Consumer Tips on Navigating Technology

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• Consumer Tips on Navigating Technology
• University of Wyoming
• Joel Kelsey, Policy Analyst
• September 25th, 2008

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Overview

• Television and Internet Service
• Competition slowly heating up
• Cable, Satellite or Teleco Sorting through the
  bundle
• Cell Phone Service Hear US Now!
• Cell phone plans untangled 5 ways to cut you
  bill
• Cell phone problems and solutions

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Television and Internet

• Competition is Growing
• Phone companies (telecos) are rolling out
  fiber-optic networks to handle more HD TV, voice,
  and internet
• Service areas are still limited
• Not doing much to reduce the cost of TV service
• Cable, Satellite or Teleco?

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CABLE

• PROS
• Few or no upfront costs or contracts
• Local broadcasts
• Best for video on demand

• CONS
• Limited bandwidth prevents internet usage and
  addition of new HD channels
• Horrible customer service

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SATELLITE

• PROS
• More satisfying to customers than cable
• Most HD content available

• CONS
• Bad weather can knock out reception
• Must acquire equipment

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TELECO

• PROS
• Highest bandwidth
• Highest scores on consumer satisfaction

• CONS
• Limited availability
• Contracts and extensive installation

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TIPS TO CHOOSE

• Determine whats avaliable
• Consider equipment and contracts
• Find a lineup that suits you
• Decide on a package, check your bill, haggle when
  promotion is over!

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Wireless Plans Untangled

• Alltell Top in customer service, connectivity
  and best consumer friendly features
• ATT Home of the iPhone, but trails other
  carriers in almost all respects
• Sprint Bottom ranked due to spotty service and
  low customer service
• T-Mobile Solid performer, often offers more for
  your
• Verizon Among the better carriers this year, a
  standout in connectivity

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Five Ways to Cut Your Bill

• Look into special caller deals.
• Avoid overage charges.
• Control usage of others on your plan.
• Shop around for the extras.
• Consider a prepaid phone.

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PROBLEM - SOLUTION

• PROBLEM Poor Coverage
• SOLUTION
• Listen to our readers experiences.
• Check the signal strength down to street level in
  areas where youll use the phone most frequently.
  Interactive online coverage maps, offered by most
  carriers except Alltel, provide some guidance as
  to what you can expect.

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PROBLEM - SOLUTION

• PROBLEM Early Termination Fees
• SOLUTION
• Attack this problem based on your specific
  circumstances.
• Try to negotiate a waiver.
• You might also consider transferring your
  contract www.celltradeusa.com or
  www.cellswapper.com. The person who takes over
  your phone and service becomes responsible for
  future payments, and you walk away.