Article: MVNEs maneuver behind the scenes: mobile virtual network enablers say they will use their wireless expertise to make prospective MVNOs profitable, but not everyone believes in this strategy.(Service Providers)(mobile virtual network operators)

Behind every great wireless provider, there is a plethora of "behind-the-scenes" services that interoperate to make a successful business. Billing systems, customer care platforms, activation processes and distribution channels are all critical to the success of a wireless provider. But does every MVNO need to procure these backoffice systems, or can they be outsourced to another firm?

The flurry of activity among MVNOs has created a cottage industry for the mobile virtual network enabler, or MVNE. The MVNE handles all of the operations for the MVNO while the MVNO brands and markets the service. Exactly how much behind-the-scenes work is offloaded to the MVNE ...