Q wrote on Mar 2
nd, 2013 at 4:47pm:
I'll try and do a better reply later once I have some more time;
Thanks for what you have given already.
Since 03 has been available we have no need to get into the functional reasons for using a particular type of number. We can say, quite simply, that if you want to utilise the features of a non-geographic number, then you either use a 03 number or declare and explain the imposition of a "Service Charge" - there is no need to get into the functional issues.
Although not directly related to the key campaigning focus (as given by the extended title of this site - "… and other rip-off numbers"), this is of passing interest to many followers of the forum and those of us who either fear, or may be excited by, the indirect consequences, as suggested in my previous post.
There are two hanging questions, which bear on these consequences:
Would a user of this feature be inclined, or even encouraged, to use a 084/087/09 number, so as to fund it at the expense of callers?
Would a natural user of a geographic number be inclined, or encouraged, to retain their number and achieve flexible routing through use of this feature, as a cheaper alternative against switching to a non-geographic number?
These may be mutually exclusive, but perhaps not.
Two further questions, as matters of interest.
The service is described as being offered to "
large organisations across public and private sector". What would be the minimum entry level?
Are BT's competitors in this market (e.g. C&W) offering similar services?