Forecasting Methodology of 3G Mobile Services with Consideration of Policy Issues

In most countries, mobile subscribers are already experiencing 3G-like services. At the moment of launching 3G services, lots of studies showed estimates of the number of subscribers for 3G services, using long-term demand curves, econometric methods or survey methodologies. Those studies mainly focused on the potential number of subscribers and the point of rapid growth rather than precise estimates for the services. Even though we've already experienced parts of 3G services, full length of 3G services are expecting in near future. Therefore, now we need to have more accurate estimates for 3G services. While we thought that 3G services were moved from 2G, in real place 3G services are being evolved from 2G services. In the process of evolving, regulators' policy affects service demand and diffusion significantly. For the more accurate estimates, we need to consider policy issues which influence service diffusion practically in real place. This study aims to present a model which shows better estimates for 3G services with consideration on policy issues, such as numbering issues, price regulation, and competition policy. The consideration can provide more accurate estimates for 3G services with service providers. The methodology could help academicians In forecasting of similar telecommunications services as well.