Mod Emeritus
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As many know, number porting is where you take your old phone number that you used with your provider, and move to it a different provider. People calling you are none the wiser and you get the freedom to choose a provider that you wish while the changes are transparent to your friends and family. This applies to both mobile and PSTN porting.
To consider whether number portability is 'worth' the hassle there are some things to keep in mind:
First: Do you give your number out to people?
Second: Do you get calls on your number as it is?
If you don't get any calls, you don't give out the number - then number portability is a mute point. You could do it, but at the same time, you could pick up a new number just as easily
Third: Have you given out your number to friends or family?
Fourth: Do you know all the companies that you gave your number to? This includes internet providers, insurance, power companies, banks, workplaces, people that you are employing (if you are a business), doctors, contractors (if you are getting work done around the home/workplace etc)? Have you updated your CV (I forgot this when I went from VFNZ prepaid to On Account)?
Some of these numbers can be more important than one realizes, particularly with banks or companies that ring you to let you know that your payment didn't make it.
These two processes can take a long time, and can be very disruptive if you forgot to notify someone. For businesses, it can be very disruptive if they try to ring you regarding something important (like bills not being paid etc). For friends and family you *should* factor in the time and money (spend on calls, sms etc) contacting them, and also the inconvenience for them.
If you forget someone, it can be a very frustrating process for them trying to find out your new number. Porting avoids that.
Usually if the second, third, and/or fourth are true - its much easier to port your number. There may be costs to port it, however its case on how do you value your time...
