Unified Communications Industry Trends

In today’s fast-evolving business landscape, more companies than ever are turning to Unified Communications (UC) to stay ahead of the curve. Elite Group research shows that over a third of large businesses onboarded UC systems between 2021 and 2023, highlighting the growing importance of this technology in driving productivity and flexibility.

Moreover, according to Precedence Research, the Unified Communications market is expected to reach a staggering $719 billion (£550 billion) by 2034, with more businesses anticipated to adopt UC systems in the coming years. But what’s driving this surge in adoption?

Unified Communications, a cloud-based platform, integrates multiple essential communication tools –  such as voice chat, instant messaging, video conferencing, and file sharing – into a single, user-friendly application. While its potential to streamline business processes is undeniable, several key trends are emerging that explain why companies are rapidly turning to UC solutions.

At Elite Group, we’re experts in Unified Communications technology, helping businesses like yours transition to cloud-based solutions and unlock the full benefits. Ready to learn more? Read on to discover why so many businesses are embracing unified solutions or contact one of our experts today.

Common Trends Among Businesses Adopting Unified Communications

Empowering Remote and Hybrid Working

Remote and hybrid working have become standard practices for many businesses, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. According to recent Forbes data, 63% of full-time UK employees now work remotely either all or part of the time. With productivity gains reported by many companies, there is every reason to suggest this trend will continue.

However, some businesses are unable to offer flexible working conditions due to outdated technology that hampers communication and collaboration. Legacy phone systems, for example, make it difficult for remote and hybrid workers to stay connected with colleagues and customers. Furthermore, these systems often limit access to essential digital tools and data.

Unified Communications platforms solve these problems. Since they are cloud-based, employees can access the system from virtually anywhere using a laptop, tablet, or smartphone with a stable internet connection. Remote workers can collaborate seamlessly, access shared documents, and maintain consistent communication with office-based colleagues.

Preparing for the PSTN Switch-Off: Why Replacing Legacy Phone Systems Should Be On Your Business Agenda

Replacing legacy phone systems is no longer just an option, it’s becoming a necessity. By 2027, British Telecom will deactivate the traditional Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) that has supported UK communications for decades. As these lines become obsolete, businesses that haven’t upgraded to modern systems risk losing their communication capabilities entirely.

Unified Communications offers a robust, future-proof solution. Because it’s cloud-based and accessed via the internet, UC systems are unaffected by the upcoming PSTN switch-off. Businesses that switch to UC will not only avoid disruption but will also benefit from enhanced communication features, greater flexibility, and reduced operational costs.

Accelerating Digital Transformations

Digital transformation remains a top priority for businesses seeking to boost efficiency, productivity, and customer satisfaction. This process typically involves upgrading existing technology with newer, more efficient hardware and software. You can find out more about digital transformations by reading our blog on the topic.

Unified Communications systems have played a pivotal role in many companies’ digital transformation strategies in recent years.

At Elite Group, we’ve helped countless organizations achieve these goals by guiding them through the digital transformation process. Need assistance with your own transformation? Get in touch today to learn how we can help.

Leveraging Outsourcing to Simplify Communications Management

According to data featured in an article by SpareMyTime, 48% of UK businesses are now outsourcing at least one business process, rather than handling it internally.

It is not always about reducing workload, though. Some businesses are keen to outsource elements of their operation to companies that have far more knowledge and in-depth experience on particular matters. Communication is one of them.

Managing modern communication systems can be resource-intensive and challenging for IT staff who are juggling other critical responsibilities. For businesses without dedicated technology experts, this challenge is even greater.

This is where Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) can be so useful.

By outsourcing the hosting and management of your communication systems to a trusted provider like Elite Group, you relieve your internal teams from the burden of day-to-day system maintenance. This not only ensures optimal performance but also enhances data security, as UCaaS providers bring specialised cyber security expertise to the table.

Enhancing Cybersecurity with Unified Communications

In today’s digital-first world, protecting sensitive business data is a top concern for companies of all sizes. Unified Communications platforms offer enhanced security measures to safeguard your critical data.

With UC, employees can quickly and easily identify internal users, reducing the risk of phishing and other cyberattacks. Additionally, UC platforms provide better control over sensitive information, ensuring that it stays within trusted channels. 

Moreover, when businesses adopt UCaaS, they benefit from the built-in security expertise of their provider, further strengthening their defences against cyber threats.

Onboard Unified Communications Systems with Elite Group

If these trends resonate with your business’s needs, it’s time to explore the benefits of Unified Communications. 

At Elite Group, we have years of experience in helping businesses like yours transition to modern communication solutions effortlessly. 

Ready to get started? Contact Elite Group today to learn more about Unified Communications solutions tailored to your business.