Whenever you’re introducing a new telecom billing system, there are several factors that could affect its overall success and functionality.
These are less obvious than the regular considerations, such as how your billing needs change over time or how you want to utilize your billing system.
However, they’re still important to keep in mind if you want to make the most of your investment and ensure the highest return on investment (ROI).
Here are 5 little-known factors that could affect your telecom billing system.
1) National vs. regional
Many business owners may not realize it, but their telecom service provider may have locations all over their state or country. The important thing to consider when you look at potential providers is whether they are operating at a national level (meaning they serve customers in many areas) or just servicing a few regions.
For example, CenturyLink provides telephone and Internet services in more than 100 U.S. cities. However, its subsidiary company Qwest operates almost entirely in Western states.
What this means for you as a business owner is that if you choose one of these companies as your telecom provider, it’s possible that prices for the same product will vary significantly depending on where your office is located.
2) Number portability
Most providers offer number portability so users can keep their phone numbers when switching carriers. Some companies make it as easy as calling a toll-free number, whereas others require you to fill out and mail in an application or contact customer service by phone.
It’s also helpful to know how long it will take for your number to become portable – and whether there are any fees associated with transferring your existing number. There are even times when customers must contact other carriers before they can switch.
3) Transparency
Today’s consumers expect businesses to be as transparent as possible. That means you’ll need to be completely transparent about what you’re billing customers for. How much they are being charged and why. Or at least provide them with an explanation if it involves anything other than simple math.
You’ll also need to educate them on their bills and give them the opportunity to ask questions. Lastly, providing a summary of their consumption via telecom billing software each month. It can help reduce customer confusion when reading their monthly statement.
4) Technology and development
When choosing a new billing solution, many service providers look for software that will offer speed and agility. While these are both critical elements, there are other aspects of a new or upgraded solution that might have a big impact on your bottom line. Therefore, when choosing a telecom billing software, one must should be sure about its technology.
5) Inaccurate Results
Results from your billing system can be influenced by factors outside of your control. False positives and false negatives can lead to an incorrect diagnosis. It could cost you time and money. And you might not even realize it.
To keep accurate results, make sure to implement a quality assurance program side by side telecom billing solution that constantly measures results and flag suspicious activity.
Also, ensure data is properly entered before sending it through the system. For example, missing an x when entering a number in one field means something different than missing an x in another field. Finally, check for errors or inaccuracies as soon as they are discovered. So you can take corrective action as soon as possible.
Final Thoughts
Hardware failures and human error are two of your biggest risks when it comes to billing systems. With these five factors in mind, you can start making better decisions about how to manage your billing. You might find out that hiring an outside company like NEON as a telecom billing solution might be best! Contact them now to get a FREE DEMO.