subject: Why Ofcom Needs To Educate Callers About Non Geographic Number Ranges [print this page] Why Ofcom Needs To Educate Callers About Non Geographic Number Ranges
It is really important that customers know about the different intelligent number series, so that they know the basic difference between the multitudes of plans they have - moreover, the cost of calling them and receiving calls on these systems are different too. Therefore, it makes sense to spend some time knowing about the different freephone numbers - 0300 numbers, 0330 numbers, 0800 numbers, 0844 numbers and 0845 numbers.
The average caller can find the concept of different non-geographic numbers very confusing and therefore, may be confused as to which one to get for his company. Further, he needs to know where to call a specific number series from. It might be cheaper to call a number from a BT landline rather than a mobile phone, and while receiving calls on some number series may be free, others charge for inbound calls.
It is expected of Ofcom, as the leader in telecommunication information, to educate callers on the different NGN ranges. The caller needs to know all possible details about the different NGN ranges available to him, so that he can choose between the series effectively, based on his requirement. Information pertaining to the user reviews, popularity of a specific range and the number of users for a specific range in the country, are all required, so that the caller can analyse the data and choose an option that lets him select the same range as his customers.
A common misconception about NGN ranges existed till sometime back before a widespread marketing campaign revealed to callers that the intelligent numbers can point to both landlines and cell phones. There are many questions from callers about the different features of these systems - Call Whisper, IVR and Call Statistics. These need to be explained to users to get them interested in the different intelligent number systems.
There is lack of clarity among consumers on the costs and they could be left wondering if this is really cost-effective. Ofcom should also take initiative and must educate the general public about the different plans available with different number ranges. Guides about the setting up cost, call cost and rental schemes for each month, should be the primary focus, since they seem to be among the frequently asked questions. Finally, a comparative analysis of regular phone lines and non-geographic numbers need to be provided, so that they can get an idea of how much money can be saved.
