MVNOs for Beginners - How to become an MVNO - How to successfully launch an MVNO

MVNO / MVNE Billing

MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) and MVNE (Mobile Virtual Network Enabler) billing involves the billing and revenue management of mobile services for virtual network operators. This includes managing customer accounts, charging for services, and generating invoices.

An MVNO is a company that provides mobile services to customers without owning the underlying network infrastructure. Instead, an MVNO partners with a network operator to provide mobile services using the operator's network. An MVNE, on the other hand, provides the technical infrastructure and services needed to operate an MVNO.

An MVNO billing system typically includes the following components:

1.      Customer management: This includes managing customer accounts, customer data, and customer support.

2.      Service provisioning: This involves setting up and configuring customer services, such as voice, messaging, and data services.

3.      Usage tracking: This involves tracking customer usage of mobile services and generating usage reports.

4.      Rating and charging: This involves calculating charges for mobile services based on usage and customer billing plans.

5.      Invoicing and payment: This involves generating invoices for customers and processing payments.

MVNO and MVNE Billing Systems are typically integrated with the network operator's billing and revenue management system to ensure accurate and timely billing for services. These systems may also integrate with other systems, such as customer relationship management (CRM) and financial management systems, to provide a comprehensive view of customer interactions and financial transactions.

Effective MVNO and MVNE billing is critical to the success of virtual network operators. By partnering with reliable billing and revenue management service providers, MVNOs and MVNEs can improve customer satisfaction, reduce churn, and increase profitability.

MVNOs for Beginners

MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) are companies that offer mobile phone services to customers without owning a physical mobile network infrastructure. Instead, they partner with established mobile network operators (MNOs) to use their network infrastructure and provide mobile services to customers.

Here are some basics to know about MVNOs:

1.      Business Model: MVNOs operate on a wholesale model where they purchase network capacity and services from MNOs and then resell them to customers. MVNOs do not own their network infrastructure, but they do own their branding, pricing, and marketing strategies.

2.      Target Market: MVNOs can target specific customer segments, such as ethnic or niche markets, with customized services and pricing plans.

3.      Cost Savings: MVNOs can offer competitive pricing to customers because they do not have to invest in expensive network infrastructure. However, they still have to pay for the network capacity they purchase from the MNOs.

4.      MVNO Types: There are different Types of MVNOs, including Full MVNOs that have complete control over their services, and light MVNOs that have limited control and rely more on the host operator's systems.

5.      MVNO Benefits: MVNOs offer several benefits to customers, including competitive pricing, customized services, and flexible plans. They also provide more options in the mobile services market and can offer superior customer service due to their more focused and specialized nature.

6.      Challenges: Some challenges faced by MVNOs include the need to negotiate favorable contracts with MNOs, maintain adequate network capacity, and provide differentiated services to stand out in a crowded market.

Starting an MVNO can be a complex process, but it can be a profitable business model for those who do it successfully. It's important to research the market and the competition, develop a sound business plan, and work with experienced partners to launch and grow an MVNO.

How to become an MVNO

Becoming an MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) requires several steps, including:

1.      Conduct market research: Identify the target market for your MVNO and assess the competition in the area. Determine what kind of services and pricing plans will appeal to your target audience.

2.      Develop a business plan: Develop a comprehensive business plan that includes your target market, marketing strategy, operational strategy, and financial projections. Your business plan should also include how you plan to differentiate your services from competitors.

3.      Choose a host operator: Identify a host operator with a network that meets your needs in terms of coverage and services. Negotiate a contract with the host operator that outlines the terms of the partnership, including network access, pricing, and service-level agreements.

4.      Obtain regulatory approvals: Depending on your location, you may need to obtain regulatory approvals before launching your MVNO. Research the legal requirements in your jurisdiction and obtain the necessary licenses and approvals.

5.      Develop a brand identity: Develop a strong brand identity that differentiates your MVNO from competitors and resonates with your target market. Your brand identity should be consistent across all marketing and communication channels.

6.      Build your network infrastructure: Set up the necessary systems for billing, customer management, and network monitoring. Choose a billing and customer management system that integrates with the host operator's systems.

7.      Launch your MVNO: Launch your MVNO and market your services to your target audience. Monitor your operations and adjust your strategies as needed.

Becoming an MVNO can be a complex process, but it can be a profitable business model for those who do it successfully. It's important to seek expert advice and guidance at every step of the process to increase your chances of success.

How to successfully launch an MVNO

Launching an MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) can be a complex process, but there are several key steps you can take to increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to successfully launch an MVNO:

1.      Develop a solid business plan: Your business plan should include a clear strategy for how you will differentiate your services, target your customers, and generate revenue. It should also outline your marketing and operational strategies, as well as your financial projections.

2.      Choose the right host operator: Your success as an MVNO depends on having a reliable and high-quality network operator partner. Research your options and choose a host operator that offers a network that meets your needs, competitive pricing, and excellent customer service.

3.      Choose the right technology partners: Choose technology partners that offer billing and customer management systems that integrate with your host operator's systems. This will help you manage your operations more efficiently and provide better customer service.

4.      Develop a strong brand identity: Your brand identity should be unique and resonate with your target audience. Develop a clear brand message and communicate it consistently across all marketing and communication channels.

5.      Launch with attractive offers: Launch with attractive pricing plans and promotional offers that will help you attract and retain customers. You can offer discounts, free trials, or other incentives to encourage customers to sign up.

6.      Provide excellent customer service: Focus on providing exceptional customer service to differentiate your MVNO from competitors. Train your customer service representatives to handle customer inquiries and complaints promptly and effectively.

7.      Monitor and adjust your strategies: Monitor your operations closely and adjust your strategies as needed. Use analytics and customer feedback to identify areas for improvement and make changes to improve your services and customer experience.

Launching an MVNO can be a challenging process, but by following these tips, you can increase your chances of success and create a profitable business.

Mostly Asked Questions By Clients In Telecom MVNO Billing Services

Q: What is MVNO?

A: MVNO stands for Mobile Virtual Network Operator. It is a type of wireless carrier that does not own its own network infrastructure but instead leases network capacity from other carriers.

Q: How does an MVNO operate?

A: An MVNO leases network capacity from one or more major carriers and sells mobile services to customers under its own brand. MVNOs typically focus on a specific niche market, such as prepaid plans or international calling.

Q: How does MVNO billing work?

A: MVNO billing works in a similar way to traditional carrier billing. The MVNO bills the customer for the services they use, such as voice calls, text messages, and data usage. The MVNO then pays the carrier for the network capacity used by its customers.

Q: What types of billing models do MVNOs use?

A: MVNOs typically use two main types of billing models: prepaid and postpaid. Prepaid plans require customers to pay for services in advance, while postpaid plans bill customers after they have used services.

Q: What are some common billing issues that MVNOs face?

A: Common billing issues for MVNOs include inaccurate billing, disputes over network usage charges, and difficulty integrating billing systems with the carrier's network.

Q: How do MVNOs handle billing disputes?

A: MVNOs typically have a customer service department that handles billing disputes. Customers can contact the MVNO's customer service team to report billing errors or disputes. The MVNO then investigates the issue and works to resolve it.

Q: How do MVNOs ensure accurate billing?

A: MVNOs use a variety of methods to ensure accurate billing, including monitoring network usage, conducting regular audits of billing records, and using billing software that is designed to minimize errors.

Q: What are some important factors to consider when choosing an MVNO billing provider?

A: Important factors to consider when choosing an MVNO billing provider include cost, reliability, scalability, and the ability to integrate with the carrier's network.

Q: How do MVNOs handle taxes and regulatory fees?

A: MVNOs are responsible for collecting and remitting taxes and regulatory fees to the appropriate government agencies. The MVNO typically adds these fees to the customer's bill.

Q: What are some key trends in MVNO billing?

