Why is Number Portability a reason businesses are moving to a Cloud PBX?
Many companies are already moving to a Cloud PBX. Its features, which use internet lines instead of conventional fixed telephone lines, have removed restrictions on where people can work, and it is attracting attention as one of the key features of the change in working methods. On the other hand, it is true that many companies are interested in cloud PBX but are hesitant to adopt it. This article provides an overview of the advantages of number portability and also introduces some key points when rolling out a cloud PBX.
What is number portability?
Number portability refers to the transfer of a telephone number from one current telecommunications provider to another. It is a mechanism that allows you to change only your telecommunications service provider without changing your current business or personal telephone number.
For example, if you move from your current fixed-line telecommunications provider to a cloud PBX telecommunications provider, you would normally have to change your telephone number as well. However, by using number portability, you can use the new communication service without changing your telephone number.
Differences between ‘MNP’ and ‘LNP’
When searching for ‘number portability’, the words ‘MNP’ and ‘LNP’ are often seen. Both of these refer to number portability, but there are specific differences as follows.
MNP (Mobile Number Portability)
The ‘M’ in ‘MNP’ stands for mobile phone, and refers to the transfer of phone numbers (number portability) on mobile phones. It refers to a system whereby mobile phone users can retain their previous phone number and use it with a new carrier, even if they change carriers. It is a term often heard when individuals change mobile telecommunications providers (carriers).
LNP (Local Number Portability)
The ‘L’ in ‘LNP’ stands for landline, which means the transfer of a telephone number (number portability) on a landline. It refers to a system whereby a landline user can retain their previous telephone number and use it with a new operator, even if they change telecommunications providers. LNP is a term often heard in relation to landline telephones, particularly those used by businesses and households.
This article focuses in particular on LNPs, which are often used by companies.
Why is number portability important?
The benefits of using number portability are significant in terms of both time and cost, and generally avoid the following hassles.
- Inform customers about changes to the website, by email and telephone:
In today’s digital society, the most speedy thing to do is to update the company website. Customers also need to be emailed or telephoned in advance with information about the change of hone number. Being digital, the cost may be relatively low, but it can take up a lot of time. - Changes to printed material:
Making changes to physical printed materials are costly and time-consuming. Changes such as product packaging, distribution materials and, most noticeably, business cards. In the production industry, the change may involve a work stoppage in some cases, which can have an impact not only in terms of payment, but also in terms of income. - Loss of confidence in the company:
In general, companies and individuals alike do not feel very good about changing their telephone number. It is a very big deal, especially for companies where social credibility is important. In some cases, this is unavoidable and not necessarily a bad thing, but if possible, it is preferable to move to a new service without taking such a risk. - Disruption due to phone outages, etc:
Even with the above changes and guidance, it can be difficult for the new number to penetrate immediately. After all, in some cases, some customers may call the old number and be upset when their calls are not answered.
Why switch to a cloud PBX?
Switching services to a cloud PBX offers a range of benefits that could not be achieved with traditional fixed lines. In particular, it is an opportunity to rethink how you spend your telecoms costs and how you work. Two of these typical benefits are presented below.
- Lower communication costs for telephony:
Cloud PBXs can reduce initial and communication costs compared to traditional fixed lines. There is no need to purchase and maintain equipment, and calls between different regional offices can be connected via extensions, so there are no costs involved. As no physical equipment is required, the system can be started with less burden compared to a conventional PBX. - Available on smartphones and computers:
The fact that the system can be used on a smartphone or PC means that it can be used anywhere, regardless of location. For example, it is possible to transfer an incoming call to an extension to the smartphone or PC of an employee who is out of the office or at home, without hanging up. For companies working to change the way they work, this system has many advantages, such as the introduction of remote working, which allows employees to work from anywhere, and the reduction of telephone costs.
Important points on the ‘LNP’
In practice, not all landline numbers are compatible with number portability. The main requirements for number portability are listed below.
- Does your current number supports portability:
Whether or not your current number is compatible depends on your current contractor and other conditions, so we won’t go into detail here, but first you need to know if your current number is compatible. - Choosing a cloud PBX service with number portability.:
If the current number is a portability-enabled number, you must check whether the service provider (the Cloud PBX vendor), to which you are migrating to, is able to perform portability. If not, you will need to obtain a new telephone number through the migrating vendor.
Here at Cloud PBX CIRCLE, we can provide you with a hassle free Number Portability.
Here at Cloud PBX CIRCLE, we use a globally reliable communications platform, which provides a high level of security and redundancy not possible with open source options. Our services are comprehensive, multi-functional and have been used by a vast number of companies since 1997, as we continue to provide IT services that make society more efficient.If you are considering introducing a cloud PBX, switching from a PBX or considering number portability as described in this article, please contact us.
