Understanding the Call Charging Algorithm Process

The telecommunications industry relies on sophisticated algorithms to calculate call charges accurately and fairly. This process involves multiple steps and variables that work together to determine the final cost of your phone calls. Let's dive into how this intricate system operates to ensure transparent and accurate billing.

Initiating the Calculation Process

Every call charge calculation begins with a systematic approach to ensure accuracy and consistency. The system initializes by preparing to process various parameters that will influence the final cost. This initialization is crucial as it sets up the framework for processing different types of calls and their associated charges.

Essential Call Information Collection

The first active step involves gathering crucial call details that will determine the pricing structure. The system collects two primary pieces of information: the exact time when the call was made and the type of call, which can be categorized as Lyca, Internal, or International. This information forms the foundation for accurate charge calculation and proper rate application.

Time-Based Classification

Once the call details are collected, the system categorizes the call time into specific time blocks. These blocks include Morning, Afternoon, Evening, Night, and Early Morning periods. Each time block corresponds to different rate structures, reflecting the varying demand and network capacity throughout the day. This time-based segregation helps in implementing dynamic pricing strategies that benefit both the service provider and the customers.

Call Type Analysis

The system then proceeds to analyze the call type, which is a critical factor in determining the applicable rate. Each call is classified into one of three categories: Lyca Network, Internal, or International. This classification ensures that the appropriate pricing scheme is applied based on the network infrastructure and costs involved in connecting the call.

Lyca Network Pricing Structure

For calls within the Lyca network, a sophisticated time-based pricing model is implemented. The rates vary significantly throughout the day, with the most economical rates during afternoon and evening hours at 0.8 Ugshs/min. Morning calls are charged at 6 Ugshs/min, while night calls cost 4 Ugshs/min. Early morning calls are priced at a moderate 1 Ugsh/min, offering users flexibility in choosing the most cost-effective time to make their calls.

Internal Call Rates

Internal calls follow a simpler, dual-rate structure based on daytime and nighttime periods. During the standard business hours of 8am to 8pm, calls are charged at 7 Ugshs/min. Outside these hours, the rate increases to 25 Ugshs/min, reflecting the different operational costs and usage patterns between day and night.

International Call Pricing

International calls command premium rates due to the involvement of multiple network operators and international infrastructure. During peak hours (8am to 8pm), calls are billed at 25 Ugshs/min. The rate increases to 35 Ugshs/min during off-peak hours, accounting for the complex routing and maintenance of international connections.

Cost Calculation and Display

After processing all the variables, the system calculates the final cost by multiplying the applicable rate with the call duration. This calculated amount is then prepared for display, ensuring transparency in billing. The system formats the cost information in a clear, understandable manner for both billing systems and customer communications.

Completion of Calculation Process

The algorithm concludes by finalizing the cost calculation and ensuring all relevant information is properly recorded. This final step includes various checks to verify the accuracy of the calculation and prepare the data for integration with billing systems. The process ensures that customers receive accurate, transparent charges for their telecommunications usage.

How Call Charges Are Calculated: A Step-by-Step Algorithm Guide