After more than two decades of connecting people across the globe, Skype will officially retire on 5th May 2025. Microsoft will say a final farewell to one of the most recognisable names in online communication. But while it may feel like the end of an era, it’s actually the start of a much more powerful way to stay connected – Microsoft Teams! Goodbye Skype, Hello Teams!
At Digicomm360, we’ve been getting lots of questions from our clients about what this means for them. So, we’ve put together this guide to walk you through the change, answer your questions, and explain why Microsoft Teams is more than just a replacement – it’s an upgrade.
So, why has Skype been shut down?
Skype has been around since 2003. For years, it was the go-to app for video calls, voice chats, and messaging. But as the world of work changed, especially after the global shift to remote and hybrid working, Microsoft needed a platform that could do much more.
That’s where Microsoft Teams comes in. It combines everything Skype could do – and adds so much more, like team collaboration, integrated calendars, secure file sharing, and full integration with Microsoft 365.
Rather than maintain two overlapping platforms, Microsoft made the decision to retire Skype and focus on making Teams the all-in-one solution for modern communication.
What does this mean if you still use Skype?
If you or your business were still relying on Skype, you’ll find that it no longer works as of 5th May 2025. Microsoft has now fully moved all its support and focus over to Teams.
But here’s the good news: Microsoft has made the switch as smooth as possible. You can log into Microsoft Teams using your existing Skype account, and your contacts and chat history will carry over with you. No need to start from scratch.
If you need help with the transition, we’re happy to support you. Digicomm360 can guide you through the setup process, help your team get up to speed, and make sure you’re getting the most out of the new platform.
Goodbye Skype, Hello Teams: Why Teams is a better option for businesses
Skype was brilliant for personal calls and small-scale communication, but let’s be honest – it had its limitations when it came to serious business use. Microsoft Teams, on the other hand, was built specifically with collaboration and productivity in mind.
Goodbye Skype, Hello Teams: Here’s what you get with Teams:
1. All-in-One Communication Chat, voice, video calls, meetings, and file sharing – all from one place. You don’t need to switch between different apps or platforms.
2. Deep Microsoft 365 Integration Teams works seamlessly with Outlook, OneDrive, Word, Excel, and the rest of the Microsoft ecosystem. That means fewer clicks, less confusion, and smoother workflows.
3. Better for Team Collaboration You can create dedicated channels for different teams, departments, or projects. Share files, assign tasks, hold video meetings, and keep conversations organised.
4. Stronger Security Teams comes with enterprise-grade security, encryption, and compliance features that are essential for today’s data protection standards.
5. Access Anywhere Whether your team is in the office, working from home, or on the road, Teams is available on desktop, mobile, and web. You’re never out of the loop.
What if you’re not using Microsoft 365?
Don’t worry – Microsoft Teams is still available as a free version. You won’t get all the advanced features, but for many small businesses, it’s more than enough to cover everyday communication and collaboration.
Of course, if you want the full experience, we can help you get set up with Microsoft 365. As an official partner, Digicomm360 can recommend the right package for your business and handle the transition without the stress.
What about other communication tools?
We get it – Microsoft Teams isn’t the only option out there. But in our experience, it’s one of the most reliable and comprehensive tools available – especially if you’re already using Microsoft 365 in some form.
Other apps might do one or two things well, but Teams is where everything comes together in one secure, centralised hub. It’s built for teamwork, and it shows.
Need help making the switch? That’s what we’re here for.
Change can be frustrating – we totally understand. But with the right support, it doesn’t have to be difficult.
If you’re unsure where to start or worried about losing data or disrupting your business, just give us a call. We can:
Help migrate your Skype contacts and chats
Set up Microsoft Teams and configure it for your business
Provide training and guidance for your team
Offer ongoing support as you get used to the new system
Goodbye Skype, Hello Teams
Skype had a fantastic run, but now it’s time to move on to something better.
Microsoft Teams gives your business everything you need to communicate, collaborate, and stay productive in one easy-to-use platform. And with Digicomm360 by your side, the transition is quick, smooth, and stress-free.
Festive Fun at Digicomm 360 – The festive season is well and truly in full swing at Digicomm 360, and we’re loving every minute of it! From quirky Christmas jumpers to an epic team party, the DigiTeam has been busy spreading festive cheer. Here’s what we’ve been up to – plus everything you need to know about our Christmas opening hours.
