David Macfarlane

Last week i wrote that BT Group and EE had raised concerns about the forthcoming potential merger between Vodafone and Three UK, specifically around spectrum issues. Well, it seems the #MNOS are getting out in front of those issues with the announcement this morning of an extension to their network sharing organisation Cornerstone, but crucially with an agreement that the new enlarged entity would have an agreement to sell spectrum to Virgin Media O2. This may help with potential regulatory issues, plus the announcement that £11bn will be invested in #infrastructure is likely to go down well. #connectivity #networks #privatenetworks #private5g #investment #innovation #mnos #2g #3g #4g #5g #UK #towers #masts #realestate #growth #mobile #mobilenetworks #telecoms #telecommunications #technology Reuters https://lnkd.in/esTVb6VB

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This is a good piece on how to optimise and modernise your organisation’s contact centre, to enhance the full customer experience journey. Read about BT and Five9’s CCaaS solution, with advanced technology and A1, helping to deliver an exceptional customer experience. 

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The UK operator, Virgin Media O2 just announced a new partnership with Accenture to ramp up its private 5G offerings. This move underscores a growing theme we've been discussing – the fierce competition among UK mobile networks to capture the SME market. The growth of the integrators as primary points of development for companies cannot be underestimated. Connectivity is always important but the process of developing the wider transformations required need different skills and resources 🔘 The Accenture Angle: It's about more than just connectivity. Networks like Virgin Media O2 are tapping into Accenture's integration and transformation expertise and its ability to develop bespoke solutions to win business. 🔘 Focus on industry verticals: The focus on sectors like construction, logistics, and manufacturing demonstrates a clear strategic approach to target specific pain points with 5G-powered solutions. This latest development shows that it's not just about connectivity anymore.  Networks are playing a long game, looking to position themselves as strategic technology partners, offering value-added services tailored to specific business needs. It will be interesting to see how this strategy unfolds, and whether private 5G becomes a genuine game-changer for SMEs. #VirginMedia02 #Accenture #private5G #SMEs #UKBusiness #5g

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The value of the time lost on trains in the UK due to poor Wi-Fi connectivity equates to £376m of value a year. 🤯 Boosting Wi-Fi performance on trains is crucial to enhance rail travel for business travelers and commuters. 💻 With the total value of time spent on board UK trains amounting to around £18 billion annually, improving connectivity can significantly benefit the UK economy. Enhanced connectivity can transform travel time into productive opportunities, offering a much-needed economic uplift. Discover how the UK and its rail operators can effectively and cost-efficiently address the issue of poor train connectivity in this insightful post by Mark Barrett. ⬇️⬇️⬇️ https://lnkd.in/eGSYAw5S #railwifi #mmWave #Railconnectivity

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Striving for success in tomorrow’s business landscape? According to a 2022 research paper by Accenture, organisations with a future-ready network strategy experienced a 2.8x boost in profitability and were 1.7x more efficient. This shows that having the right solutions are imperative to business success. Interested to see how TPG Telecom’s solutions can help give you a competitive edge? Let’s connect, [email protected] #businesstogether #tpgtelecom #digitaltransformation

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Kudos to Linda Hardesty for asking the thoughtful questions! - A U.K. research group predicts that in 10 years many young people will have never subscribed to fixed-line broadband - They already satisfy most of their internet needs over their phones - 6G researchers say cellular will have the speeds and capacity to handle most users' broadband needs in 10 years In the words of T-Mobile CEO Mike Sievert, "Wireless is where the future lies." 🔮 Which all sorta begs the question,..how much of the $42 billion BEAD should be allocated to wireless infrastructure? 🤔 Maine Department of Economic and Community Development Maine Connectivity Authority Janet Mills Angus King U.S. Senator Susan Collins Rich Miner #genz #wireless #5G #6G #lastmile #broadband #internet #future #bead

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Transform your organisation with practical insight, tips, and expertise with our latest Tech Connect Buyer’s Guide. With services expertise, hardware and software solutions, the guide has everything you need to drive success in your organisation. Start reading now.

