FROM THE INDUSTRY
Inaccurate data can result in service disruptions and potentially trigger regulatory action by Ofcom.
Unique Property Reference Numbers (UPRNs) address this issue by providing a unique identifier for every addressable location in the UK. This datapoint removes ambiguity, ensuring that all parties are referring to the correct location with accuracy. This is why TOTSCo specifies the use of UPRNs as part of its best practice guide, to ensure that the correct address is matched with the right customer every time. Switching to a UPRN system, however, does require CPs to update their existing address databases. To ease this transition, CPs should audit their current records to ensure each address is matched with a UPRN. Ordnance Survey (OS), the National Mapping Service of Great Britain, enables this transition by supporting CPs in this transition process for instance, matching their existing customer address list with UPRNs.
records between the losing and gaining CPs. Precise addressing data reduces the risk of errors, minimises operational inefficiencies and protects against service disruptions during transitions, ensuring a seamless switch for both the customer and service provider.
OTS driving operational standards
With the OTS system now fully operational, CPs have a responsibility to ensure that customer address data is reliable, precise and always up to date. Regular address audits and consistent addressing data are necessary to maintain operational efficiency and high service standards. Data such as Unique Property Reference Numbers (UPRNs) and comprehensive OS data insights of the natural and built environment, already support the growth and continued success of the fixed and wireless markets. From the foundations of a network design to live customer support, OS data plays a pivotal role in ensuring seamless operations. By adopting these tools and practices, CPs can also deliver a smoother experience for customers, improve service reliability, and ensure a fair and competitive landscape for all.
Getting an address right
In addition to identifying where a customer is, precise addressing data allows the gaining provider to quickly verify the services available at a given address before initiating the switch. This verification step not only improves service reliability but also reassures customers that their new provider can fully meet their needs. Recognising that up-to-date address databases are critical to OTS, Ofcom has made it clear that CPs will be held accountable for maintaining data accuracy, ensuring they actively support a streamlined and error-free switching process. Keeping customer information accurate and up to date is essential for CPs, especially when reliable access to services is essential nationwide. However, despite their best efforts, inconsistencies in data can arise between service providers. If one provider records an address differently from another, it can create substantial challenges for ensuring uninterrupted service.
Accessing Data
To fully capitalise on the benefits of UPRNs, CPs should consider licensing a comprehensive addressing dataset. This equips providers with a consistent foundation of UPRNs to support their OTS journey, ensuring they can maintain accurate address records both now and in the future. For example, OS data suite, NGD, includes over 45 million addresses across Great Britain. With access to an expansive dataset, providers can also proactively reach out to new customers and support the existing with confidence.
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Volume 47 No.1 MARCH 2025
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