Factor Analysis for G.S.M. Services Congestion The Case of MTN Nigeria

Abstract

Congestion in GSM networks service provision in Nigerian are evidenced by escalating incidences of drop calls, lost calls and other service disruptions that affect the quality of services offered by GSM operators. Using MTN Nigeria as a case study, we investigated factors responsible for the congestion problems experienced in GSM services. Stratified random sampling techniques were used to select samples of six out of 36 states in the country to form the target population for the study. This is combined with automated machine generated data supplemented by unstructured interview to obtain data gathered for analysis. Six hypotheses were formulated and tested in line with the set objectives. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed for data analysis. The findings from our research showed that contrary to generally held opinion, calls peaked during the evening (between the hours of 7pm - 8pm) rather than during working hours and congestion is not totally positively correlated to the carrying capacity of the MTN infrastructure. The study identified other extraneous factors that contribute to congestion problem to include equipment vandalization: poor weather and high rise buildings in the line of sight between towers.