Interview with Varun Singh, the CEO of callstats.io.

What is callstats.io?

callstats.io provides analytics for WebRTC multimedia communications.

We gather network and multimedia metrics from each participant in a call. As a next step, callstats.io summarises the quality of experience for each participant, taking into account several factors including device and network capabilities. Thus, we have a quality measurement value for each participant in a call. We take these values and aggregate them across all calls served by an WebRTC service. We visualise these results on a dashboard via which the WebRTC service can proactively search for calls with mediocre quality or calls reported by a user. callstats.io also helps to diagnose other performance related issues like call setup times, capacity issues, etc.

Who is it for?

callstats.io is built for WebRTC-enabled services. Web monitoring services like Google Analytics and Mixpanel are similar to callstats.io, however we measure the quality of multimedia calls. In addition to quality metrics, we measure service statistics, for

example: total number of calls, reasons for failed calls, distribution of setup times, etc.

What benefits do callstats.io customers get?

As consumers of communication services, we all have at one point or another experienced poor media quality. When this happens on a service using callstats.io, the service provider can easily search for the particular conference’s metrics. The callstats.io’s dashboard shows a timeline for connectivity, user events (audio muting, video pausing, etc) and the variation of both media quality and the network metrics over time. For example the screenshot below shows the quality variation for four users over time, including that two participants have similar quality while the third and fourth have lower quality of experience.

Similarly, we track the application usage statistics, for example, we measure the total calls, failed calls, duration of calls, etc. This helps the WebRTC service focus on areas that need improvement.

How is callstats.io different from competitors/alternatives?

WebRTC services can use Google Analytics, Mixpanel or similar tools to track the application usage. If they collect media metrics in a CSV file via the getStats() API, they can import it into Guavus or Splunk to calculate statistical measures like median, average, etc. however, none of these tools are optimised to perform statistical analysis on media or network measurements. callstats.io is built from the beginning to be a real-time analysis system that enables WebRTC services to deploy fixes before a call drops and impacts the user experience.

Varun, you are also a co-author of the WebRTC Statistics API. Could you tell us how WebRTC v1.0 is evolving?

In the past few months, the WebRTC application is moving towards stability and tackling deployment issues. However, the most exciting feature that we are awaiting release in deployments are RtpSender and RtpReceiver. These objects allow for more fine-grained control (e.g., setting maximum bitrate) of the media stream from the application.

Telecom APIs for Monetization of Communications-enabled Applications

The global application development community is becoming increasingly aware of Telecom Application Programming Interface (API) as a means of accessing data for a variety of communications-enabled applications.   Telecom Network APIs capitalize on existing network infrastructure and platforms to facilitate many new business opportunities.

Telecom APIs can be monetized in a few key areas including:

1. Direct API Revenue: Per-call Revenue (only)
2. Data Monetization: Revenue primarily from VAS Apps that rely upon Telecom APIs
3. Cost Savings: Savings to carriers that is directly attributable to use of Telecom APIs
4. Higher Usage: Increased data usage that is directly attributable to Telecom APIs and VAS Apps based on Telecom APIs
5. Churn Reduction: Reduction in customer losses directly attributable to Telecom APIs

Direct API Revenue

Standalone Revenue from API services offered in a Data as a Service (DaaS) business model and sold on a B2B basis, which includes Business (B2B2B) and B2B to Consumer (B2B2C) services.  In the B2B2B business model, companies provide services to business so that they can provide services to other businesses.   Whereas today many carriers are offering B2B Telecom API services primarily for B2B2C, in the future we see an increasing number of B2B2B scenarios.

Data Monetization

To break through the chicken-and-egg scenario (of which came first, the app or the data for the app) there is a need to develop some value-added service (VAS) applications as proof points for the use of data from various sources including telecom, enterprise, and social media.  However, it is not enough to simply do this as it will be much more impactful if the data-based services are actively promoted as being based on a DaaS business model, which shall further encourage development of additional apps and services.

Cost Savings

It is difficult to attribute a “cost savings” with existing programs with the exception of improvements in service realization based on standard processes and procedures for delivery of VAS Apps.  It is easier to attribute cost savings for “to-be” programs improved data accessibility to enterprise and improved development environments wherein Telecom APIs make data and data related processes more efficient from a carrier administrative perspective.

