Cellular optimization should be easy, but nothing could be further from the truth, not to mention it’s an ongoing, month-to-month initiative. All the providers – Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, etc. – have a myriad of plans, promotions, discounts, devices, upgrades, and economies of scale that affect wireless spend. This, of course, is compounded by the fact that user tendencies are changing monthly. Cutting-edge technology and automation will get you to the bottom, but if you don’t have that at your disposal, here are a few pointers to get you headed in the right direction:
- Group Purchasing Organization (GPO) – Do you qualify as a GPO with your carrier? Sometimes these plans offer deep discounts in verticals such as healthcare, government, construction and non-profit. If you’re eligible for more than one GPO, always analyze different GPOs to see which is best for you, and don’t be put off by 1X fees that still save you money in the long run.
- Pool Your Data – Evaluate if pooling your data reduces costs. Don’t forget you likely have other devices or appliances on your account(s) besides cell phones. Secondly, keep an eye out for lines that should be outside the pool and maybe on unlimited. Monitor monthly, adjust accordingly.
- Review Historical Usage – Establish a low-risk buffer by reviewing past usage data. Always keep in mind factors such as a high-travel periods that can affect your buffers. Also, setup alerts and review unbilled activity.
- Set Up Google Alerts – Carriers are always coming out with something new. Even if you are not a new customer, they want to retain your business! Google Alerts can help you keep an eye on new plans and features that may provide better allowances at a lower cost. Believe it or not, with so many variables in motion, direct reps rarely know ALL the plans that are available. And, rather than optimize your plan, they are focused on a new logo. Also, cross reference with peers and check the carrier web site for anything new.
These items will likely yield some quick-hitter savings, especially if you stay on it.
Do you have over 200 lines? Would you like to save more? Contact ATC for a FREE assessment of your corporate mobility environment.
