Less effort, more loyalty – Customer Effort Score (CES)
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Less effort, more loyalty – Customer Effort Score (CES)

20.8.2025

How less effort in customer service brings more loyalty

Customer satisfaction with Internet providers starts with less friction

In the telecommunications industry, excellent customer service is no longer a differentiating factor, but a non-negotiable basic requirement. Nevertheless, many Internet providers and public utilities continue to invest in excessive service promises – instead of optimizing the decisive factor: the effort for customers.

This also confirms that Kano model, which divides customer expectations into basic, performance and enthusiasm characteristics. What used to trigger “enthusiasm” – such as hotlines available around the clock or particularly friendly support – is now taken for granted. If this expectation is not met, dissatisfaction immediately ensues.

It is therefore no longer just the “wow effect” that is decisive for genuine customer loyalty, but a smooth, efficient service experience.

One of the biggest customer loyalty studies, carried out by Corporate Executive Board, occupied: It is not enthusiasm that creates loyalty, but a simple troubleshooting process. The Customer Effort Score (CES) measures exactly that – and its predictive power beats classic key figures such as NPS or CSAT clearly.

Find out how the Kano model helps to design modern service experiences.
Read here why customer experience is a key competitive advantage.

What makes CES so relevant for Internet providers?

Ob router setup, WiFi issues or Contract issues: Many customer service processes are still associated with unnecessary complexity. Long waiting times, repeated information, media disruption or channel switching from app to hotline create frustration – and drive customers to compete.

Find out how common WiFi problems lead to customer frustration.

Self-service as the key: Reduce customer expenses in a targeted manner

Modern self-service solutions such as those from MyProvider enable a paradigm shift: Instead of complex processes, customers expect an intuitive, consistent experience.

Read here how Internet providers improve the customer experience with the right solution.
Or are you interested in how service apps become digital marketing channels?

Why a low CES contributes to customer loyalty

Studies show: Customers with high service costs are four times more likely to be dissatisfied. The effects:

  • Higher termination rates
  • Decreasing brand loyalty
  • More service contacts and support costs

A low CES, on the other hand, correlates with:

  • Higher probability of repurchase
  • Lower churn rate
  • More up-selling and cross-selling potential

What factors lead to dissatisfaction in customer service? Read it now.

One of the best customer service apps in the telecommunications industry

M-net hilft app: Successful customer service

Find out in our case study how the M-net hilft app has revolutionized service — from challenges to successful implementation. Discover exciting insights and real user testimonials.

M-net helps app: Successful in customer service

Features that reduce effort – and improve CES

Self-service only works when it is actually used. That is why myProvider uses intuitive, well-thought-out features that offer real added value:

  • Self-service instead of hotline: Setup, fault, contract questions – anytime via app
  • Context-based redirection: Transfer to the service center if required – including prepared data for significantly shorter AHT
  • In the Conntac Dashboard: All relevant findings & trends for targeted improvement of the customer journey for service managers

Find out here why helping people to help themselves is a decisive factor in support.
Or read here how technical problems are visible directly in the dashboard.

CES-oriented service processes: What large companies are showing

Bell Canada, a leading telecommunications provider, uses automated fault diagnostics and step-by-step instructions in the app, which have significantly reduced hotline contacts. Fidelity, an international financial services firm, in turn, facilitates access to answers through contextual digital customer support instead of complex FAQs. The result: less effort for customers, faster solutions and more loyalty.

Do you know which strategies are decisive for customer service in the future?

Conclusion: Simplicity is the strongest lever for customer satisfaction

Internet providers, public utilities and network operators should Don't invest in moments of surprise, but consistently streamline processes. Anyone who manages to eliminate complexity strengthens customer loyalty, reduces costs and makes self-service a strategic success factor.

We've done the research for you on how to find the right balance between technology and humanity.

Increase service efficiency with MyProvider

Reduce costs for your customers with a modern self-service solution – and increase your service efficiency at the same time.

Conntac's myProvider solution supports the To improve customer effort score sustainably – through automated customer service, cross-channel processes, and a powerful dashboard for support teams.

Photo of Johanna Kugler
Johanna Kugler

Content Marketing Manager

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