More than two years after the proposal for LNP (Local Number Portability) was made, DoT has recommended it for implementation in a phased manner. Initially, it will be implemented in New Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai and Mumbai by the end of 2008. So its still some more wait to see it in practice.

What does these all mean? :

* Now, you will be the owner of your mobile number and keep it with you as long as you wish.

* If you are not satisfied with your service provider, you can switch to the new company without the need to change the mobile number.

* You can invest in the branding of your number without fearing its loss.

* All your investment in Business advertisements, promotions, personal contacts, etc. will be more safer than earlier as you won’t need to change your number despite of your dispute with your service provider because you can change it without changing your number.

* Cell phone companies will be more responsible and receptive to its subscriber’s woes henceforth.

* Users will loss one excuse (of blaming the service provider ) for changing her mobile number.

* Your name gets an numeric equivalent i.e. every individual can be identified by a number rather than her name

* Cheap promotional schemes merely to penetrate and increase the subscriber base might go off air.

* Infact now the promotional schemes will cover all existing subscribers and not only the new subscribers. Loyalty will be better rewarded.

* Mobile numbers now will get the better reliability as the probability of the traceability of the users will increase.

* If you were planning to change your service provider immediately, you can plan to hold for another year if you wish to retain the same number.

* Overall, its a good step and gives you the freedom to retain your number …and with it your earlier efforts to establish contacts will bear fruits for a longer tenure.

* This should be replicated for the landlines as well.

* Infact clear road map should be written for Full Number Portability, where a user can not only switch among service providers but also among cell-phones and fixed lines as well as different cities and yet carrying the same number.

* The true game of numbers begins now. Lets see which service provider become more popular than the rest after it is implemented and how the cost of switching is priced.

Go grab your number now …as premium numbers will command more premium now onwards! Now mobile number has gained mobility .

Technorati Tags: Mobile Number Portability, LNP, MNP, Cellphone number, one number