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The BBC announced this year (2008) that it would be swapping all of its 0870 telephone numbers for the new corresponding 03 number: 0370.

Some of its divisions have changed and you can hear the latest 03 numbers being advertised on Radio 1 and Radio 2 and across its local television network, for example.

Its huge fundraising event, Children in Need also used an 03 number as its main donation line.

Here are several facts why the BBC has opted for 03 numbers:

1. Different to 0870 numbers, 03 numbers cost the same to call as standard 01/02 phone numbers even when using a mobile phone (40% of telephone calls are now made from mobiles).
2. The public trust 03 numbers due to their transparent call charges. This is particularly relavent for the BBC which receives funding from license-fee payers. 03 numbers are caller friendly and as such not prone to negative publicity.
3. 03 equivalent numbers are available which lets organisations swap their 08 numbers for 03. On the other hand, some highly memorable 03 numbers (0333 or 0300 etc.) can be bought as the number series is still fairly new.
4. Most non-geographic numbers, 03 numbers provide the BBC a country wide presence. This means it can publish one single memorable number all through the United Kingdom – which is not location focused. This is particularly important for its national TV and radio services.
5. The BBC can deal with enquirers more readily by using call management systems to their 03 Numbers
6. Its numerous departments can manage where they want to receive their calls (especially out of hours and in an urgent situation) easily via the web/phone.
7. They can see the place the caller is located, times of high caller usage and the time taken to answer all calls with online Call Statistics packages.

8. You are able to record calls to 03 numbers without bringing in costly physical hardware.
9. Callers can be place in an enquiry line, which ensures that all important calls will be dealt with.
10. They can frequently be extremely reasonable to run if you seek out the provider with the most competitive offering in the market.

It’s clear that 03 numbers are quickly becoming the telephone number of choice for many United Kingdom organisations.
Im sure, the 10 points above should offer a starting point to the reasons why the 03 number is so popular.