Analysis of factors that impact on GSM operator preference by using hidden Markov models

In this study, both Markov chains that frequently used for determining preference for short and long-term possibilities of brands and hidden Markov models that used to research the reason for preference were tackled. Not only operator preferences of mobile phone users but also its reasons hold key factors, such as cost-effectiveness, quality of service, using by circle, etc. The sample for this study was composed of university students which have major customer mass in the mobile communication space. Data about GSM operator preferences of students and their preference reasons were obtained via questionnaire. GSM operator preferences of university students in the future and determining of important factors in the preferences was analysed via hidden Markov models. Providing decision support for the operators carrying on a business in the mobile communication space was aimed with this study. Keywords: Mobile communication, GSM operators, Markov chains, hidden Markov models