A: Some key trends in MVNO billing include the use of digital billing platforms, the integration of billing systems with other back-office systems, and the use of real-time billing and analytics to improve the customer experience.

Q: What types of billing systems are used by MVNOs?

A: MVNOs can use various types of billing systems, including postpaid, prepaid, and hybrid billing systems. Postpaid billing involves the customer receiving a bill at the end of the month for the services used during that month. Prepaid billing involves the customer paying upfront for a certain amount of service that can be used within a specified time period. Hybrid billing combines both postpaid and prepaid billing systems.

Q: How are MVNO billing systems different from those used by traditional mobile network operators?

A: MVNO billing systems are different from those used by traditional mobile network operators because they are often less complex and more flexible. MVNO billing systems can be customized to meet the needs of the individual MVNO, whereas traditional mobile network operators typically use standard billing systems that are less flexible.

Q: What types of charges are typically included in MVNO bills?

A: MVNO bills typically include charges for voice calls, text messages, and data usage. In addition, some MVNOs may also charge for other services, such as international calls or value-added services.

Q: How do MVNOs calculate charges for data usage?

A: MVNOs typically calculate charges for data usage based on the amount of data used by the customer. The charges may be based on a tiered system, where the cost per unit of data decreases as the amount of data used increases. Alternatively, MVNOs may charge a flat rate for a certain amount of data usage per month.

Q: How do MVNOs handle international roaming charges?

A: MVNOs may handle international roaming charges differently, depending on their agreements with the mobile network operator that they lease network capacity from. Some MVNOs may charge customers for international roaming on a per-use basis, while others may offer international roaming packages that customers can purchase in advance.

Q: Can MVNO bills be paid online?

A: Yes, many MVNOs offer online bill payment options for their customers. This may include the ability to pay bills through the MVNO's website, mobile app, or through third-party payment processors.

Q: How are disputes over billing handled by MVNOs?

A: MVNOs typically have customer service teams that can assist customers with disputes over billing. Customers may be able to dispute charges by contacting customer service through phone, email, or chat. MVNOs may also have a formal dispute resolution process that customers can follow if they are not satisfied with the outcome of their initial dispute.

Q: What kind of billing services do you offer for MVNOs?

A: Clients want to know the types of billing services that a telecom MVNO billing service provider offers. This includes services such as customer management, service provisioning, usage tracking, rating and charging, and invoicing and payment processing.

Q: How much does your MVNO billing service cost?

A: Clients want to know the cost of MVNO billing services, including set-up fees, monthly fees, and transaction fees. They also want to know if there are any hidden costs or additional fees.

Q: How secure is your MVNO billing system?

A: Clients want to know how secure their data will be when using a telecom MVNO billing service. This includes data encryption, secure data storage, and protection against unauthorized access.

Q: What kind of customer support do you offer for MVNO billing?

A: Clients want to know what kind of customer support they can expect from a billing service provider for MVNOs, including the availability of technical support, customer service, and account management.

Q: How customizable is your MVNO billing system?

A: Clients want to know how customizable the MVNO billing system is and whether it can be tailored to their specific needs. This includes the ability to add or remove features, modify pricing plans, and create customized reports.

Q: How long does it take to implement your MVNO billing system?

A: Clients want to know how long it will take to implement an MVNO billing system, including the time required for integration, testing, and training.

Q: What kind of reporting and analytics do you offer for MVNO billing?

A: Clients want to know what kind of reporting and analytics they can expect from a billing service provider for MVNOs, including real-time usage reports, billing reports, and customer analytics.

Q: Can you integrate with our existing systems for MVNO billing?

A: Clients want to know if a billing service provider can integrate with their existing systems for MVNO billing, such as CRM, ERP, or financial management systems.

Q: How do you handle disputes or errors in MVNO billing?

A: Clients want to know how billing service providers handle disputes or errors in MVNO billing, including the process for resolving disputes, correcting billing errors, and issuing credits.

Q: How do you ensure compliance with regulatory requirements for MVNO billing?

A: Clients want to know how billing service providers ensure compliance with regulatory requirements for MVNO billing, including data protection regulations, consumer protection laws, and tax regulations.

5 Essential Features of a Telecom Billing System

The telecom industry has a market size of 1,707.96 billion and is expected to reach 2,467.01 billion by 2028. With the development of 5G technology, the demand for telecom billing software companies only increases. A larger customer base for MNVO providers means that greater resources are needed to track data and send invoices. This means billing for MVNO is more important than ever. By incorporating a reliable telecom billing system, telecom companies will have higher accuracy in their itemized bills. Knowing the available features will allow you to choose the right online charging system for your business.

Customer Relationship Management

Every telecom company needs a customer relationship management functionality because it helps personalize communication with your customers. As a result, it’ll boost engagement and convert more sales. A good billing system will manage the contact life cycle of every customer, handle customer-initiated contact, and oversee outbound contact. The CRM function can also perform many automated tasks, such as sending auto-reminders to subscribers to avoid late payments.

Identical Record Checking

Duplicate invoices can be quite a common occurrence for many telecom companies. A high-quality telecommunications billing software will help spot and prevent duplicates, so the company won’t ruin its reputation or lose customers. Double billing can even lead to eventual fraud investigation, which can hurt your business. The billing system can eradicate duplication by setting distinct identification with customer records such as date of birth, social security numbers, and invoice numbers.

Business Model Support

Not all telecom companies work the same way. Many have different business models such as usage-based, hybrid, pre-paid, and post-paid models. Telecom billing systems must be able to manage different services and different rate plans. In addition, it should offer event-based and session-based charging. Furthermore, the billing system can converge the different services and compile them into one bill for convenience.

Integration with Multiple Payment Gateways

Customers pay through their smartphones and use various online banks to pay for their bills. All of the best telecom billing systems have multiple payment options for subscribers to pay with. This makes cross-border payments easy and allows for greater convenience. Having integration with multiple payment gateways reduces the time and friction for customers to pay their bills, which can, in turn, lead to increased revenue. A billing system should have the most popular gateways integrated, such as Paypal, Western Union, Moneygram, etc.

Automatic Tax Calculations

Depending on the region of the telecom business, the tax structure will be different. This means a telecom billing system software must be able to automate tax calculations for their customers.

E-Bill Generation

Gone are the days of customers waiting for physical mail to check their bills. Paper bills have become instant throw-aways for most people. Billing in telecom should have an e-bill generation where the invoice can be viewed online using their smartphone or computer. This gives subscribers the ability to check their bills anytime.

At Telgoo5, we offer the essential features you need, so you can send out error-free invoices and place your focus on other core areas of your business.

7 Essential Features of Great MVNO Providers

MVNOs, or Mobile Virtual Network Operators, are a fantastic consumer option. Rather than owning their own wireless network infrastructure, MVNOs maintain relationships with infrastructure owners and then resell access to the end user. As middle-men, MVNOs handle the difficult negotiating and are able to provide advantageous packages to consumers based on the bulk pricing they receive. 

If you are considering working with an MVNO, make sure that you look for these 7 essential features. These are the things that make an MVNO provider great. 

1. Agreements with multiple networks for high speed access wherever their clients are. Some MVNOs have agreements with just one network, but great ones have agreements with multiple networks. This ensures coverage and redundancy, so that the end user never goes without the service they need. Working with an MVNO that maintains multiple agreements means better pricing, more coverage, and higher speeds.

2. Advantageous pricing since MVNOs do not need to pay to maintain their own wireless networks. Most people assume that MVNOs mark-up wireless communication access in order to make money off of their contracts. Amazingly, the opposite is true. Since MVNOs do not have to maintain their own wireless infrastructure, their business costs are significantly less than the companies that do own their own networks A great MVNO will then pass those savings along to the consumer, making MVNOs the more economical choice.