Higher Usage

Telecom API services offered in both DaaS business model B2B as well as for VAS Apps will cause additional data usage.   While difficult to attribute the exact raise in terms of usage directly resultant from API data, Mind Commerce believes that it will be a key factor especially in data reliant completely on a cellular connection (i.e. 4G/B4G rather than public WiFi) for certain services such as LTE Direct.

Churn Reduction

Churn reduction directly attributable to Telecom APIs is minimal for consumer.  This is almost entirely an enterprise play for carriers.  Churn reduction for enterprise will be due to a combination of three factors: (1) Effective development environment for enterprise IT to use telecom data in DaaS model, (2) Environment that include cooperation from various enterprises including cross-enterprise usage of their data, and (3) Carrier VAS App offerings specifically targeted towards solving enterprise problems.

Learn More

The research report Telecom Network API Marketplace: Strategy, Ecosystem, Players and Forecasts 2015 – 2020 provides an in-depth assessment of the global Telecom Network API market, including business models, business case, best practices, value chain analysis, operator and vendor strategies, vision for the future of telecom data, and a quantitative assessment of the industry from 2015 to 2020.

http://mindcommerce.com/

The Juncker Commission plan for the telecom and digital sector discussed at DRF 2015

The 9th Annual Digital Regulation Forum is the chosen meeting point for over 150 leading stakeholders within the digital community including global regulators, investors and operators to discuss and shape the changing regulatory landscape in light of the new Juncker Commission plans.

In partnership with Broadband4Europe, this year’s conference programme has been fully researched with the help of leading representatives from regulators, OTTs and operators to deliver all the business critical information you need to push your business forward. Panel sessions and interactive round tables feature heavily on the agenda to ensure you can take part in key discussions, including:

The Juncker Commission plan for the telecom and digital sector

With President Juncker putting the digital economy at the top of the new Commission’s political agenda, a strong commitment is required for private and public players to reach the goal of massive fixed and mobile investments. Led by Daniel Thomas, Correspondent from the Financial Times; this panel discussion will focus on:

• How to break the national silos in telecommunications regulations, in copyright and data protection?
• Which policies are needed to maximize the use of spectrum?
• How will the approach of competition law change for the telecom sector?
• Calendar and main objectives of the announced 2015 Framework
• Review and what could change for national regulators

Expert panellists include:

Luigi Gambardella, Founder, Broadband4Europe
Luis Enriquez , Senior Partner, McKinsey & Company
Pierre Louette, Deputy Chief Executive, Orange
Matthew Kirk, Group External Affair Director, Vodafone
Roberto Viola, Deputy Director General, DG Connect, European Commission

Download the brochure here: http://digitalregulationforum.com/download-brochure-2015/

Registration is now open – Earlybird ends 27th February! – http://digitalregulationforum.com/register/

Oracle Communications Convergent Charging and Policy: An Executive Overview

The rise in smartphone and tablet usage, coupled with increasing data speeds, both mobile and fixed, is contributing to a geometric increase in the consumption of data services, enabling the so-called customer “Digital Lifestyle”. However, a corresponding decrease in traditional voice and text services has left communications service providers in a real bind. Even with the increase in data usage consumption, service provider revenues from data service usage has not kept pace. Faced with enormous costs resulting from IP network build outs, and the potential “threat” of over-the-top (OTT) providers getting a free ride on those networks, service providers must deploy customer-centric strategies to increase revenues and boost the bottom
line.

Customer-centric strategies to boost revenues involve attainment of customers, retention of customers, and most importantly influencing customer spend – or gaining a larger share of the customer wallet. Convergent charging and policy systems that bridge network and IT functions are key for a communications service provider (CSP) to accomplish those customer-centric
strategies. Specifically CSPs must accomplish excellence in three main areas: product differentiation, customer engagement and operational efficiency, which are areas of focus that are addressed by the Oracle Convergent Charging and Policy solution.

The Oracle Communications Convergent Charging and Policy solution is the only solution that enables CSPs to combine business and network policies to rapidly launch innovative offers and empower customers to personalize and control their usage experience, accelerating service monetization at a predictable cost of ownership.

