Analogue telecare equipment is in the process of being replaced by digital technology due to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) being switched off and replaced with a digital Internet Protocol (IP) network. Therefore, it is important for those using analogue technology to begin their transition to digital telecare.
This journey is an opportunity for significant change, an opportunity to make transformational changes to the delivery of services to customers. Transformational change doesn’t happen overnight though, and with digital technology continuously evolving, it is important to make sure you consider a long-term partnership with your supplier, focussed around innovation.
Why are long-term partnerships important?
The need to establish strong, mutually beneficial relationships with partners is essential. When starting your digital transformation journey it is important to start building this partnership early, this will help assist you with planning for the future. Both you and your partner will be able to build your knowledge on digital products, changes, and create effective innovation to benefit each other.
With technology changing at an unprecedented pace, and legislation following it is challenging to keep up. Therefore, an effective partner in the space, who will have expertise and resources looking at the market developments constantly, can communicate relevant information with you. You can then provide the expertise on whether these technologies could benefit your customers.
Appello and Housing21 began their transition to digital telecare in 2014 and over the course of two years developed a digital solution, known as Smart Living Solutions, that catered specifically for Housing21 and became the UK’s leading digital telecare solution, utilised by many housing providers. This partnership has continued to thrive to this day.
Why is it important to create a partnership around innovation?
Innovation is key right now, finding the right digital method, idea, or product to work with is integral for any housing provider looking to switch their analogue telecare devices to digital.
Therefore, it is important to find a partner who will work with you in a collaborative way to innovate for the future. A partner who will share ideas and work with you to utilise technology to meet the specific needs of your organisation, now and in the future.
Consideration for a long-term partnership.
1. Choose suppliers that align with your values, vision and strategy.
What is important to you? Base your choice of supplier on what you deem to be the most important values.
2. Understand the suppliers needs.
What is important to them? Make sure you understand their ways of working and establish if that suits your organisation.
3. Maintain regular honest and transparent communication.
Keep in touch with your suppliers and schedule regular catch-ups to provide feedback for one another.
4. Work together.
A partnership in business is really a relationship, and with all relationships there needs to be joined up approach, compromises need to be made and everyone needs to feel valued.
