Peak Load Reduction on the Mobile Networks by Applying New Pricing Policies

The rapid growth of demand in mobile networks leads to peak-load traffic congestion. The congestion problem is a serious concern because it degrades the quality of service. Reducing the peak time load improves the overall system utilization. Hardly few information has been published about real measurements from any mobile network operator. The aim of this work is to present and discuss the efficiency of changing pricing policies in reducing the congestion and enhancing the productivity of mobile networks. Daily network real measurements (using the operator equipments such as TEMS investigation) were analysed at on- and off-peak times before and after applying two pricing schemes. These included either encouraging all customers to use reduced-cost off-peak calls or limiting on-peak usage with more offers at off-peak times for fixed price plan customers. Our results show that reducing off- peak call prices improve performance throughout the day. 35%, 50% reduction in the average blocking rates and a range of 3-21% and 10-35% decrease in the peak load were achieved with the two pricing plans applied. Mobile operators can use these pricing policies as a means to decrease the peak load and enhance the network revenue.