3. Provide perks like hotspot data, free gifts, and pricing promotions. Most people come to MVNOs for wireless network access, but some perks and incentives can change a satisfied customer to an elated customer. A great MVNO will offer their customer more reasons to love them. Things like hotspots, pricing promotions, and free devices can really move the customer satisfaction needle.

4. Customizable packages to meet consumer needs. The big wireless access providers that own their own networks tend to provide the same services to everyone, regardless of their individual needs. Their packages are rigid, and if they don’t work perfectly for you, you are expected to adapt as the consumer. MVNOs enjoy more freedom than that, and good ones will offer customizable packages.

5. Fantastic customer service. Large companies can be frustratingly hard to get in touch with when support is needed. It is not uncommon for consumers to sit on hold for hours on end before ever speaking to a rep. Since MVNOs do not have to maintain their own infrastructure, good ones choose to put their resources into fantastic customer support so that their customers can always quickly and easily reach out with frustrations and questions.

6. Easy to use online service. Most people today prefer to handle everything online, which is why the most successful MVNOs invest in online services rather than brick and mortar stores. The easier online services are to use, the happier the customer.

7. Strong marketing. Finally, great MVNOs make sure that the marketplace knows who they are! The biggest name in the industry are the companies that own their own networks. Most consumers do not even realize that MVNOs are an option. Great MVNOs market their advantages, and market them a lot in order to convert and maintain more customers.

5 Ways MVNOs Impact Your Business

When it comes to purchasing wireless communication, most businesses do not know where to start. All they know is that they need reliable Internet and phone services to support their business. Cursory research into wireless communication providers reveals too many acronyms and technical terms to understand, and most businesses wind up going with a sub-par solution just to cross the item off of their to-do list. Instead of throwing in the towel, consider using an MVNO for wireless communication. 

 An MVNO, or a Mobile Virtual Network Operator is a communication provider that does not actually own wireless network infrastructure. MVNOs purchase bulk access to infrastructure, and make it available to their own clients. Most MVNOs are complete businesses with their own marketing, sales, customer support, and billing platforms. In fact, you may purchase wireless communication through an MVNO without even realizing it. 

Below are 5 ways MVNOs may impact your business:

1. MVNOs negotiate rates. As a business, you probably do not have the time or ability to negotiate with wireless network infrastructure owners on your own. All you know is that you need wireless communication, and you need it at a reasonable rate. MVNOs purchase access in bulk, which means they do the rate negotiation for you. They then present you with prices and packages that your business can utilize. Every day, MVNOs save businesses time and effort by negotiating bulk rates before repacking it for their clients.

2. MVNOs handle wholesale variables. If anything changes at the wholesale level, an MVNO will understand it and handle it, keeping your business completely insulated from changes in the market. Wireless communication is a dynamic market, which means that MVNOs commit to staying on top of significant changes so that their clients do not have to.

3. MVNOs offer simple billing. The use of wireless communication can vary drastically over any given day, week, month, or year. This can make billing very complicated. In contrast, MVNOs purchase bulk access to wireless communication infrastructures, and often pass that type of purchasing on to their customers. With an MVNO you are paying for access at a negotiated rate. You are not accountable for every single minute of communication you use. This makes billing simple and easy to understand.

4. MVNOs can tailor their packages to your needs. Since MVNOs do not need to maintain their own networks, they have the freedom to create more tailored solutions for their clients. They have the funds and the resources to create custom packages, which makes them a fantastic option for most businesses.

5. MVNOs provide a better customer experience. As a reseller, MVNOs have the capacity to dedicate significant resources to customer care and support. You are more likely to get personal, dedicated support from an MVNO than from an MNO (Mobile Network Operator).

So if your business needs inexpensive, highly customized, well-supported wireless communication, consider purchasing through and MVNO. The hard part is simply remembering what MVNO stands for. The rest is easy. So contact an MVNO today and get your business communication off the ground in no time.

What makes a successful MVNO

Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) play a crucial role in the market. They operate as the middlemen between mobile network operators who own wireless network infrastructures, and the end users who want to access wireless communications services. Every day, people rely on MVNOs to place calls without even realizing it. The mark of a good MVNO is its ability to reliably and seamlessly provide services such that all but the most savvy customers do not even realize that they are a part of the service equation. If you are considering entering the MVNO space, it is important to understand what success looks like, and the steps you will need to take in order to be successful.

Here are three more qualities that make a successful MVNO:

Reliability:

Frustration surrounding dropped calls is largely universal. When people today pick up their phones to make a call, they are not thinking about the incredible technology that allows them to reach anyone, anywhere, at any time. They do not consider the satellites circling the globe, the wireless network infrastructures that had to be created, or how that infrastructure is leveraged in a way that allocates network connection to them. MVNOs fit into that last and final part of the equation. They ensure that the technology and infrastructure that supports wireless communication is actually delivered to the end user in ways that make them usable. Technology and infrastructure do an end user no good if they cannot access it and use it. A good MVNO ensures connection every single time - without fail and without interruption. 

Cost-Effectiveness:

By purchasing bulk access to network services at wholesale rates, MVNOs can provide customized service at price points that work for their target markets. For example, the big 4 providers (AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, and T-Mobile) may not offer customized plans at the same level that MVNOs can. If your target market is price sensitive, as an MVNO you can slice and dice services in a way that is less expensive to the end user, and will therefore drive them to choose you over a large provider. 

Strong Relationships:

Successful MVNOs maintain fantastic relationships with the mobile network operators they purchase from. The fact is that MVNOs cannot exist without MNOs, so it is important for MVNOs not to bite the hand that feeds. Strong relationships led to better rates, quicker problem solves, and more services that MVNOs can eventually pass on to their clients. MVNOs that breed tension with MNOs do not last very long in the marketplace. This space is competitive, so in order to ensure success MVNOs have to network effectively.

How Telgoo5 Supports MVNOs:

Telgoo5’s modular platform offers an Omni Channel CRM, billing, online charging, and a payment engine that drives many of the global brands in the MVNO space. We handle business logistics so that MVNOs do not have to. We support connections between MVNOs and their target audience, and we are so effective that most end users do not even realize we are there. If you are looking to launch and/or maintain a successful MVNO, you need to work with Telgoo5.

Operating Your Own MVNO Platform? Here are a Few Tips to Keep in Mind

If you run your own mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) platform or have done your research to Become MVNO, you may instantly agree that managing such a network is no mean feat. From resolving problems to meeting expectations, you have to go through difficult challenges every single day to keep your MVNO Platform going. At the surface, it may seem as easy as finding a proper mobile virtual network enabler (MVNE) and being done with the task. But in reality, it goes far beyond that essential requirement.

To help you run your MVNO service with ease, here are a few tips to ensure its smooth operations. Learning them will help you strike a perfect balance between your MVNO and MVNE expectation and delivery, respectively.

Ensure Your Data Services is Up to Par

In today’s day and age, where smartphones are increasingly replacing high-end computers, you must provide high-speed Internet through your MVNO platform.

In 2018, nearly 69.3 percent of global users subscribed to mobile data services. With many MVNOs focusing on affordable content delivery through specially designed data packages, you need to make sure that your data services are up to par as well.

To ensure that you aren’t falling behind your competitors, gather their data rates through extensive market research. Then, compare them with your current MVNE, its quality of service, and your public prices. Crafting competitive data packages and delivering faster internet speeds allows you to become an MVNO service that is a perfect fit for modern mobile users.

Make Sure That You Offer Accurate Billing

Whether you want to become MVNO or already running your platform, you must offer accurate billing services to your customers.

This concept applies to both postpaid and prepaid users, who want to use reliably billed services that steer clear of duplicate charges, late deductions, or incorrect costs. Not providing such services can lead you to receive customer complaints, refund requests, and even cancellations – all of which could be avoided by making your billing as accurate as possible.

With this in mind, make sure that your MVNO and MVNE are capable of delivering precise and easy to understand billing for every customer. This concept doesn’t only keep your customers happy, but also saves your staff from handling an influx of inquiries or complaints that arise from ambiguities in billing.

