subject: What Is A Non Geographic Number And What Are Ngns They Used For? [print this page] A large number of businesses and organisations in the public and private sectors in the UK have realised the potential of non geographic numbers to enhance their customer base and achieve growth. These numbers are virtual numbers that override existing landline or mobile phone numbers and can rerouted to any number without any additional expenses on hardware. For businesses, non geographic numbers such as 0800 numbers, 0845 numbers, 0871 numbers, and 0330 numbers are the ideal way to establish a national presence since their location cannot be determined due to the lack of area code. Moreover, Freephone Numbers such as 0844 numbers is the perfect way for businesses to develop a brand image and show customers that they care by picking up the cost of the call. Consumers can gain easy access to businesses as well as essential government agencies, payment services, and entertainment services.
There are 16 non geographic number ranges which are allocated and regulated by PhonepayPlus, the body authorised by Ofcom to oversee regulations. Every range has a specific numbering plan and pricing structure. The 0800 and 0500 number ranges are available for the private and public sector. These are freephone numbers where callers are permitted to call free of charge from landlines. The subscriber bears the cost of the call which can be as low as 2p per minute depending on the plan. In addition, Ofcom proposes to make these calls free from mobiles as well in 2013.
0843, 0844, 0871 and 0844 Numbers are widely used by public sector services, banks, tech support and information services. They are available with revenue-sharing options between the originating communications provider such as BT and the service provider. It is mandatory for the subscriber to display the call charges applicable to callers whenever they advertise their services.
The 0871 Numbers range was introduced in 2007, which includes 0845 Numbers that are available to the public sector and not-for-profit organisations. 0800 Numbers are available for businesses and other organisations. Calls to these numbers cost the same rate as charged by communications providers for geographic calls. Revenue sharing is not permitted in this number range. Other non geographic numbers include 09 numbers, known as premium rate numbers that are used by telemarketing services, chat lines, voting lines on TV, technical support, and similar services. Call rates to these numbers are currently capped at 1.53 per minute. Subscribers are required to comply with the guidelines set by PhonepayPlus.