<< Click here to download the full whitepaper >>

Welcome to DeviceHub by Cellpak

 

DeviceHub is an end-to-end solution that makes it possible for any brand to retail mobile devices, SIM cards and related products such as mobile accessories.  Devicehub facilitates both online and bricks and mortar sales.

For our partners, DeviceHub offers the opportunity to create a value-added service for their customers while benefiting from an additional revenue stream.  We support a wide variety of businesses and organisations who wish to easily operate in the mobile technology space, both in the UK and Europe.

Our highly specialised multi-faceted operation combines a complete inventory and logistics solution with a white-label multi-channel retail and ERP software platform.

The fully managed DeviceHub service delivers expert device sourcing, multi-component kitting, tailored packaging, virtual warehousing, fulfilment, distribution and logistics.  A highly robust and efficient operation built on the knowledge and experience gained from over a decade supporting businesses in the mobile arena.

This is combined with a fully integrated technical platform that allows us to quickly build and launch partner-branded websites whilst managing orders, commissions and inventory in the background, and providing comprehensive management reporting.

About us

We are an ISO9001 and ISO14001 accredited business that strives to build strong multi-channel partnerships with MNOs, MVNOs, tech businesses and independent dealers through our continually reviewed, renewed and extended portfolio of tailored services.

We operate from a purpose built UK Distribution Centre, situated on the London/Essex border within 5 minutes of the M25, junction 26; an enviable location with direct access to all major transport links to London and the rest of the UK, as well as Europe.

We package, store and ship many millions of pounds-worth of products every year on behalf of our Manufacturer, Network and Retail partners, via our Road, Air and Sea distribution, logistics and forwarding services.

<< Click here to read more >>

Convergys Whitepaper:

WebRTC Redefines Value Added Services

Using WebRTC can transform a traditional Web page in to a multimedia service that embraces a “Click to Call” culture or when
incorporated into the Convergys Multimedia Services Platform (C-MEX) can stimulate higher call completion rates.

Why  WebRTC?

WebRTC is an exciting new technology that brings real-time communications in the form of voice and video to standard Web browsers, adding a new dimension on how a Web page can interact with the viewer.

What is  WebRTC?

WebRTC is a technology that enables a standard Web browser to make multimedia (voice and video) calls direct to other browsers or to other communication systems, such as a conference server. It provides a means for a Web site (after the user grants appropriate permission) to integrate multimedia calls as easily as including forms or other media content onto a page.

<< Click here to download full whitepaper here >>

Convergys are sponsors of this years Telecom CEM World Congress, for more information please visit www.cemcongress.com or email mlloyd@iir-telecoms.com

A Gintel Case Study: Dipper

Dipper: How an entrant MVNO took the Business Market by Storm

It’s a familiar story. At first sight, the situation in Norway seemed unpromising for a new entrant to establish a business in the telecommunications market. With a number of established players offering services to both consumer and business subscribers, there appeared to be little room for another. In particular, the consumer market is faced with pressures that are similar to those in other European countries – declining revenue and decreasing margins apparently limiting the potential to build a profitable business.

That’s the challenge that confronted the team behind Dipper, a new MVNO that entered the Norwegian market in 2013. The Dipper team successfully solved these issues and launched a compelling service offer into the market. One year on, the company has gone from strength to strength and is rapidly building market share in an extremely competitive market….

…Click here to read more and access the full Case Study

MVNO Networking Congress will take place 3-5 November 2014 at the Thistle Marble Arch in London. A ‘veritable who’s who of the European ecosphere‘, the 2014 edition will focus on everything MVNO related, such as start-up strategies, customer experience solutions, cloud services, devices, digital advancements, social media, M2M opportunities, Retail & Enterprise channels, the IoT, OTT relationships, LTE/4G launches, and roaming.

For more information and to register your place at the event, please visit www.mvnoevent.com

 

Safe Cities 2014: Speaker Interview with Daniel Sarasa, Zaragoza City Council

 

Ahead of Safe Cities 2014, we’ve conducted an exclusive speaker interview with Daniel Sarasa, Urban Innovation Project Manager, Zaragoza City Council about his upcoming contribution at the Safe Cities event, and general insights on the challenges and opportunities around building safe cities…

IIR Telecoms: What do you see as the current drivers for innovation in safe cities?

