Notes

New Metrics for Telecommunications


Telecommunications have been evolving along with technology. In the nature of the work in this field, it would either be keeping up with the trend or leading it. For the latter, many telecommunications operators have developed different metrics on their system to follow.

In already established telecommunications providers, there are metrics set up which are only being developed over time. But for start-ups and new digital companies, initiatives on finding the right metrics may be a big challenge.

Take for example XL Axiata, one of the top three largest telecommunications in Indonesia. As the company is already stable in their business, they are able to partner with other leading companies and brand to create a more established metrics available to many of its subscribers. By teaming up with Ericsson, both companies are able to identify the impact of Facebook and review any needed improvements, monitor data usage and stabilize the data traffic for the application.

Ericsson developed a series of metrics on end-on-end network experience as it impacts app coverage. Then, using a test agent developed by Facebook, typical Facebook interactions were triggered and measured on different mobile devices in urban, suburban and rural regions across the XL Axiata coverage area.

According to their most recent report, the test drive has “a total of six devices distributed in three clusters – urban, suburban and rural – within the XL Axiata network: Gambir in central Jakarta, Bintaro in suburban Jakarta and Tigaraksa outside Jakarta”.

On the other hand, the newly Axiata-affiliated Axis Capital Group keeps up through integrating new metrics method already developed by XL. Operational metrics lauded by Asia-Pacific ICT organization has also been integrated.

Metrics are a powerful tool that Communication Service Providers (CSPs) should use to foster sustainable commercial growth through validated learning. Unfortunately, many critics complain that metrics are often an “after-thought” and very few CSPs have implemented a consistent approach to metrics. Operators had been inconsistent in tracking digital innovation, at worst, negligent.

Operators themselves are competing to create a more innovative and robust strategy to cater to the rising demanding customers, ongoing price pressures exacerbated by fierce competition and the saturating traditional market. Sturdier metrics for improving business intelligence capabilities are needed for better decision making.

Newer metrics are also needed to maintain credibility and services to get ahead of fraudulent businesses establishing their names in the market. A more relevant report and market analysis are always in demand for more significant information needed in market investment, change in market condition and business models.