A TOP-10 list of strategies for fleet decision-makers has identified key areas where businesses can save money on their communication costs.

Business-to-business communications specialist, Axxent Voice and Data Communications, has created the list to help companies organise an effective communications strategy.

The self-help guide warns that choosing the right supplier in the first place is a vital first step towards effective communications.

A spokesman said: 'Choose a supplier that can provide both mobile and fixed wire services and then negotiate combined rates and discounts with them.

'Check that the chosen supplier has endorsements from the mobile and fixed wire operators they are recommending. In today's turbulent market look for a company that is well-established and has a list of loyal customers.'

Communications management is the second key area, ensuring the supplier offers enough support, allowing staff to concentrate on core roles.

Effective supplier reviews should also be introduced, with the firm visiting your premises at least every three months to review the communications account. The spokesman said: 'Move away from using tariffs where calls are 'bundled' into a single line rental.

'By paying for line rental and calls separately you will be paying for what you use, meaning that call usage can be monitored and managed far more effectively.'

Regular reviews are vital because of the fast pace of change in the market, while choosing the right communications package is also a key factor. Research should include looking at independent suppliers, as well as phone network providers.

'Consider using the same network as your clients. This is a very simple option to save costs. By agreeing to both move to the best tariff and network, you will both reduce call spend.'

Ensuring your supplier can provide electronic or web-based management reports will allow easy analysis of costs, while up-to-date advice on new products should also be available. Axxent added: 'When evaluating suppliers, don't just look at mobile spend. Consider calls to and from the office and ensure these rates are as low as possible as well.'

Top 10 tips for effective communication

Try to choose a supplier that can provide both mobile and fixed wire services and then negotiate combined rates and discounts with them

Ensure that the supplier offers you a full-managed service

Review suppliers regularly and ensure they visit your premises every three months

Move away from using tariffs where calls are 'bundled' into a single line rental

Review your mobile tariffs every six months and the supplier every 12 months

Look at independent suppliers, as well as phone network providers

Use the same network as your client to save money on calls

Ensure that your supplier can provide you with electronic or web-based management reports to allow you to easily analyse your usage and make informed decisions

Look for a supplier that can also offer you help, support and advice on new products, services and technologies

Consider fixed line and mobile spend