Sometimes, even the best-laid plans need a little adjustment. Frankfurt’s city administration has discovered this firsthand as they navigate the complexities of updating their communication systems. As reported by the city hall spokesperson, their ambitious timeline for transitioning away from fax services is getting a thoughtful extension to December 31, 2025.
The story behind the extension reveals the intricate web of relationships that keep a city running. While Frankfurt has made impressive strides – reducing their fax machine count from 2,500 to around 800 – they’ve found that some of their most important partners, particularly in the justice system and law enforcement, still rely on fax communications for time-sensitive information sharing.
It’s a situation that showcases the practical realities of public service. While Frankfurt’s administration hasn’t purchased any new fax machines since mid-2022, they’ve recognized the need to maintain their eFax service to ensure smooth operations with these essential partners who haven’t yet transitioned to electronic post boxes (ePost) or the specialized EGVP communication system.
The numbers tell an interesting story of progress: from 2,500 fax machines to 800, representing a significant shift in how the city handles its communications. Yet it’s the human element – the need to maintain effective communication with law enforcement and judicial partners – that’s driving the timeline adjustment.
The city’s approach reflects a careful balance between progress and practicality. While they’re committed to eventually phasing out their fax server entirely, they’re ensuring this transition doesn’t disrupt critical services or communications. This is particularly important given the legal and data protection considerations at play, especially when handling sensitive information.
Looking ahead, Frankfurt continues to promote secure electronic alternatives for public sector communications. Their story shows that sometimes the path to modernization isn’t a straight line – it’s about finding the right pace that works for everyone involved in keeping a city running smoothly.