Save an Ample Amount for Marketing

Even if you find a reliable MVNE for your MVNO platform, set up your virtual infrastructure, and launch your services publicly, it doesn’t amount to tangible success if no one knows about what you are offering to them.

With nearly 140 MVNO brands in the U.S. alone, the competition is nothing less than fierce in this segment of wireless services. When you add the national carriers, namely AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon, this picture gets even more severe. But while it may seem daunting to establish yourself as the primary solution for those seeking an MVNO, it is not that difficult when you follow a holistic marketing plan.

That is why you must allocate ample resources towards marketing to reach out to your target audience. Choosing the right service which can help spread the word for your MVNO platform is essential in this regard. This concept makes sure that you are not just spending money down the drain, but that it is returning the required results to you in terms of new subscriptions.

At Telgoo5, we specialize in helping MVNOs scale to their desired level of success. Whether you run an existing MVNO service or want to become MVNO, we can help you build your digital infrastructure and reach your target audience. This concept makes us a holistic service that is fit for all your needs.

Whether you want a demonstration of our services, or want to discuss more details, feel free to reach out to us today. We will be glad to answer any questions you have and help you deploy modern MVNO solutions that cater to your specific needs.

How to Find Reliable MVNO Billing Solutions

If you run your own mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) service, then you would be able to identify with the many issues that the sector brings to the table.

Whether it’s poor MVNO service or poor infrastructure, these problems can have a grave effect on the overall growth of your operations. But perhaps the most pressing issue comes in the form of subpar MVNO billing solutions.

It’s because not having an accurate MVNO billing contributes to a host of other issues. A sense of distrust by your customers, redundant processes regarding refunds, and an affected flow of revenue are all part of this equation.

That is why, for your MVNO operations to scale according to your expectations, you must have a reliable billing solution provider. But given that MVNO is a growing market and now has a plethora of providers, finding a credible entity isn’t as easy as it should be.

To help make the process easier for you, here are a few tips to help you find reliable MVNO billing solutions. Following them will help you discover solutions that help your operations every step of the way.

Check if the MVNO Solutions are Cloud Based

Instead of going through generic and obvious factors of credibility, such as the provider’s years of operations in the sector, the smarter approach is to look for more modern aspects in the MVNO service. This concept includes checking for cloud compatibility or support in your MVNO billing system.

It’s because billing systems that are based on cloud come with an array of benefits. For starters, they are safe from failures that arise from the dependency of physical infrastructure. They offer easier accessibility to your systems. And they also provide you with more security. As a result, you can steer clear of many common billing issues from the get-go. This notion also allows you to provide your customers with a higher quality of service.

Keeping this in mind, making sure that your MVNO billing solutions are cloud based is the first and most essential step in finding a reliable service.

Ensure That It Offers Convergent Billing

In today’s day and age, any MVNO service needs to offer convergent billing solutions.

Since most customers often use a mix of different voice, text, and data bundles, premade packages do not always work for the modern user. This is why you need to make sure that your customers are not only able to change their MVNO packages on the fly but that they are billed accurately when they do so.

This notion also helps you sort your charges in a consolidated format, which makes it easier for you to bill your customers according to usage and steer clear of duplicate and incorrect charges.

As a result, you and your customers can enjoy an absolute peace of mind that can only come with a reliable MVNO billing service.

Check If It Serves Both Prepaid and Postpaid Services

Reliable MVNO billing solutions are meant to take care of all your MVNO needs. That is why the ideal billing service is not focused on just one area of MVNO operations. Instead, it is designed to be a holistic solution for every segment of the service.

Keeping this in mind, you need to make sure that your MVNO service is supported by a billing solution that caters to prepaid connections just as well as postpaid customers.

This notion ensures that you don’t have to run around operating several billing solutions for different kinds of connections. A service that takes care of all your customers truly translates to a solution that you can rely upon.

At Telgoo, we provide a holistically designed MVNO billing service that doesn’t only help you run your operations with ease, but also assists you in growing them over time. With cloud connectivity, easy to use software, and multiple types of billing solutions, we can provide your MVNO with the reliability that you are looking for in your search.

Whether you want MVNO billing solutions for your up and coming service or need to use them for your existing network, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today. We will be glad to discuss your needs and help you benefit from personalized solutions right away.

Steps to Starting Your Own MVNO

Running an MVNO you have started is not a simple task. This does not mean you should stop pursuing this kind of business. All you need is to have steps that can ensure you do not fail before you begin. So what do you need to know?

Starting Out

An MVNO, like any other business, is risky. Clients will expect you to provide several services that will not fail from day one. With this in mind, you need to know the exact needs of your prospective customers before you begin. Once you understand their needs there is a need of being nimble in your response to maintain the current clientele while winning new ones.

The only way to succeed in starting is ensuring you make meticulous preparations. In essence, you need to have the following three things:

• A strategic and effective plan to allow you to reach your proposed target segment. This should include how to package and offer services to successfully get your message out there.

• Access to technology that will enable your business to deliver the services your target clients require during the kick-off.

• You also need to know how to quickly adapt your portfolio as demand for new services arises.

Crafting a Plan

Considering the specific dynamics of a market you are trying to reach is a complex task. Generally, there are two ways you can efficiently compete with your competitors.

The first step involves an intimate understanding of a particular set of clients. Access to detailed client information will help you better tailor services to suit their needs. For example, this can be bundling third-party digital services, tailored pricing and offering specific communication services to create an unparalleled service experience.

Secondly, you need to consider new services or a different way of offering your current services. As an MVNO that can identify pricing models, packaging solutions or services, you are on the right track to win clients from a wide range of various segments.

When you craft such a plan, you have made a crucial step to start your MVNO. You should not relax at this point. You need to make sure you learn from your clients to consistently improve your services.

Finding and Getting the Technology Required in Place

Once the plan has been crafted to perfection, the next step is ensuring you have access to technology that will efficiently work with the plan. The technology needed in this case includes those that are initially required and services you may require for you to grow as the market changes.

When you are selecting your technology platform, you need to make sure you will gain sufficient control and assistance over service configuration and creation. The telecom market can change at any time. It sometimes moves quickly, sometimes in a matter of hours. As an MVNO, you need to make sure you set up with a platform that will allow you to receive updates to your service packaging and portfolio as soon as they arise.

Bottom Line

At Telgoo5, we have the experience and professionalism required to help you start your own MVNO business. Our current clients regularly express their happiness in their decision to use our service to start their MVNO businesses. Contact us today so we can help you start an MVNO business that will not fail.

Does Your MVNO Give You the Best Service?

You have an MVNO that is working. So how do you know if you are getting the best service? There are several factors to consider that will help you know if you have the best service:

Does the MVNO support CDMA or GSM?

So you may be thinking of switching from your carrier to another. Cellular carriers use GSM or CDMA. The majority of MVNOs use both. Most phones work with CDMA or GSM. As an MVNO, you need to find a service that handles both. Take note some Motorola models, and most current generation Google-branded phones and iPhones have antennas that can use CDMA and GSM.

If you want your MVNO business to succeed, you need to connect with a carrier that supports GSM and CDMA. This way, you will ensure you do not lose clients who would prefer both systems.

Is a Mobile Hotspot Included in the Plan?

Longtime subscribers of MVNOs have some issues they would like addressed. For instance, they would like to know if a mobile hotspot is included. Users have tried to game MVNO systems with a third-party hotspot app. The problem is most, if not all, of these apps, do not work.

The truth is that a hotspot option, sometimes referred to as tethering, is not available with many MVNO service providers. Those that offer hotspots do not do so with lower-cost plans. This means you should check if the feature is included to ensure your subscribers get the service at competitive market rates.

Is Visual Voicemail Supported?

