Telecommunications Industry

Resources for researching the telecom industry

What's in This Guide

The Industry - Industry surveys supply background information on how the industry operates, identify industry trends, and often list the top companies in the sector. Market research offers data on market share, distribution channels, brands and consumer demographics.

The Numbers - Statistics and reports on industry performance are collected by many trade associations, government agencies and private research firms.

The Competition - Identify the key players in the industry. Find company profiles, financial data and analysis.

The Environment - Read about issues related to the economic, regulatory, social, technological and global conditions of the industry.

News - Business magazines, newspapers and trade journals are key sources for identifying industry trends and keeping up-to-date on the latest industry happenings.

Getting Started with Telecom Industry Research

The CTIA offers Industry Data on wireless telecommunications.

For global news and policy reports go to the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA). For a U.S. perspective, go to the Federal Communications Commission, the FCC.

Industry Metrics

Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) - measures operating performance and growth

ARPU is the average monthly revenue for each subscriber. It shows whether revenue growth is due to increased customers or phone usage. CTIA tracks industry ARPU data.

CPGA and CCPU - are measures of operating costs

Cost per Gross Subscriber Addition (CPGA) measures how much it costs to addd new subscribers and is based on selling and marketing costs, andsubsidies for accessories.

Cash cost per User (CCPU) measures the average monthly cost of serving customers.

Churn  is the percentage of subscribers who terminate their contracts monthly.