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Time is money. But what happens when your business can't keep up with the times? Then it's time to embrace seamless digital transformation through the Cloud. With resilient data centres, business continuity, disaster recovery, and hybrid solutions, we manage your journey to the Cloud. Our highly experienced team of professionals specialises in the operation of mission-critical data centre environments. It's not easy. It's hard. But the recipe itself is simple: - Resilient data centres. - Business continuity. - Disaster recovery. - Hybrid solutions. That's it. And if you want to ensure a smooth transition, here's the easiest way: - Trust our expertise. - Leverage our solutions. - Stay ahead. This isn't some "Only big companies can do it" stuff. You need a vision, a partner like SCG Together, and the commitment to transform your business for the future. Be more with SCG. Find out about our IT Cloud solutions.

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I'm pleased to have recently been featured in Capacity Media - a techoraco brand with my article on how the UK is positioning itself as a vital connectivity hub for hyperscalers and global cloud providers. With hyperscalers driving the need for robust, scalable infrastructure, it's essential that we keep pace with their growing demands. At Neos Networks, we’re proud to be part of this transformation, delivering high-capacity, low-latency connectivity solutions that empower businesses to meet the challenges of the digital age. Read the full article to learn more about how the UK is building the backbone of tomorrow's digital economy: https://hubs.la/Q02VCLLY0

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I think this speaks for itself really - 60% of employees reported having to leave their office simply to make a phone call, leading to: - reports of decreased productivity (74%) - increased stress levels (72%) If this resonates, and you personally are feeling this pain or seeing this issue, give me a ring (or Ellie Smith) - we're always happy to chat through any problems to see what can be done. p.s., if you're currently building a building...worth stopping and thinking if the material impact has been considered! (and what it means for any leasing agents and future tenants) #connectivity #realestate #stressatwork

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Can the UK and Europe turn 5G challenges into a digital revolution? The recent criticism by Three UK regarding the state of 5G networks highlights both challenges and opportunities for improvement. While the UK's ranking in 5G speeds is concerning, it could drive renewed investment and innovation, encouraging the UK and Europe to enhance their infrastructure. Critical areas like reliable synchronization for high-end services, widespread coverage, and sustainable investment will be key to success. By addressing these issues, the UK and Europe could not only catch up but set new standards in 5G, strengthening their global competitiveness and fostering a robust digital future. #5GSync #DigitalTransformation #NetworkInnovation #TechLeadership #SmartInfrastructure #UKTechAdvancement #FutureOfConnectivity Link: https://lnkd.in/dy5-nE49

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💻 Revolutionise the Way You Work with Simplicity Group & Cisco Webex, Powered by Gamma 🌍 The workplace has evolved, and so have the tools we need to stay connected, productive, and collaborative. Cisco Webex is leading the charge, making it easier than ever for businesses to embrace remote and flexible working while leaving behind outdated desk phones. Here’s how Cisco Webex transforms communication and collaboration: ✅ Seamless Call Management – Replace traditional desk phones with an intuitive online application, giving you the flexibility to make, take, and manage calls from any device—laptop, tablet, or mobile. ✅ Flexible Working, Made Simple – Whether your team is in the office, at home, or on the move, Webex keeps everyone connected with crystal-clear voice, video, and messaging capabilities. ✅ Collaboration Without Limits – Integrate Webex with your favorite apps like Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace, and Salesforce, streamlining workflows and boosting productivity. ✅ Enhanced Remote Working – Advanced features like AI-powered noise cancellation and real-time transcription make virtual meetings as effective as in-person ones. ✅ Scalable and Secure – Designed to grow with your business, Cisco Webex ensures secure and reliable communication every step of the way. The shift from desk phones to online communication tools isn’t just about convenience—it’s about unlocking a new era of efficiency and flexibility for your team. With Cisco Webex, your business is ready for the future of work. 💡 Ready to make the switch? Contact our amazing team today who can offer the advice and guidance on your journey to Seamless Collaboration: +442890 664 002. #RemoteWorking #FlexibleWorking #CiscoWebex #FutureOfWork #Productivity #Innovation #SimplicityGroup #GammaPlatinum