If your subscribers rely on or are accustomed to visual voicemail, make sure you can get it from your carrier. A good number of service providers do not offer the same. You may need to do due diligence to find out if they offer visual voicemail. Some subscribers find it tedious dialing into a voicemail archive to listen to one message after another.

Do Advanced Features Work?

Currently, most people have phones that support things like Wi-Fi calling or VoLTE (HD voice calls). They are great features for those who use them. However, most of the time they are network or phone-specific. Some MVNO service providers may not have them at all because advanced calling features are possible with specific phones.

Are You In Need of a Family Plan?

Most MVNOs cater to individuals. As such, a family plan may be a challenge to find. If you are getting into the MVNO business, you need to find a service that offers a family plan. Although most subscribers will not need a family plan, it is a good option to offer them. This way, you will have an extra edge over your competitors.

Bottom Line

These are five of the most crucial factors to consider when you are looking for an MVNO service provider. Not only will these increase the chances of success in your business, but they will also give an upper hand over your competitors. At Tegloo5 we have the best options to ensure the success of your MVNO business. Contact us today to get all of these features and more.

Customer Experience – A Key MVNO Differentiator

Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNO) are on a rise across the globe. According to the GSMA Intelligence report are a total of 1017 MVNOs in the world. Today MVNOs outnumber the total number of mobile network providers across the globe. In 2015 alone 210 MVNOs either shut down their business or merged with some other business. Start, peak, filtering, and stabilization is perhaps the expected business curve for MVNOs. Here to reach the point of stabilization and to sustain once stable MVNOs need to be smart and innovative.

Superior customer retention rate and ability to add new customers is now than ever before directly linked to ‘Experience’, which will help MVNOs stand out and receive higher ARPU. Many studies suggest operators differentiating themselves based on customer experience are likely to stay in business in the long run. According to Telesperience’s recent research into the MVNO market differentiator, better customer service has been cited by almost 67% of MVNOs.

Below are few innovative touchpoints with which MVNOs can differentiate themselves from the competition and delight their customers.

• Loyalty Programme: For a long time, loyalty programs have been used as differentiators by service providers across industries. They are a great way to award loyal customers and inspire loyalty amongst new customers.

• Customization: This is when an MVNO provides its users the flexibility to design their plans which will best suit their requirement.

• Control: Offer control to customers by providing them access to customer care portal and Mobile application through which they can get real-time data about their usage, talk time, subscription plan, etc.

• Localization and Personalization:

  • Target demographic segments by designing an offer for various demographic groups

  • Segmentation: design and develop segment-specific plans for corporates, schools, etc.

  • Design plans for expats, students, etc. with specialized features like unlimited talk time to selected numbers, free message service to their homeland, etc.

This is where a highly sophisticated billing system will play a key role in enabling MVNOs in creating customized plans with configurable product catalogs, visibility of usage to customers, allowing the customer to subscribe for services real-time and empowering them to discontinue services as and when they wish to. Telgoo5’s solutions will allow you to take absolute control of crucial area like billing and will allow you to create new services, bundle promotions and provide real-time data.

Companies using Telgoo5’s billing services have a competitive edge over others as Telgoo5’s billing system allows MVNOs to efficiently manage their billing and revenues. Our billing services will satisfy both the MNO and the customers. Billing services must be able to spot any instances of fraud and revenue leakage. Telgoo5’s Billing Services are apt to do this and will protect the MNO from any revenue loss due to frauds. Telgoo5’s billing system supports prepaid-postpaid integration method of billing. This feature makes the billing system all the more efficient and reliable. More and more MVNOs’ are showing an inclination towards billing systems that are powered by analytics which will empower them to get accurate reports on subscription, revenues, customer retention, and churn. Telgoo5’s billing system is equipped with all these special features, to know more please visit www.telgoo5.com

The Difference between an MNO and MVNO

MNO and MVNO are both mobile operators who provide communication services to their clients. The biggest distinction between the two is that MNO can operate independently while MVNO will need MNO so it can fully function. Both MNO and MVNO being mobile networks, they are able to provide services such as voice calls, billing services, and customer care services (among other services) to end-users. An MNO can be able to provide these services to end-users on its own, but since an MVNO cannot be able to use its own frequency, MVNO results to buying radio spectrum from Mobile network operators. Below are the features of both of these communication services.

Features of an MNO vs those of MVNO

1. MNO operates from its own radio spectrum and has a license from the government to operate through it. When it comes to the assets that the MNO requires in order to provide services to its end users the MNO owns them all.

When it comes to the MVNO assets; MVNO either owns some of these assets – it ends up getting a lease for some of the assets from the MNO. There is also the possibility of an MVNO owning none of the assets and it ends up leasing all of the assets from MNOs. When MVNO leases assets from an MNO it is either in bulk or at a wholesale price. The MVNO has the option of letting the MNO provide customer care and billing services for them or MVNO provide the services themselves.

2. MNO buys its Network equipment from willing sellers and uses them to set up their own cellular or mobile network.

MVNO on the other hand purchases bulk packages at wholesale prices; these packages include data and minutes. MVNO basically acts as a reseller. After buying the packages they are branded and the services now offered belong to the MVNO. The communication services are then offered to users by MVNOs.

3. MNO offers support and customer care services to subscribers. MNO can offer customer care services to MVNOs subscribers. However, MVNOs can also offer customer care support services of their own and offer their own subscribers the support that they need, this includes answering any questions that they are likely to have in regards to the services being offered by the MVNOs.

4. Before making the equipment available MNOS first tests them to see if they are working and if they are in good condition. MVNOs being resellers do need to test if any equipment is working since they buy bulk packages to sell to their own end users. The types of equipment that they use for their own network coverage are already tried and tested.

5. Since MNOs have to bear the cost of putting up their own towers and so they can ensure that their clients have access to network coverage they are likely to charge more compared to MVNOs.

MVNOs will give cheaper services to its end users since it does not have to bear with the cost of putting up any equipment. They lease the equipment of the MNOs at a certain cost and they are able to give their services to subscribers in the same way.

Advantages and disadvantages of both network providers

Advantages of MVNOs

• Since the MVNOs do not have to bear the cost that comes along with putting up towers, they can be able to offer cheaper services compared to those offered by the MNOs.

Disadvantages of MVNOs

• As a subscriber using MVNO you are likely to have a low reception if you are in a place that is crowded. This is because postpaid customers are likely to get priority from towers compared to clients using MVNOs or those using prepaid services.

Advantages of MNOs

• Since they have their own towers on the ground they have wide coverage and can offer high-speed connection.

Disadvantages of MNOs

• Due to the cost associated with the putting up of towers their services are likely to be more expensive.

There are people who see MNOs and MVNOs as competitors; however, they are not – they both need to work together. Both network providers with their differences, advantages, and disadvantages can only work together successfully if they maintain a strong partnership with one another.

5 Key Aspects of a Billing System

While operating a business it is important to have a great billing system. If the bills are paid on time, then it ensures that the business is running smoothly. Lateness when it comes to the release of funds will not help in keeping the business afloat. Depending on the options that you have available, which may include payments via small installments or monthly payments, it is important to keep track of the funds coming in and out of the business. A good billing system needs to have certain key qualities that will help you keep track of payments. Cellular network operators need to consider the kind the elements the billing system that they will decide to implement possesses. A billing system is key to running a good business. Here are some of the important components of a good billing system.

Aspects of a billing system

1. Does your billing system have billing codes?

It is important for cellular networks to have billing codes since they offer an array of services. They include; data, voice calls, and message among others. When you have a code for each of the services that your business provides you can be able to keep track of the payments. Codes will also help you to be able to determine which services clients prefer most since they will purchase them more than the others. You should have billing codes which are in line with your business and which can help your subscribers pick out product and services easily.

