For UK businesses, choosing the right mobile plan can significantly impact productivity, efficiency, and cost control.
And at Fidelity Group, we understand that one size does not fit all. That’s why we’re here to demystify business mobile plans, focusing on the crucial aspects of data, roaming, and flexibility. Essentially telling you all your need to know!
Understanding your data needs
Data is the lifeblood of modern business operations. From accessing cloud-based applications and video conferencing to managing customer relationships on the go, a reliable and sufficient data allowance is paramount. When considering a business mobile plan, think about:
- Individual usage: Do your employees primarily use their phones for calls and emails, or are they heavy data users, streaming content or downloading large files?
- Shared data vs. individual allowances: For teams, a shared data pot can be highly cost effective, allowing unused data from one user to be utilised by another. Alternatively, individual allowances provide more control over each employee’s data consumption.
- Unlimited data: While appealing, unlimited data plans may not always be the most economical choice for every business. Assess if your team genuinely requires unlimited access or if a generous but capped allowance would suffice. You should note that unlimited data plans are subject to fair use policies too.
- 5G connectivity: The advent of 5G offers significantly faster speeds and lower latency, crucial for businesses relying on real time data and applications. Ensure your chosen plan and devices are 5G ready.
Navigating roaming charges
For businesses with employees who travel, roaming can quickly become a significant expense if not managed correctly. Post Brexit, roaming charges within the EU have seen some changes, making it even more important to understand your options:
- EU Roaming Inclusions: O2 mobile plans now offer ‘Roam Like Home’ benefits within the EU, meaning you can use your UK allowance for calls, texts, and data without extra charges, subject to fair usage policies. Be sure to confirm which countries are included in their ‘Europe Zone’ though. All other networks charge for EU roaming.
- Beyond the EU: For travel outside the EU, look for plans that offer international roaming bundles or daily passes. These can provide a set amount of data, calls, and texts for a fixed daily or weekly fee, preventing unexpected bill shocks. It is important to be aware that not all world destinations get the benefit of daily passes – check carefully.
- Data roaming caps: Most UK networks implement automatic data usage caps when abroad, typically around £40-£49, to help prevent excessive spending. While you can often opt out, it’s advisable to keep these in place for better cost control.
The power of flexibility
A truly effective business mobile plan should offer flexibility to adapt to your evolving needs. Your workforce might grow, your data consumption patterns could change, or you might need to adjust features based on new projects. Look for providers that offer:
- Scalable plans: Can you easily add or remove users? Can you adjust data allowances up or down without penalty?
- SIM only options: If your business prefers to provide devices separately or employees use their own, SIM only plans offer excellent value and agility.
- Contract lengths: While longer contracts often come with lower monthly costs, shorter, more flexible contracts can be beneficial if your business needs are unpredictable.
- Dedicated account management: A good provider will offer dedicated support and account management, helping you optimise your plan and troubleshoot any issues efficiently. (We have a 4.9/5.0 rating on Trustpilot).
We hope this information has proven to be useful to you and your business.
At Fidelity Group, we can work closely with you to understand your unique communication requirements, ensuring you get a mobile plan that keeps your team connected, productive, and in control of costs, wherever they are.
So why not contact us today to discuss your options and get a quote? Just call 0800 840 6800.
