The UK telecoms upgrade is well underway and will have a significant impact on those with existing analogue telecare services. A move from analogue to digital telecare has many advantages including, mitigating the risk of first-time call failures, removing call queues, dual speech as opposed to the walkie-talkie style communication and so much more. But there are things to consider when moving to digital and making an informed decision about your digital upgrade.
1. Priorities
What are your organisations main priorities when moving to a digital telecare system?
For example:
– Enhance safety
– Provide better building and personal security
– Interoperate with existing peripheral stock
– Reduce isolation
– Improve digital inclusion
– Enhance home / remote working options for staff
– Or simply address the single issue of digitalisation
2. Standards
Foremost emergency alarm systems are designed to provide safety to the most vulnerable in our communities. There are standards in place to ensure that systems provide the best, safest and most appropriate solution mitigating the risk that they will not work in a time of need. For instance, a battery being flat when they customer needs to raise an alarm.
Ensure you are aware of the British Standards, and the important role they play in any solution you consider.
3. User Experience
Think about your customers individual needs and the experience they require both now and in the future.
For example:
– Reduce isolation
– Easy transition from one system to the next
– Easy to operate
4. Do your research
Look into those out there offering digital solutions and cross-reference their products benefits with your priorities.
5. Don’t be blinded by tech talk
If you don’t understand, don’t be afraid to ask a question.
We admit that from time to time we probably fall in the trap of using technical language, that is why we have put together a glossary of Telecare Terms that are frequently use.
6. Think about the future
As digital telecare technology is constantly developing and expanding it is important to make sure you are able to take advantage of technological improvements to evolve the digital solution you offer your customers in the future. Consider products which may link to your systems in future, for example, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Also, make sure your supplier can assist you along your entire digital journey and not just at the start.