2. A billing system should be able to track payments

Tracking the payment of your clients is a very important aspect of a billing system. If the billing system is operated from a computer whereby all the details are available it will be easy to keep track of the payments. The billing system should have an option which will enable you to send reminders to users a few days to the payment so they can remember to make payments on time. Employees will be able to keep track of clients who do not pay on time and send them reminders to make their payments. If the defaulters have gone past an agreed period the employees can be able to keep track of that and they will be able to impose an extra fee. The system should be able to allow the provider to contact the subscribers who have not made their payments and remind them to pay. This can be done by sending a message or via a phone call conversation.

3. It should be able to verify the users’ information and store their data

A network provider should have the data of its providers in their database. That includes their names, their address, their payment terms as well as any other information that is necessary. After collecting the information of their subscribers, they should also collect information that pertains to the product and services that the subscriber is using. Entering this data will help with easy retrieval of information where necessary.

4. It should be secure

Information entered into the database of any network provider about a subscriber is sensitive. The information should not be shared with anyone else and it should not be easily retrieved by any third parties. It is important for a billing system to be regularly updated in order to avoid access by hackers.  The information should only be accessed by users who have permission to access it. What payment methods are you accepting? If you are accepting payment methods such as credit cards you will have to ensure that you adhere to the standards which have been set by the industry.

5. Affordability

When you invest in a billing system that seems to cost less you are likely to incur technical hitches which involve disconnections. However, thinking long term and investing in a solution that is integrated will cost you less in the long run.

A billing system will help you keep your business on track and you will be able to retrieve information easily when you need it. You should list down some of the concerns that you have as a business providing communication services so you can understand what is most important when you are considering a billing system for your business.

Billing for MVNOs and MNOs

Both MVNOs and MNOs offer communication services to their subscribers even though MVNO have to buy bulk minutes and data from MNOs in order to cater to their users. MVNOs and MNOs perform similar functions such that most users do not know that MVNOs need to purchase bulk packages from MNOs in order to cater to them.  They perform functions such as;

• Issuing and activation of Sim cards

• Have branding and marketing

• Billing

• They set their own tariffs

• Offer customer care and support to subscribers

Due to the services offered by the two network providers to their subscribers, it is important for them to have a billing system. MVNOs rely on MNOs interconnect billing services.

Interconnect billing system for MVNOs

A majority of the MVNOs depend on the MNOs Interconnect billing system because they do not have their own. The interconnect billing system keeps track of income and spending as well as the demand in the price for airtime. Since the MNO will have a part in the operations of the MVNO, they can outsource an independent vendor. The vendor who will keep track of how data is being processed will help to ensure that both the MNOs and MVNOs get a fair share of their earnings.

When MVNOs receive incoming calls they charge the MNOs an amount of money that is less compared to the airtime charge. The fee charged can be termed as an interconnect termination fee. The termination fee of both the MNO and the MVNO is similar to the fee which the operator is charged.

In case of an outgoing call, the MNO will receive an imposed payment that is less than the airtime charge by the terminating operator.

MNOs

In the present day for any business to be able to maximize the profits that it is making day in and out, they need to have a billing system that will help in the charging of prepaid services. More and more people are purchasing smartphones and using them for data. Previously, a lot of mobile users would spend a big amount of their funds on voice calls as well as messages; however, there has been a change. In the era whereby everyone is on their laptops, tablets, smartphones as well as other internet devices, data is likely to be what most users are highly spending on.

That is why network operators put up good billing systems that help them in keeping track of their earnings and as well keep a record of their client’s information. Cloud-based systems and the Internet of things help when it comes to billing operations.

MVNOs

MVNOs have been in operation for several decades now and even though there have been speculations that they would be run out of the market they are still growing. In certain countries, MVNOs are dominant. MVNOs still depend on MVNEs to act as intermediaries. Those who can be able to predict the future based on their own careful analysis speculate that MVNOs are moving towards a huge digital transformation whereby they will be able to have control over their own data by owning it and being able to manage their own billing systems.

MVNOs can either choose to;

• Buy bulk services at wholesale prices from MNOs, brand them, and then resell them to their subscribers.

• Brand their services and make them available for users to purchase with MVNEs helping them to provide the services to end-users at a fixed commission.

• Sell their products and services and pay the MVNE based on the profits they get from their end-users.

Regardless of the options that MVNOs choose they will still be expected to pay a deposit to MVNE followed by monthly payments.

Since both of these network operators offer a variety of services, billing is not an option but a requirement. MNOs can be able to carry out their own billing hence they can be able to keep track of the progress that their business makes. MVNOs, on the other hand, will require MVNEs to act as intermediaries between them and the end-users. MVNOs should be able to choose which option will work best for them when it comes to their billing requirements.

Step By Step Instructions For How To Start Your Own MVNO

It’s hard to underestimate the importance of MVNO virtual network operators in the market. They are starting to outpace traditional providers and it’s really no surprise why! They offer customers tailored solutions, are generally less expensive, and can focus on niche markets.

It’s only logical that MVNO solutions are emerging as a powerhouse in the telecom space. Today’s customers require an unprecedented level of choice and customization, and smart MVNOs understand how to make that happen. That being said, starting up your own MVNO is a little trickier than it might seem!

Understand The Start-Up Funding Costs

You will need some capital to start up your own MVNO. There is a lot more that goes into it other than simply purchasing airtime and data. You need to partner with a company that will provide you with the support infrastructure to keep your customers happy and your business flowing. After all, you’ll need to field customer calls, implement a billing system, and account for emergencies like loss of service.

Funding is critical, so start thinking about where it will come from. There are several routes that you can take to get the money that you need to start up your MVNO.

• Angel Investors and Venture Capitalists- if you go this route, you’ll have to have a solid business plan in place that will show your investors how they will make money on the backend. Angel Investors and Venture Capitalists are not altruists, and they want to see a clear return on their investment. Scoring venture money is great, but you need to have all of your ducks in a row.

• Crowd-funding- you can go on any number of different crowd-funding platforms to try to raise money organically. You’ll have to present a tangible reward for people who contribute, so consider what you can offer carefully. Perhaps it’s the ability to get in at the ground floor, a few free months of service, or even a small share in the company.

• Self-funding- if you are able to swing the startup costs yourself, do it!

Know What Sets Your MVNO Apart

Like any other business venture, successful MVNOs rely on the ability to speak directly to their niche and deliver products that they want. Think about who you want to target and offer plans directly for them. For example, if you’re targeting Millenials, you might want to have plans that are heavy on data and texting, but lighter on actual phone call time.

Additionally, think about your niche when you choose an outsourcing call center. If your customers have concerns, and they will, you’ll want to have reps who can speak with them in their language. Millennials value instant gratification, so call center employees who can use Live Chat and Social Media will be better equipped to deal with their needs. (v)WeCare reps are skilled in all new technology, which is what makes us a great partner for companies that want to reach younger demographics.

Find A Good MVNE

Finally, you’ll need a supportive partner that can handle all of your back office outsourcing needs. The last thing that you want is for your customers to suffer because you don’t have your administrative ducks in a row! Get yourself an MVNE that can support you on the backend.

Don’t try to take on MVNO billing, customer service, and all of the other infrastructure needs that go with running a successful MVNO on your own. In the best case scenario, you’ll burn out. The worst case scenario is that customers will flee and give you terrible reviews. Not working with a quality MVNE can sink your business. Telgoo5 has years of experience helping MVNOs scale effectively while handling all customer needs from soup to nuts. We deal with billing, customer problems, security, and infrastructure. Our comprehensive MVNO billing software is really second to none and offers seamless billing with all customer data backed up in the cloud. We also conduct weekly calls with all of our MVNO partners so you’re always in the loop. If you’re going through a rapid scaling phase, we’re flexible, equipped and able to transition smoothly. Our mission is to make you look like a superstar to your customers, and we have a proven track record of success! Telgoo5’s billing system was designed to be all about you- our trusted partner!

Starting an MVNO can seem a little bit daunting, but it’s doable if you follow the steps outlined in this article. Why not be on the cutting edge of a brand new industry?