Daniel: Families, medium class people are and will be returning to cities from the suburbs. Its needs (children autonomy, playable cities, safe mobility, internet protection) will be the main social driver.

Although global threats (cybersecirity, terrorism) will remain also as a driver for innovation.

IIR Telecoms: What is the safe city, who needs to make it happen and what is the roadmap to achieving it?

Daniel: A safe city is a place where its inhabitants (children included) feel confident in all situations at the public and private space, and that probably nowadays includes the network. It is difficult to establish a roadmap, but it is probably closely related to more vibrant downtowns, livable neighbourhoods

IIR Telecoms: How do safe city strategies integrate with a wider smart city agenda?

Daniel: Safe cities also have to do with more education to understand and be aware of the new challenges and dangers in the digital era, and a general economic well being. But also with participation, transparency and privacy issues related to technology have also to be adressed, otherwise it will not be easy to deploy advanced security systems, at least by European public administrations.

IIR Telecoms: What are the challenges of achieving public private integration for safe city strategy?

Daniel: First, new business models in which all parts can find win-win situations. These business models start to appear in other areas such as mobility, waste management, energy, but public safety needs still some degree of imagination by the public and private sector to find good case studies of this succesful integration.

IIR Telecoms: How should security strategy and technology be integrated across the different services to ensure safety and resilience?

Daniel: In our opinion, this integration have to leave technology behind the scene. The main character in this play is the citizen and how their needs and concerns are adressed. Final security solutions may have a strong technology component, but technology should be an output of this citizentric strategic thinking, and not the other way around.

IIR Telecoms: Which are the new technologies that will give optimum ROI in terms of ensuring city security?

Daniel: It is difficult to know, but probably they will be soft, non invasive technologies. Systems that do not altere or invade public space , such as artificial intelligence algorithms, social networks analisys, etc, tend to be technologies that can be deployed at optimum costs (no civil works, little rejection by the citizens) and can, in turn, optimize ROI

IIR Telecoms: What do you hope to get out of  attending the Safe Cities conference?

Daniel: Understand new business models, discuss ethics, learn new technologies and trends.

Join Daniel and the rest of our acclaimed speaker line-up at Safe Cities taking place from 10-11 December 2014 at the Hotel Melia Avenida America, Madrid. Register here or download the brochure.

Speaker Interview with Network Norway

 

Ahead of MVNO Networking Congress 2014, we’ve conducted an exclusive speaker interview with Rolf Paulsen, Director B2B, Network Norway about his upcoming contribution at the MVNO event, and insights on the challenges the MVNO industry is facing…

Rolf Paulsen
Director B2B
Network Norway

What are you looking forward to at the MVNO conference this year?

Looking forward to the other case studies being presented, to draw on key insights and experiences from MVNOs in other markets. Specifically on market positioning, product offerings and use of service platforms. Also interested to here about how markets differ from the market which I am working in. I am also looking forward to meeting vendors at the event.

What do you feel are the key challenges that the MVNO industry is facing in 2014 and what do you hope the conference will answer?

Some of the Key issues I see is the ability to build and operate a profitable operation within the MVNO environment, a lot of this comes down to local and EU regulation, as regulators set a lot of the conditions that the MVNO operate under.
Of course this has to be coupled with an attractive market offering an the ability to differentiate the service offering in the market place.

Could you lets us have a sneaky peak as to what you will be sharing with the audience this year?

This year I am planning to present the key challenges that we have experienced in the Norwegian Market from moving from and SP to an MVNO to an MO. I will focus specifically on the growth case that we have had in the B2B market, and how we have been able to differentiate our service offering and build a profitable operation. I will specifically show the products that we have had successful launches with in the past years.

Join Rolf and the rest of our acclaimed speaker line-up at MVNO Networking Congress, to discuss all this and more. Click here to register.

1 week to go! Mobile Network Optimisaton | 16-17 September 2014, London

Register your place at www.mnoevent.com/register