The UK telecom regulator, Ofcom has decided to compile its own mobile broadband coverage data maps and has contracted an outside company, Epitiro to analyse the performance of the networks.
Ofcom has previously relied on operator provided statistics when compiling its coverage maps, but after the findings in the recently published Communications Market Report which found that mobile broadband users were less than happy with the speed of their connections they have decided to look at the market themselves.
The comprehensive national research project will measure and benchmark the performance of the UK’s mobile network operators (MNOs): 3, O2, Orange, T-Mobile and Vodafone.
Epitiro will deploy its ipQ ‘Consumer Experience’ measurement technology to capture a range of key performance indicators (KPIs) including accessibility, reliability and throughput speeds. The data collected will be analysed to determine how broadband speeds vary by a number of factors including MNO, geography and time of day.
Research will take place from September 2010 to January 2011, with Ofcom expecting to publish a report in early 2011.
“Epitiro has developed consumer experience analysis technology specifically for the mobile industry.” said Gavin Johns, CEO, Epitiro, “We’re excited to be undertaking this essential research for Ofcom”.
Epitiro previously published the UK Mobile Broadband report, in 2009 which is still available from the company’s website for free.
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