Why MVNO’s Are offering unique solutions from Traditional Service Providers

More and more people are jumping on the MVNO bandwagon, and frankly it’s really easy to understand why! MVNOs offer so many solutions that are just refreshing in the age where we feel like we’re constantly getting nickel and dimed by our telecom provider.

MVNOs, or mobile virtual network operators, allow you to have substantial flexibility with your plan while paying far less than you would with a traditional provider. Let’s look at the unique solutions that MVNOs are providing- and one challenge that they have when it comes to competing with the big companies.

You’ll Save Money

The number one reason why people switch to MVNOs is to save money. Since MVNOs have less overhead, they can sell you service for a lower rate. You’ll often find MVNO plans to be far lower than those of traditional carriers, and as a bonus, they’ll come with far fewer fees!

Since many of us find our phone bill to be one of the biggest expenses of the month, a chance to cut back on this big bill is a welcome relief! Many MVNOs give you excellent service for a fraction of what you spend on a “regular” phone bill over the course of your month. That alone is incentive enough to switch!

MVNOs that partner with good MNVE’s like Telgoo5 offer you all of the services that you’d expect from traditional companies, like seamless billing, great customer service and uninterrupted service. You won’t sacrifice quality when you opt for an MNVE!

You Can Select Your Plan

Talk about getting the best of all worlds! The big telecom companies are famous for letting you customize your plan- for a cost. MVNOs give you the option of choosing your plan, but for a fraction of the cost. There are certain MVNOs that also serve niche markets, so they have specific plans that cater to different demographics. Simply by doing a little research, you’ll be able to get the right plan for you!

Telgoo5 offers itemized biling so you can see exactly what you’re paying for. This is a huge perk when you are customizing your plan!

There Are Generally No Contracts

One major are that MVNOs differ from traditional providers is that they do not hold their customers to contracts. The big providers will often rope you into a multi-year contract with big penalties if you cancel it! You don’t have to worry about that with MVNOs. If you want to switch your provider, you can.

MNVOs offer the best of both worlds. As they are generally affiliated with MNVEs like Telgoo5, you can expect professional service and white-glove treatment without the pesky contracts of the bigger companies.

You Can Use Any Device That You Want

Guess what? MVNOs welcome all different phone devices into the fold. Most of them will allow you to use any device with their plans, meaning that you don’t have to purchase a specific phone in order to tap into what your MVNO has to offer. Since phone plans are often a huge part of your monthly bill with traditional providers, consider this to be a huge bonus. MVNOs are much more flexible than the more traditional options.

Even so, you’ll still get itemized bills that go through all of your transactions in detail. Companies like Telgoo5 utilize sophisticated billing software that works specifically with each MNVO to make sure that all of their customers are being served properly.

But… What’s The Catch

We promised that we’d discuss one challenge that MVNOs have as they stack up to traditional carriers. MVNOs usually have less on-site infrastructure, which allows them to pass on savings to their end customers but also means that they have   when it comes to customer service and billing. In short, MVNOs have trouble scaling properly because they don’t have the infrastructure in place to support large expansions.

Customers do not want to lose service, have trouble with their billing, or not be able to speak with a customer service representative when they need to. That’s why smart MVNOs turn to MVNEs like Telgoo5 that can provide them with the infrastructure that they need to run behind the scenes! Telgoo5 is an MVNE that makes sure all of the bases are covered for your MVNO, including billing with secure gateways, consistent communication, and a full service back office call center. We pride ourselves on having a billing system that’s all about you- the end customer!

What Are Customers Looking For In An MVNO

With phone bills and costs skyrocketing, many customers are looking for alternatives to phone service, and one of the places that many of them are flocking are MVNOs.

MVNOs offer great service at discounted prices, which is what makes them so attractive to customers all over the country. Unfortunately, MVNOs get a bad rep from time to time. That’s because they are sometimes maligned as being less professional as traditional carriers.

Customers who switch to MVNOs are looking for providers who can give them phone service at a lower cost, as well as providers that give them consistent service. They also don’t want any nasty surprises on their bills. How can you set your MVNO apart from the rest?

Uninterrupted Service

Your customers expect uninterrupted service from their MVNO of choice. This is literally the number one thing that they want from you. If your service is spotty or their calls keep getting dropped they will go elsewhere.

It’s important to keep the end-customer experience in mind, especially when you’re scaling quickly. If you don’t have the proper infrastructure in place, you’ll wind up causing problems for your customers and losing them quickly. That’s why it’s really important for MVNOs to pair up with MVNEs that can scale rapidly. Telgoo5, a division of (v)WeCare, knows that API failures can lead to lack of service, which is why we put a special premium on being able to scale with your company. That way, you can rest easy that none of your customers are losing service!

Great Customer Service

As with any other type of business, MVNOs have to have top-notch customer service. Customer queries, questions and complaints will come in through a variety of different channels, including traditional phone calls, live chat and social media channels. Be prepared to deal with an influx of contact from your customers, especially if you are scaling.

(v)WeCare customer service reps are uniquely positioned to be able to scale with your MVNO and provide the best customer service available over a number of different channels. Our reps are also schooled in all of your product offerings and able to act independently to solve customer problems. This level of excellent customer service will set your MVNO apart from others!

Organized And Itemized Billing

One of the biggest customer fears about MVNOs is that they will get charged exponential fees for services like roaming or WiFi usage. These fears are often unfounded, but have been drilled into the heads of your potential customers by traditional phone carriers that don’t want to lose the business. It might be an unfair stigma, but it is one that you’ll have to deal with if you want to be a successful MVNO.

You will need to pair up wiith an MVNE that has a sophisticated billing system that is both professional and very clear to the end customer. Telgoo5’s billing system puts a premium on being transparent and professional, so the customer always knows what they’re paying for. There are no surprises in the bills and they come out every month right on time. As your MVNO adds more services, smart MVNEs like Telgoo5 will work with you to work them into the billing. Part of smart scaling is being able to bill your customers in a timely and accurate fashion. Telgoo5 can help you with that!

Secure Payment Gateway

Finally, your customers will need a secure payment gateway to pay their bills. Nobody wants to put their credit or debit card information into a website that might not be totally secure, so smart MVNOs will make sure that their payment gateway is secure, SSL compliant and easy to use. That way, customers will feel compeletely comfortable putting in their information.

Just like (v)WeCare, Telgoo5 prides itself on security and offers MVNO customers several different payment gateways for transactions. Your customers will know that their precious credit card information is safe when they pay onlilne. This will help them feel secure with your MVNO and be more inclined to recommend you to others!

MVNOs are relatively new platforms so many customers are a little gun-shy. Help them get more at ease with your MVNO by taking the suggestions in this article to heart!

Is Your Billing On Point

Billing is one of those things that businesses sometimes don’t give a lot of thought to, but smart companies in the telecom industry know that consistent and accurate customer billing is one of the cornerstones of a successful MVNO.

Some MVNOs handle billing in-house, tasking one or two staff members with what should realistically be the job of an entire department. The truth is, your if your billing is not on-point, your customers will suffer and look for other MVNO’s to get their service from. Since telecom billing is notoriously tricky, smart companies trust their billing to expert MNVEs.

Look For Flexibility

The telecom industry is always shifting and changing, which puts MVNOs in a challenging situation when it comes to billing, especially if they are poised to start scaling. As you get more end customers, your billing needs are going to adapt to different business situations. You need an MVNE that can adapt with you and offer real-time solutions to your customer’s needs. Smaller organizations simply don’t have the bandwidth to be able to support the level of growth that most MVNOs will experience, leading to customer frustration and annoyance on the part of the MNO.

At Telgoo5, we understand the importance of flexibility and ability to scale. Our sophisticated infrastructure was built to withstand shifting company demands and rapid scaling. What’s more, we can offer all of our MVNO partners CRM and BSS as well as a real-time view of business performance and trends!. Many of our long-term MVNO partners are US based companies that love working with us because they know that they will be able to scale with us and, we will be there to support their needs in a prompt and outstanding manner!