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🚀 Clarus Networks: Bringing High-Speed Internet to Remote Schools Across England with #Starlink! 🌐 We are thrilled to share a recent case study highlighting our involvement in a transformative project aimed at revolutionising internet connectivity in remote UK schools. Poor internet connectivity has long plagued many schools, directly impacting both staff and pupils. In response, The Clarus Networks Group participated in a tender to deploy #Starlink across numerous schools, beginning with a pilot program in seven schools in England. The Challenge: Many schools in the UK struggle with inadequate internet connections, which hampers students' access to online educational resources like interactive learning platforms, educational videos, and e-books. For staff, improved connectivity is essential for better communication, streamlined administrative tasks, and efficient online management systems. The Solution: To tackle these challenges, The Department for Education partnered with Clarus Networks to install our advanced High Performance Starlink solution in seven pilot schools. This initiative aims to upgrade internet access and future-proof educational resources and communication methods. Implementation Process: • Site Analysis: Our engineers conducted detailed surveys at each school to determine optimal installation sites for the Starlink antennas, ensuring maximum signal quality and speed. • Integration: The Starlink Business solution was seamlessly integrated with existing networking infrastructures, providing robust and reliable connectivity. The Results: The implementation of the Starlink Business solution in the pilot schools is already having a significant impact, with many positive outcomes anticipated: ✓ High-speed, low-latency internet connectivity, facilitating better access to educational resources. ✓ Internet speeds that far outperform previous connections, ensuring smooth use of online platforms. ✓ Improved communication between teachers, parents, and administrators. ✓ Streamlined administrative processes, simplifying tasks and improving efficiency. ✓ Enhanced overall school performance, benefiting both staff and pupils. Following the success of this pilot scheme, the Department for Education plans to expand the Starlink Business solution to more schools across the UK. We are excited to continue our mission to provide robust and reliable internet connections, enhancing educational outcomes on a larger scale. Stay tuned for more updates as we work towards connecting more schools and empowering education through technology! #Education #Starlink #InternetConnectivity #ClarusNetworks #TechInSchools #FutureOfEducation #EdTech #UKSchools

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We all know that digital tools have become critical to any growing business - but are you unleashing the full potential of your unified communications? @Aberdeen Strategy & Research has recently revealed that leading businesses often utilize a single source for their collaboration tools, resulting in improved customer experiences. What’s more, a single expert provider can deliver secure, interconnected infrastructure to improve the network's cybersecurity, availability, and even performance! 🔗 Our Unified Communications portfolio, supported by robust connectivity, security, and cloud solutions, can impact greatly your business's productivity. Learn more about it in our report! https://bit.ly/3UQhvoE

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Wednesday 26th June 10am UK time, 11.00am CEST Unlocking Cloud Potential How are enterprise services evolving to the cloud? How are connectivity models changing i.e. your cloud is only as good as your network? Join Expo-e, Digital Realty and Nokia on how they are helping unlock the full potential of cloud. https://nokia.ly/45EZxtG Wednesday 26th June 15.00 UK time, 16.00 CEST Getting your Datacenter Network ready for and with AI atNorth will share how they offer AI services out of their datacenters and Nokia shares how AI can be used in setting up and operating the datacenter network. https://nokia.ly/45BVi22 Paul Alexander David Gong

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That’s a wrap! Two great days exhibiting at #ConnectedNorth in Manchester, delighted with the response to our new data visualisations. When you have one million mobile coverage and performance datapoints in an 8 square mile area, as we have in Westminster, it’s important to show that data in a variety of ways that suit different purposes. There were varied views about which visualisation was favourite, as they all served different purposes, but the crowd favourite was probably our new “Which Network?” feature which allows you to search for an address and networUX will show the data transfer speeds, upload and download, within a 100m radius of the address searched. Some people loved the quality of the data, others were impressed with the filtering by 3-hour periods (important for finding capacity problems which only show up during busy periods), but all loved that we could show whether popular streaming and business apps (MS Teams, YouTube, Netflix, Amazon Prime) would perform as intended on each of the networks at a specific location and time period. I’ll post here soon with an overview of the new features and visualisations in networkUX, we think you’ll love them too.

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Telcos are calling for compliance parity with OTTs on pesky calls and SMSes. Despite significant progress in curbing unsolicited commercial communications (UCC) via SMS, voice calls remain challenging. Telcos want regulatory bodies to extend compliance to OTT apps like WhatsApp, which are currently unregulated by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and the Department of Telecommunicators (DoT). TRAI is set to discuss the potential regulation of OTT players soon. Meanwhile, telcos are leveraging distributed ledger technology (DLT) to combat UCC and collaborating with the government on new measures. #RegulatoryCompliance #Telcos #SMS https://lnkd.in/eZhYj7fw

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