News that the Bureau Telecommunication and Post (BTP) will measure the quality of telecoms services (see Friday paper) is most welcome. Not that the companies in question are doing such a terrible job, but it’s always good to get an independent look.
St. Maarten’s situation surely can’t be called the worst in the world, because there is at least more than one party involved, contrary to some places where it – still – regards a monopoly. This means healthy competition, even though the two major players are Government-owned.
The local terrain doesn’t make the job of those concerned any easier, with all the hills and valleys as well as other complications, like sharing an island with a different country that has a separate market including its own rules and regulations. Nevertheless, there have been quite a few complaints of late and, if asked, the average person using phone, Internet or whatever other related product probably would say things could be better.
Utilising modern devices, BTP intends to measure performance based on certain set parameters so that a supposedly objective picture can be obtained. The outcome then will be held against industry standards as outlined in the bureau’s quality policy and the levels agreed on in service contracts.
The plan to discuss the first results with the providers to give them the opportunity to make the necessary adjustments during the next six months seems sensible enough. There was no explanation as to what will happen if that deadline is not met or in case of downright refusal, but BTP as licensing agency obviously has certain administrative authorities and sanction options that could be applied.
Hopefully the latter won’t be necessary, because in the end the entire sector and its consumers benefit from ensuring the best possible service, also in light of the island’s competitive position as tourism destination and place to do business. They should keep in mind that there’s always room for improvement.
