Intercity: Is Your Business Using the Right Mobile Tariff?

The global economic recession has hit hard. Everyone, especially businesses, have felt the pinch.

As a result businesses are under more pressure than ever to ensure funds are being well spent, and that value for money is high on the agenda.

The demand for communications has increased to such a level that the use of smartphone technology (in the form of BlackBerry® smartphones and HTC handsets amongst many others) is now the norm.

Modern smartphones continue to incorporate more features and usability options, which is perfect for a business environment. However repercussions can occur such as a rise in operating costs due to higher data usage plus traditional calls and SMS. This has made it all the more important for businesses to shop around for their mobile service providers to ensure they get best value.

Many service providers will offer bespoke price plans solely aimed at businesses. For example it isn't uncommon to see tariff formats such as "business flat rate" or a "business bundle".

A "business flat rate" uses a simple flat rate system which involves paying for the minutes that you use, minimising line rental and upfront commitments.

On the other hand, a "business bundle" tariff system is more suitable for those businesses that use their handsets on a consistent basis. It's incredibly flexible and allows for the customer to take control over both the voice minutes and cost.

Business Connectivity and mobile service providers in most cases provide detailed information on calls and costs incurred; allowing for organisations to scrutinise whether the best value for money is actually being had.

Access to mobile email and internet can also be added to most tariff price plans, ensuring staff can access business email on their mobile device - even at the most hectic of times.

Not all businesses fit into a single criteria, therefore tariffs do not either. The size, location, staff commitments and industry sector of the business should be deciding factors when choosing a mobile tariff.

It is important when shopping around for a tariff to consider the amount of minutes that are going to be used on a monthly basis; or how much is the mobile Internet going to be utilised to access business emails.

Taking note of these things will ensure that a business doesn't end up with an excessive mobile tariff package (one designed for a large organisation making lots of calls, if utilised by a sole trader would ultimately see money carelessly wasted).

A good number of the service providers operating in the current market can provide a consultation approach to ensure all requirements are met and keep costs to an expected level.
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Chris Bourne - Intercity is a leading independent service provider in the Business Connectivity market. Intercity offer business broadband and Vehicle Tracking that is easy to use and simple to install.