Christmas Jumper Day: Festive Fashion at Its Best
We didn’t hold back this year when it came to Christmas Jumper Day! From Greggs sausage rolls to Tech Support – delete your cookies, and the cheeky Stuff the Turkey, I’m off to the Pub, our team rocked some absolutely iconic jumpers.
The office was buzzing with laughter as we showed off our festive style, and there might have been an impromptu jumper competition (we’re still deciding who had the best one!). Head over to our social media for a peek at the fun – we promise it’ll make you smile!
Festive Fun at Digicomm 360 – A Night to Remember: The Digicomm Christmas Party
What better way to wrap up an amazing year than with a proper celebration? We headed to the beautiful Last Drop Village for our annual Christmas party, and wow – what a night!
The evening was filled with laughter, delicious food, and some questionable dance moves (no names will be mentioned!). It was the perfect chance to celebrate our hard work and reflect on the successes of 2024 with the incredible DigiTeam.
From toasts to team spirit, it was a night to remember. A massive thank you to The Last Drop Village for hosting us and making everything so magical – we couldn’t have asked for a better way to kick off the festive season.
Christmas Opening Hours
We know the holidays can be busy, so here are our Christmas opening times to make sure you can get in touch when you need us:
Monday, 23rd December 2024 – Open 08:30 – 17:30
Tuesday, 24th December 2024 – Open 08:30 – 17:30
Wednesday, 25th December 2024 – Closed
Thursday, 26th December 2024 – Closed
Friday, 27th December 2024 – Open 08:30 – 17:30
Monday, 30th December 2024 – Open 08:30 – 17:30
Tuesday, 31st December 2024 – Open 08:30 – 17:30
Wednesday, 1st January 2025 – Closed
Thursday, 2nd January 2025 – Open 08:30 – 17:30
Friday, 3rd January 2025 – Open 08:30 – 17:30
Thanks for an Amazing Year
As we close out 2024, we just want to say a massive THANK YOU to all our clients and partners. Your support has made this year so special, and we’re excited for what’s to come in 2025.
From all of us at Digicomm 360, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May your holidays be filled with joy, laughter, and maybe a cheeky mince pie or two!
Stay safe, stay connected, and enjoy the festivities – we’ll see you in 2025!
P.S. Don’t forget to check out our Christmas jumper snaps and party highlights on social media too.
The Big Switch Off, originally scheduled for 2025, has been pushed back to 2027. This extension gives businesses and individuals more time to prepare for the transition. But what exactly is the Big Switch Off, and how can you ensure your operations continue smoothly? Let’s explore the key aspects of preparing for the Big Switch Off, what you need to know and provide practical tips to help you get ready.
What is the Big Switch Off?
The Big Switch Off refers to the decommissioning of traditional Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) services. These older technologies are being phased out in favour of more advanced and efficient digital communication methods, primarily Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP).
Why is it Happening?
The move to digital communications offers numerous benefits, including improved call quality, greater flexibility, and cost savings. Additionally, maintaining outdated PSTN and ISDN infrastructure is increasingly expensive and inefficient. The transition to digital is part of a broader effort to modernise telecommunications infrastructure, making it more resilient and future-proof.
Communication Systems: Businesses relying on traditional phone lines will need to switch to VoIP or other digital communication solutions.
Security Systems: Many security systems and alarms currently use PSTN lines. These will need upgrading to ensure continued operation.
Payment Terminals: Credit card machines and other payment terminals that use PSTN lines will also need to be updated.
Steps to Prepare:
Assess Your Current Setup: Conduct an audit of all systems and devices that rely on PSTN or ISDN lines. This includes phones, fax machines, security systems, and payment terminals.
Plan Your Transition: Develop a comprehensive plan to transition to digital alternatives. This should include timelines, budget considerations, and a list of required upgrades.
Choose the Right Solutions: Research and select reliable VoIP providers and other digital communication solutions that meet your business needs.
Upgrade Infrastructure: Ensure your internet infrastructure can handle the increased load from VoIP and other digital services. This might involve upgrading your broadband connection or investing in new networking equipment.
Test and Train: Before fully transitioning, test the new systems to ensure they work as expected. Provide training for your staff to familiarise them with the new technology.
Monitor and Support: After the switch, monitor the new systems closely to identify and resolve any issues promptly. Ensure you have access to technical support if needed.
Preparing for the Big Switch Off: What You Need to Know
While the Big Switch Off has been delayed until 2027, it’s essential to start preparing now. By taking proactive steps, you can ensure a smooth transition to digital communications and avoid disruptions to your business operations. At Digicomm 360, we’re here to help you navigate this change. Contact us today for expert advice and support in making the switch to digital.
