated, on-premise telephony systems that may be both costly and inefficient.
At Tech-IP, we understand the unique challenges schools face when it comes to telephony. Our modern, cloud-based systems provide flexible, scalable, and secure solutions tailored to meet the needs of today’s educational institutions. Let’s look at some of the common challenges schools face with telephony, and how we can help overcome them.
Migrating from On-Premise to Cloud-Based Telephony
One of the most significant hurdles for schools is migrating from an on-premise system to a cloud-based telephony system. Many schools have relied on physical systems for years, which often creates a sense of familiarity. However, traditional systems require extensive support, physical infrastructure, and maintenance, making them both time-consuming and expensive.
Moving to the cloud eliminates these burdens. With Tech-IP’s cloud telephony solutions, schools no longer need to worry about maintaining on-site hardware or paying for line rentals. Our cloud-based systems are not only more flexible but also ensure better reliability and scalability as your school grows.
Budgetary Challenges: From One-Time Costs to Recurring Payments
Schools that have historically invested in on-premise systems are often used to paying for support or line rentals while owning the physical system. Shifting to a cloud-based model introduces a new payment structure: recurring monthly costs based on the number of users. This can be a significant adjustment for many schools.
However, the shift to monthly payments provides greater long-term savings. By moving to Tech-IP’s cloud-based solution, schools only pay for what they use, eliminating the hefty costs associated with upgrading and maintaining physical equipment. Additionally, this model offers greater transparency and control over expenses, as costs scale with the school’s needs.
Staff Mindset: Adjusting to Softphones Over Physical Handsets
One of the challenges when upgrading telephony systems in schools is staff hesitation around using new technology. Teachers and administrative staff are often accustomed to physical desk phones, and switching to a softphone system—where calls are made through a computer or mobile device using a headset—can take some getting used to.
At Tech-IP, we provide training and ongoing support to ensure a smooth transition. Softphones are not only more flexible, allowing staff to work from anywhere within the school, but they also reduce reliance on hardware. Once staff experience the mobility and convenience of softphones, they quickly see the benefits.
Cost-Saving Benefits: Replacing Walkie-Talkies with Softphones
Many schools still use radios or walkie-talkies for internal communication between staff members. However, these devices are often outdated, expensive, and limited in functionality. By using softphones via WiFi, staff can use their mobile phones to communicate, negating the need for a separate walkie-talkie system.
This solution not only simplifies communication but also saves schools money by reducing the need for additional devices. With WiFi-enabled softphones, teachers and staff can communicate more efficiently across the campus, whether they’re in classrooms, the playground, or the office.
The Big Switch-Off: Ensuring Compliance for Lift Lines
A major concern for schools when upgrading their telephony systems is the “big switch-off.” Many on-premise systems, especially those with dedicated lift lines, will soon become obsolete due to the switch-off of traditional telephone lines. Schools with lifts will need to ensure they comply with regulations by upgrading to digital alternatives.
Tech-IP provides telephony solutions that seamlessly replace traditional lift lines with cloud-based alternatives, ensuring compliance with legal requirements while improving overall communication across the school.
Why Tech-IP’s Cloud Telephony Solutions Are Right for Your School
As schools face increasing demands for modern, reliable communication systems, upgrading to a cloud-based telephony solution is no longer optional—it’s essential. From handling high call volumes to ensuring staff can communicate seamlessly using softphones, our systems offer the flexibility and security schools need.
By migrating to a cloud-based system with Tech-IP, your school will benefit from:
- Seamless scalability: Add or remove users and features as needed.
- Cost savings: Only pay for what you need, with no unexpected maintenance or hardware costs.
- Improved mobility: Staff can communicate using their mobile devices via WiFi, eliminating the need for additional devices like walkie-talkies.
- Regulatory compliance: Ensure your lift lines are up-to-date with the latest telephony regulations.
- Ongoing support: Training and support to ensure a smooth transition for all staff.
📞 Phone: 0345 389 2310
📧 Email: enquiries@tech-ip.co.uk
