MCI Proposes Solution to Los Angeles' Growing Telephone Number Shortage

Strategic Insights -

As the use of paging and wireless telephone services continues to grow in Los Angeles, concerns are arising about the city's ability to meet the demand for new telephone numbers. MCI, a leading telecommunications company, has outlined a solution to this problem in a recent testimony before the California Public Utility Commission (CPUC). The company proposes adopting a "geographic split" approach to telephone numbering, where area codes are assigned based on where customers live and work, creating new area codes as demand for new numbers rises.

Key Takeaways:

  • MCI proposes a "geographic split" approach to telephone numbering, where area codes are assigned based on where customers live and work.
  • This approach has been successfully implemented in other large metropolitan areas, such as Chicago, and has been endorsed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
  • The proposed solution aims to meet the increased demand for new telephone numbers without inconveniencing customers.
  • MCI criticizes Pacific Bell's proposed "Numbering Plan Area (NPA) Overlay" plan, which would require customers to use multiple area codes for different services.
  • Pacific Bell's plan would also assign different area codes to new customers in the same area, potentially causing widespread confusion among customers.
  • MCI requests that the CPUC investigate Pacific Bell's apparent mismanagement of telephone numbering in California.
  • MCI's Richard Severy states that Pacific Bell's plan treats competitors unequally and fails to provide number portability, a critical feature that enables customers to retain their existing telephone number when switching to a competing local service provider.

Statistics:

  • The FCC has endorsed the "geographic split" approach as a solution that best serves the needs of business and residential customers.
  • Pacific Bell's proposed "NPA Overlay" plan would assign multiple area codes to customers, potentially causing endless confusion among users.
  • New customers to the same area might be assigned different area codes, leading to customer complaints and dissatisfaction.
  • MCI's annual revenues are $13.3 billion, making it the world's third-largest carrier of international calling.
  • The company provides a wide range of services, including consumer and business long distance and local services, data communications, online information, electronic mail, and network management services.

Sources:

  • March 27, 1995, Business Wire
  • Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
  • California Public Utility Commission (CPUC)
  • Richard Severy, MCI's director of legislative and regulatory affairs for the western division
  • MCI California Press Office, 415/512-6800