Ready to prepare for the Big Switch Off? Contact Digicomm 360 today for a free consultation and learn how our digital communication solutions can help you stay ahead of the curve.
Digicomm 360, your trusted partner in all things digital, is here to shed light on two industry-leading software solutions from Adobe: Acrobat Pro and Creative Cloud. Whether you’re a design agency churning out stunning visuals or a legal firm managing sensitive documents, these tools can revolutionise your workflow and empower your team.
Acrobat Pro: The PDF Powerhouse
Let’s face it, PDFs are the cornerstone of modern document exchange. But what if you could do more than just view them? Enter Acrobat Pro, a comprehensive suite that transforms PDFs from static files into dynamic tools.
Unleash Your Inner Editor: We all know the frustration of encountering a typo or outdated information in a critical PDF. Acrobat Pro empowers you to edit text and images directly within the document, saving you the hassle of reconversion and reformatting. Need to add comments or feedback? Utilise sticky notes, text boxes, and highlighting tools to create a collaborative review process.
Enhanced Security and Control: Data breaches are a growing concern. Acrobat Pro offers a robust set of security features to protect your confidential information. Password-protect your PDFs, restrict editing permissions, and even redact sensitive text, ensuring your documents remain in the right hands.
Effortless Collaboration: Gone are the days of endless email chains with multiple versions floating around. Acrobat Pro integrates seamlessly with cloud storage services like Dropbox and OneDrive, enabling real-time document sharing and co-editing. Streamline your approval processes with e-signatures, allowing stakeholders to sign off on documents electronically from anywhere in the world.
Optimise Your Workflow: Time is money, and Acrobat Pro understands that. Automate repetitive tasks with powerful action wizards. Convert paper documents into searchable PDFs with a single click, saving you hours spent manually indexing information.
The Creative Cloud: A Suite for All Seasons
Now, let’s dive into the world of Adobe Creative Cloud. This subscription service offers access to a vast library of industry-standard creative applications, catering to designers, photographers, videographers, and more.
Unmatched Creative Freedom: From image manipulation with Photoshop to graphic design with Illustrator, Creative Cloud provides the tools to bring your creative vision to life. Edit videos with stunning precision in Premiere Pro, compose beautiful music with Audition, and create captivating animations with After Effects. The possibilities are truly endless.
Always Up-to-Date: Gone are the days of scrambling to upgrade software. Creative Cloud ensures you always have access to the latest versions of your favourite applications, packed with new features and bug fixes. Streamlined updates happen seamlessly in the background, keeping you focused on what matters most – creating.
Collaboration Made Easy: Creative Cloud fosters seamless collaboration between team members. Share your projects in real-time with colleagues across geographical locations. Utilise Adobe Stock for instant access to millions of royalty-free images, videos, and templates, saving you valuable time and resources.
Seamless Integration: The beauty of Creative Cloud lies in its interconnected nature. Effortlessly move assets between applications, such as transferring a Photoshop image directly into an Illustrator workspace. This streamlines your workflow and allows for a more cohesive creative process.
The Right Tool for the Job
Digicomm 360 recognises that every business has unique needs. We offer a variety of Creative Cloud subscription plans to fit your budget and software requirements. Whether you need the entire suite or just a few specific applications, we’ll help you find the perfect option to empower your creative team.
Unlocking Your Potential
Investing in Adobe Acrobat Pro and Creative Cloud is an investment in your business’s future. These powerful tools empower your team to work smarter, not harder, by streamlining workflows, enhancing collaboration, and fostering exceptional creativity.
Digicomm 360: Your Trusted Partner
At Digicomm 360, we’re passionate about helping businesses unlock their full potential. We offer comprehensive sales and support for both Acrobat Pro and Creative Cloud. Our team of experts can guide you through the software selection process, provide training for your staff, and offer ongoing support to ensure you maximise the return on your investment.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Contact Digicomm 360 today and schedule a free consultation. Let’s discuss your specific needs and tailor an Adobe software solution that propels your business to new heights of success. Remember, with the right tools and expert guidance, your creative vision can become a reality.
Microsoft 365, formerly known as Office 365, is not just a suite of productivity tools; it’s a comprehensive solution designed to enhance collaboration, streamline communication, and fortify security. With a suite of applications covering productivity, communication, and collaboration, Microsoft 365 has become an integral part of the modern workplace. Let’s work on understanding Microsoft 365 together.
