Tag Archives: billing

Google Launches In-App Billing on Android Market

“We’re pleased to announce the launch of Android Market In-app Billing to developers and users. As an Android developer, you will now be able to publish apps that use In-app Billing and your users can make purchases from within your apps,” stated the blog post. This new launch will greatly enhance the sale of applications in the Android market, as prior to this, Android-based app creators could only sell their apps in the app market, and the monetary transaction was also a complex process. Moreover, owing to this constraint, the developers were left with no choice, but to offer their software free of cost to the users.

The negatives

Even though this in-app payment offer is very beneficial, and is one of major revenue source for Apple which also offers a similar service to its iPhone customers, it has some flaws. Malware and theft are major worries for Android app developers, while opting for selling their applications through this method. “It’s also worth noting the hidden (or at least partially obscured) costs of some apps that use this model. Previously, Android apps could be bought with a simple one-off payment – you knew exactly what you were paying, even if it was a relatively expensive app,” said a technology expert.

Google helping Android market develop

Google Inc. has been working at developing the Android market, and in its bid, it has also encouraged creation of new apps by developers. “Despite the developments, Google has a lot more work to do with Android Market, improving the buying experience for visitors, adding more methods for payment worldwide, and more,” added a market analyst.

The Significance of OSS in Telecom Billing Solutions

Communication is a never ending process that remains mandatory in both personal and professional level. Today, the telecom industry offers numerous services that act as a proper communication tool to undertake market analysis and further assisting the companies to promote their sales lead. But, the telecom providers often face some discrepancies while rendering some important aspects. Especially, the subject matter of billing policy comes in first. Today, there is a new concept known as OSS or Operations Support System, that is specially developed to have a proper track upon the inventory, management, planning and repair functions for telecommunication service providers.

Every telecom operator undertakes a task that is fully responsible for billing services and charging related matter. With the help of the Telecom Billing Solutions, it is convenient to understand the requirement of the client and what type of services should be requested. This will allow the client, retain to the service provider for a longer time. The implementation of OSS enhances billing, traffic analysis, cost allocation, inventory management service, order management and network optimization.

The main functionality of the telecommunication OSS is to track the database that the customer is using. After accessing the data, it is forwarded to the billing department for next level of processing. Providing a detailed billing structure is very vital to make the clients satisfied. This will definitely make them feel that their interests are always safeguarded by the service provider.

The OSS starts with a client application request in favor of a fresh account, with a specific telecom service provider. Once the customer records are verified, a special ID is sent to the fresh client. After the approval, the account is activated and then the client is entitled to access the services as per the scheme.

After the service commencement, the call records are processed under the specific ID as per the tariff plan. If the client is using some value added services then all the additional costs would be credited to the primary plan. Apart from the primary billing usage, OSS also monitor the errors and faults that are faced by the customers. All the customer support calls are closely scrutinized and are used for future reference. The modified records into the customer’s ID such as errors, additional discounts or manual data reports are also updated through this system and assist respective departments to improve or cut down the problems in the future. After a specific period, a database is formulated as per the billing standards (Automated Message Accounting System, Network Data Management, etc). In addition, OSS incorporates cost based on the collections, printing, billing cycles and call center.

As the competition grows, the service provider needs to concentrate upon advanced billing system through a better mode. The Customer relationship management represents an effective telecom billing solutions through OSS. It is a must in telecommunication industry.