Look For Added Value

If you have an in-house billing department, or if you contract out to a smaller or less flexible MVNE, you won’t necessarily get bare-bones service, but you also won’t get all of the perks that come alongside working with a company that can address all of your needs on multiple fronts. Distribution and inventory management goes hand-in-hand with billing, and if your chosen MVNE doesn’t have the capacity to handle all three, you’ll have to find another one to attend to these services. Anyone who runs a business knows that dealing with multiple vendors can be costly and time-consuming.

Telgoo5 offers distribution and inventory as value added services to their billing plan, so you won’t need to be hopscotching between different vendors to get your customers the services that they need. With us, you can rest easy that it will all be handled in one secure, professional place!

Support Is Key

It’s hard to over-emphasize the importance of quality customer and tech support. You and your chosen MVNE are a team, and it should feel like a partnership. This is especially true if you’re scaling, taking on new customers or dealing with additional products. Customers depend on detailed, accurate and itemized bills for their telecom service, so you need to know that your MVNE has your back. That’s why you should be in regular contact with your MVNE about billing and other areas of your business.

At Telgoo5 we pride ourselves on taking our relationship with all of our MVNOs very seriously. You have an account manager who is responsible for handling your needs, and weekly calls to handle any concerns that might crop up. Additionally, we have an escalation procedure that is specifically designed to get to the root of any problem as efficiently and effectively as possible. We prioritize consistency and organization because we know that they are the cornerstones of a successful MVNO/MVNE relationship.

Anyone in the telecom industry knows that billing can be the trickiest part of the business. When you’re dealing with multiple customers and a host of different services, getting billing down perfectly poses something of a challenge. That’s why it is imperative to make sure that your billing is on point. The best way that you can do that is linking up with a smart MVNE that has your best interests at heart. Let an MVNE like Telgoo5 take billing off your plate so that you can focus on growing your business!

The Secret to Starting a Successful MVNO

Today, more new MVNO are being started than ever before. Fierce Wireless, an online publication reports that new MVNOs are being launched every week and interest in this business type is eclipsing the 2005-2006 craze that saw numerous high-profile MVNO startups. With numerous new entities rushing start their own MVNOs, many will inevitably fail to make a mark in the long run. To succeed in this competitive space, startups need to plan meticulously and identify the right niche in the market. Although the process is similar to starting any other business, they are unique procedures that you need to weather to start your own MVNO. If you are mulling starting an MVNO, it is important to identify the challenges that may curtail your success. Read on to explore the process, the unique challenges that await you, and get tips on how to smoothly start your own MVNO.

Starting Your Own MVNO – Similar to Starting Other Businesses

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To start your own MVNO, you will in  in many respects follow the same procedures like when starting any other business. To succeed, the following steps are critical:

Carving Out a Niche

It is likely that your up and coming MVNO will offer services that eerily similar to the offerings of other players already in the business. While the prospect of facing stiff competition discourages many potential entrepreneurs, it also presents opportunities to creative players. The only viable strategy for most new MVNOs is carving out a niche in the market and chipping away at and winning over customers from the other established providers. Indeed data from Strategy Analytics indicates that MVNOs in the current market conditions succeed by focusing on addressing particular market segments or value propositions.

MVNOs can thrive when they identify a certain set of services or pricing models that are not currently in the market. But deploying this strategy requires extensive knowledge about the set of customers that you will target. This insight is what will enable the company to tailor its offerings to the unique needs of the target segment. Common niches that can be targeted in the current environment include the following niches:

infrastructure MVNOs

These types of MVNOs focus on covering an area where major network providers don’t reach. For example, an MVNO may focus on providing the infrastructure to cover a mountain range where other network operators have no reach.

Retail MVNOs

These types of MVNOs target supermarkets and departmental stores to find subscribers to buy their sim cards.

Advertising-based MVNOs

These offer discounted services and some free services and in return they get access to advertise or subscribers devices.

Discount MVNOs

These target deal hunters. Such companies only offer basic services like voice and text. Although such companies get little earnings per subscriber, the hope to get enough subscribers to get a reasonable profit.

Getting the Tech In Place

MVNOs thrive on technology and you need to put in place the infrastructure and software you will need to serve your customers before getting started. You will need to set up your IT platform and get your billing in place. It is at this point that the company also sets up a CRM, customer care and network management systems. You can be able to save time and human resources by outsourcing billing, customer care, and similar services. Our system Telgoo5 can free up an MVNO’s human resources to focus on other aspects of the business. We can handle the Call Detail Records (CDRs) for both real-time interface (prepaid) and batch process (postpaid) subscribers. We can also handle your billing, data analytics, and other aspects of the technology platform.

At this point, you can also set up the website where subscribers can sign up for your services. It is worth noting that it is important for a new MVNO to identify and only invest in the right technology tools for a company of its size. Underinvestment could result into service failure due to overloading. Overinvestment, on the other hand, can bleed the company dry. The easiest way to ensure that new MVNOs invest in what is enough is by linking up with a good OSS system. Our platform Telgoo5 allows access just what you need at the time. We can take care of your billing, CRM, subscriber website, customer care, and everything you need to get started. Partnering with us can help you to launch your MVNO in as few as four weeks instead of months.

Starting Your Own MVNO – The Unique Challenges

A Potentially Risky Business

A measure of risk is involved when starting any type of business. But the sheer complexity of the MVNO launching process coupled with intricacies involved in making partnerships and the fierce competition that awaits new entrants connive to make starting a new MVNO an especially challenging venture. The fast rate at which telecommunications technology becomes obsolete means that you risk investing in technology and fail to recoup the investment costs. Successful MVNOs reduce risk by targeting a specific niches. They make and strictly follow a plan that addresses the needs of subscribers in that particular niche. A good platform like Telgoo5 can enable you to scale according to your business needs. This will enable your business to avoid paying for resources they currently don’t need.

Getting Licenses

To start your own MVNO, you will encounter a number of challenges that are peculiar to the telecommunications sector. To start a new MVNO, you will need to register and be certified by the right authorities. Being certified will enable you to get MSISDN and IMSI blocks. In the US, this certification is done by the FCC. This process will is critical if you are to start operations. Telgoo5 platform meets and exceeds all the license and regulatory requirements. We have helped a number of MVNOs to fasttrack the certification process and would be happy to help MVNO startups that need guidance during this process.

Making Partnerships

The MVNO business type thrives on partnerships. You will need to work with mobile carriers or aggregators to get subscribers. Many MVNOs startups soon learn that the most difficult part starting operations is not getting capital or even setting up the technology platform. Inking contract with big telecom companies is perhaps the single toughest feast to accomplish.

Telecom companies usually insist on certifying different aspects of MVNO operations before committing to working with them. These certifications processes usually take months of back and forth dealings and they may put a tremendous strain on the patience of the new startup owners. However, some MVNOs may be able to bypass some of these processes by linking up with with MVNEs and other partners. The MVNO can then utilize their existing platforms carrier agreements to get started. Our platform Telgoo5 is already integrated with all the major carriers. We also have partnerships with a number of of aggregators and MVNEs. Signing up at our platform will help you to save time and money and you will be able to start operations in a couple of weeks.

Setting up an MVNO is a potentially complex endeavor that involves planning, setting up platforms, linking up with suppliers and, getting the required certifications. However, if you link up with a good OSS parner, the process can be dramatically simplified and you stand to save a lot of time and money along the way. At Telgoo5, we provide billing, CRM, customer care, and more services to MVNOs and other telecom companies. Over the years, we have helped new MVNOs to flourish. Whether you are an established MVNO, a new company, or just exploring ways to get started, we can tailor our services to fit your needs. Contact us to explore ways we can partner today.