Core Components of Microsoft 365
1. Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint:
The cornerstone of document creation and collaboration. These applications have evolved beyond their traditional roles, offering cloud-based accessibility and real-time collaboration features.
2. Microsoft Outlook:
A robust email and calendaring tool that keeps your team organised and connected.
3. Microsoft Teams:
An innovative platform for team collaboration, combining chat, video conferencing, file storage, and application integration.
4. OneDrive and SharePoint:
Cloud storage solutions that facilitate seamless file sharing, version control, and secure access from anywhere.
5. Microsoft Exchange:
An email server that enhances communication efficiency and supports advanced features for business emails.
6. Security and Compliance Features:
Advanced security features, threat intelligence, and compliance tools ensure your data is protected and your business meets regulatory standards.
Why Choose Microsoft 365 from Digicomm 360?
1. Expertise in Integration and Migration:
Digicomm 360 stands out in its ability to seamlessly integrate Microsoft 365 into your existing infrastructure. Our team of experts understands the complexities of migration and ensures a smooth transition, minimising disruptions to your business operations.
2. Tailored Solutions for Your Business:
We understand that one size does not fit all. Digicomm 360 offers tailored Microsoft 365 solutions to match the unique needs of your business, ensuring you get the most value from your investment.
3. 24/7 Support and Training:
Adopting new tools can be challenging, but with Digicomm 360, you’re never alone. Our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to address any issues, and we provide comprehensive training to empower your team with the skills needed to maximise productivity.
4. Data Security and Compliance:
Security is at the forefront of our services. With Microsoft 365 from Digicomm 360, your data is safeguarded with advanced security features and compliance tools, ensuring that your business meets industry standards and regulations.
5. Scalability and Flexibility:
As your business grows, so do your needs. Microsoft 365 from Digicomm 360 is designed to scale with your business, providing the flexibility to add or remove users and services as required.
6. Cost-Effective Solutions:
Our pricing plans are transparent and designed to provide cost-effective solutions. With Digicomm 360, you get the full suite of Microsoft 365 tools without breaking the bank, allowing you to invest more in growing your business.
The Transformative Power of Microsoft 365
1. Enhanced Collaboration:
Microsoft 365 redefines collaboration by bringing together tools like Teams, SharePoint, and OneDrive. Real-time editing, file sharing, and communication become seamless, fostering a collaborative environment within your team.
2. Mobility and Accessibility:
With Microsoft 365, your team is no longer bound by physical office space. The cloud-based nature of the suite ensures that your documents, emails, and collaborative projects are accessible from anywhere with an internet connection.
3. Efficiency in Communication:
Microsoft Outlook and Teams facilitate efficient communication, whether it’s through professional emails, instant messaging, or virtual meetings. The integration of these tools creates a unified communication platform that streamlines interactions within and outside your organisation.
4. Productivity on the Go:
Microsoft 365’s suite of applications is optimised for mobile devices, enabling your team to stay productive while on the move. Whether it’s reviewing documents, responding to emails, or joining virtual meetings, productivity is no longer confined to the office.
5. Data Security and Compliance:
In an era of increasing cyber threats and data breaches, Microsoft 365 provides advanced security features that protect your sensitive information. Digicomm 360 ensures that your business remains compliant with industry regulations, instilling confidence in your clients and partners.
How to Get Started with Microsoft 365 from Digicomm 360
1. Consultation:
Reach out to our experts for a comprehensive consultation. We’ll assess your business needs, discuss your goals, and tailor a Microsoft 365 plan that aligns with your objectives.
2. Migration and Integration:
Our team will handle the migration process, ensuring a smooth transition to Microsoft 365. Integration with your existing systems will be seamless, minimising disruptions to your workflow.
3. Training and Support:
Digicomm 360 believes in empowering our clients. We provide thorough training sessions for your team to maximise the benefits of Microsoft 365. Our support team is available 24/7 to address any queries or concerns.
4. Optimisation and Scaling:
As your business evolves, we’ll work with you to optimise your Microsoft 365 setup. Whether it’s scaling up or refining your usage, Digicomm 360 ensures that your technology aligns with your business growth.
Understanding Microsoft 365
Microsoft 365 is not just a suite of applications; it’s a catalyst for transforming the way businesses operate. When you choose Microsoft 365 from Digicomm 360, you’re not just getting a product; you’re gaining a strategic partner invested in your success.
Empower your business with the tools needed to thrive in the digital age. Contact Digicomm 360 today to embark on a journey of enhanced collaboration, heightened productivity, and fortified security with Microsoft 365. Let’s reshape the future of your business together!
