Brand owners will now be able to check the accuracy of customers’ mobile phone numbers at the touch of a button, with the launch of an online service from Experian QAS.
The company, which has built its business on the address verification service, uses real-time checks with the mobile phone networks to ensure that telephone numbers provided by customers entered into contact forms or databases are accurate.
QAS Mobile Validate can also update existing records in bulk that have been previously captured, preventing future issues such as failed permission-based SMS messages.
The Web service verifies the mobile phone number is correct and connected to a supplier network. It also verifies that the mobile phone number is currently switched on and whether it was previously transferred over from another network.
QAS Mobile Validate expands the company’s range of data quality tools, including email as well as postal addresses.
Experian QAS managing director Joel Curry said: “As an average consumer rarely lets their mobile phone out of sight, permission-based mobile marketing is rapidly growing. A valid mobile phone number can be used to send permission-based messages that include offers and promotions and product and service updates to increase repeat business and attract new customers. And it is effective. The open rate for SMS messages is over 98%.
“As with all aspects of contact data, it is important not to think of mobile phone numbers as isolated pieces of data. They play an integral role in how an organisation engages with its customers, whether that is for marketing or service related communications. The more accurate this data is, the more valuable it is for customer acquisition and retention.”
