In short, telephony refers to the technology that enables communication over a distance through the transmission of sound or other signals. In simpler terms, it’s the system that allows people to communicate with one another, with or without the use of wires. And, while telephony initially referred only to the use of voice communication methods, including video calls, text messaging and more. And when it comes to business, telephony plays a crucial role in enabling communication between employees, customers, and partners, regardless of their location.
The history of telephony
The earliest telephony systems were developed in the late 1800s. Initially, these early systems used copper wires to transmit sound signals over long distances, allowing people to communicate across the country – and eventually across the globe.
How telephony has evolved
Since then, telephony technology has undergone numerous transformations and innovations, from the development of mobile phones to the rise of internet-based communication platforms like Skype and Zoom.
More recently, thanks to the digital revolution, new technologies such as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) and cloud-based phone systems now offer businesses even greater flexibility, scalability and cost-effectiveness. These technologies can also be integrated with other business tools, such as email, messaging, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems, to improve overall communication and collaboration.
Undoubtedly one of the key benefits of telephony is its ability to connect people over long distances, making it an essential tool for businesses.
More specifically, telephony can help to improve customer service by providing more ways for clients to reach them, such as through toll-free numbers, automated attendants and call routing. It also means that employees can work remotely and host visual meetings, allowing teams to stay connected and collaborate – despite their location.
Better still, an efficient telephony system provides valuable data and analytics, such as call volume, call duration and call recordings.
Another huge advantage of telephony is its ability to transmit more than just a voice. Modern-day telephony systems can transmit a wide range of signals, including the likes of text messages, images and video calls. In fact, developments in telephony have enabled a whole new world of communication – allowing people to connect in ways that were previously deemed impossible.
Are you ready to introduce a better telephony system at your business?
Ultimately, telephony remains an essential tool for communication in the modern world. But ensuring your telephony system is up-to-date has been made even more fundamental because of the BT switch-off. At the end of 2025, BT will be switching off its traditional and analogue telephone lines (PSTN and ISDN) in favour of a fully digital network – and this will impact pretty much everyone, including businesses.
So, with 2025 fast approaching – it’s vital that your business is prepared for this deadline. As business telecoms specialists, the team GRH Comms are here to support you with your communications strategy. Our knowledgeable experts go above and beyond to get to know each of our clients, allowing us to create customised communications packages, designed to suit their needs and requirements. Discover how GRH Comms can help your business create an efficient and effective telecom system.
