The Challenge
The GSM operator required an mVAS platform to provide SMS information retrieval services. Rapid deployment of services was critical as was the ability to install a self-contained platform with remote configuration, operation and maintenance capabilities across international boundaries. The required SMS response time had to be less than 30 seconds. Local operator staff needed to be able to create and deploy new services quickly and easily.

The Solution
Grapevine Interactive’s mVAS Platform was ideally suited to the challenge. Grapevine provided a turnkey solution, integrating the platform into the operator’s GSM infrastructure and commencing live operations within three weeks of project initiation. A robust and scalable architecture makes the Grapevine mVAS Platform ideally suited to the demands of a telecommunications operator environment. Although initial services were limited to SMS information retrieval services, the platform allows further service types and additional channels (email, voice, fax, WAP, WIG etc.) to be added as required.

Vodacom Tanzania has recently added ringtone and logo download services through premium rated MOSMS numbers.

Users of information retrieval services send an SMS containing Keywords and Keyword Parameters to a service number. Each Keyword and Keyword Parameter combination is associated with a unique piece of information, which is then returned to the user in an SMS.

The Information Retrieval Service has a simple interface allowing Keywords, Keyword Parameters and their associated information references (URL’s) to be defined.

Using this interface the operator has complete control over the ongoing configuration of the service. In addition, information content can be dynamically updated without interrupting service.

The Results
Acceptance of the new service was high, particularly in targeted market segments, with platform performance meeting the peak demands placed upon it. The GSM operator has launched new information services in response to new events and customer demand. At the same time, remote systems management (including customised service enhancements) has continued from Grapevine’s International Support and Development Centre based in South Africa.

Future Steps
The GSM operator will continue to provide customised information pull services, with plans to extend the range of services offered in the future. Possible future services include SMS subscription services (“Push” type services), video streaming services and MMS services. The Grapevine mVAS platform is capable of supporting a full range of these services across the full range of telco channels (SMS, MMS, WAP, WIG, voice, fax, email etc.)