january 2013

USSD Center
MI and NI USSD and rich application interfaces

Enabling VAS based on USSD interaction and cost savings

The USSD Center has full SS7 interfaces and rich IP interfaces that allow interaction with applications that manage value added services. Operators in the ICT industry can use the USSD Center for management of USSD transactions between mobile and the internet based part of the industry. This enables the operators of the USSD Center to offer value added services based on USSD interaction with mobile end users and to save costs in the operations.

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USSD transactions between the players in the ICT industry

As illustrated below the USSD Center enables execution of USSD transactions between the mobile and the internet based part of the ICT industry. USSD enables real time dialogue between mobile end users and VAS applications via messages flashed on the display of the mobile phone. The user experience can be compared the dialogue with an application on a smartphone. USSD functionality is embedded in all GSM networks and all mobile phones. This makes it possible to offer USSD based services in parts of the world where the smartphone penetration is low.
Mobile Netfors Internet Service/ contnet provider

MNO

MVNO

Netfors software USSD Center

VoIP operator

MVNE VAS platforms SS7 signaling provider Asterisk Billing system Service apps.

ASP/ VASP

Customer environment

Aggregator

Players in the mobile based part of the ICT industry (MNO, MVNO, MVNE and SS7 signaling providers) can use the USSD Center as a network element and as a gateway to the internet based part of the industry. E.g. USSD can be used as a medium for prepaid top up and for call back services. USSD can also be used for chat services between the mobile end users. The gateway functionality enables new revenue streams by giving the internet based part of the industry access to the mobile users. USSD interactions can also be used for banking services and money transfer. Here Value Added Services Providers (VASP) and platform providers can manage the banking applications and use the USSD Center to enable the connectivity to the mobile network. USSD can also be used for push services where an application pushes a message to the mobile end user and pull services where the mobile end user initiates a session by typing in a short code. This enables service providers to offer USSD based news, weather, sports, quiz, and survey services. The service providers may get assistance from Value Added Services Providers and Application Service Providers for provision of the applications and the connectivity to the mobile networks.

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MI and NI USSD, and rich APIs for applications

As illustrated the USSD Center enables transmission of Mobile Initiated (MI) and Network Initiated (NI) transactions between the SS7 network elements and IP based applications. The SS7 interfaces enable integration with the mobile network via all protocols. The rich IP interfaces allow integration with applications that control the business logic of the USSD based services. The configuration of the interfaces and the day-to-day operations are managed via a web based administration interface.

SS7

USSD Center Administration

IP Banking/ MI USSD money trns. App. transaction NI USSD transaction Chat/ prepaid App.

STP

MI USSD transaction NI USSD transaction

MSC

Features VLR TDM/E1 SIGTRAN HLR Spans and Linksets Associations Routing of USSD transactions Man. of USSD sessions API JSON SOAP XML SMPP HTTP

Push/pull services App.

Service accounts

Dialogue service app.

Features
Scalable (from 20 to 800 USSD TPS). This enables starting up with low costs and the required capacity and to upgrade as need occurs. Full SS7 interfaces (E1, SIGTRAN). This enables real time transmission of USSD transactions and flexibility in the integration with the mobile network. Rich IP interfaces (XML/SOAPJSON interface, standard APIs). This enables transmission of business logic to third party applications. Mobile Initiated (MI) and Network Initiated (NI) USSD. This enables initiation of USSD sessions originated from a mobile phone and from an application. Web based administration interface (configuration, status, add ons).This enables configuration of USSD services as well as mobitoring and optimization of operations. Add ons for extra functionality (Development Kit, Mobile Simulation Kit, CDRs for billing). This enables development of USSD applications without SS7 connectivity and integration with billing systems.

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Customized products and balanced pricing

Products, pricing and terms of payment are adapted to our customers' needs. This way we mirror the functionality needs, revenue potential and cash flow of our customers and allow them to grow together with us.

Pricing and payment

The price depends on capacity and number of add ons. So our customers can start up with a basic configuration with low capacity and upgrade as business takes off. To mirror the business conditions and cash flow of our customers we offer our software licenses via one off payment and subscription. We also enter into joint ventures with our customers via a risk and revenue share model.

Deployment and service

To ensure a smooth start remote installation and configuration is included in the license fees. On site installation and training is also available on request. To ensure a problem free operation a service agreement is a part of all purchase agreements.

Netfors and development

Netfors has deep and broad competencies in the SS7 mobile networks. We have our own protocol stacks and we have efficient product development based on the high level language Python. Also we are cost conscious and care about our products. This allows us to develop affordable products at a high quality. It also allows us to enter into a qualified dialogue about product adoptions and specific needs and to develop customised products.

Contact and dialogue

We are always ready for dialogue about how we can help you increase your efficiency and revenue potential.

Netfors Esromgade 15, 1109 DK-2200 Copenhagen N Denmark Email: Tel: Fax: Web: sales@netfors.com +45 46931411 +45 46931466 http://www.netfors.com/

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