The BBC announced this year (2008) that it would be swapping all of its 0870 telephone numbers for the new corresponding 03 number: 0370.

Some of its divisions have changed and you can hear the latest 03 numbers being used on Radio 1 and Radio 2 and over its local television network, for example.

Its huge fundraising event, Children in Need also used an 03 number as its main donation line.

Here are 10 reasons why the BBC has opted for 03 numbers:

1. Different to 0870 numbers, 03 numbers charge the same to ring as standard 01/02 phone numbers even from a mobile phone (40% of all calls are now made from mobiles).
2. People believe in 03 numbers due to their transparent call charges. This is specifically important for the BBC which relies on funding from license-fee payers. 03 numbers are caller friendly and as such not prone to negative publicity.
3. 03 equivalent numbers are to be had that let organisations change their 08 numbers for 03. On the other hand, some highly memorable 03 numbers (0333 or 0300 etc.) can be bought as the number range is still fairly new.
4. Most non-geographic numbers, 03 numbers provide the BBC a country wide presence. This meant it can publish one specific memorable number throughout the United Kingdom – which is not area focused. This is specifically essential for its countrywide TV and radio services.
5. The BBC can deal with enquirers more efficiently by using call management systems to their 03 Numbers
6. Its numerous departments can manage where they want to receive their calls (particularly out of hours and in an urgent situation) easily via the web/phone.
7. They can see the place the caller is located, times of high caller usage and the time taken to answer all calls with online Call Statistics packages.

8. You are able to save calls to 03 numbers without adding expensive physical equipment.
9. Callers can be place in an enquiry line, meaning that all essential calls will be dealt with.
10. They can frequently be extremely reasonable to run if you seek out the provider with the best package in the market.

It’s clear that 03 numbers are quickly becoming a sought after number for many United Kingdom organisations.
Im sure, the 10 points above provide a starting point to the reasons why the 03 number is so popular.

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