Telecom costs are soaring, driven by more devices, new carriers, and tricky rate plans. For mid-sized and large Canadian businesses, trying to track invoices or device lists by hand just isn’t working anymore. That’s where expert Telecom Expense Management (TEM) providers truly shine. They offer big savings, better visibility, and more control. This guide explains why TEM is so important today, what top providers offer, how to pick the right one, who benefits most, key questions to ask and answers to common concerns.
What TEM Providers Do
TEM providers deliver integrated software and services. They handle all things telecom: wireless, landline, data, IoT, and cloud expenses. This includes managing device inventories and contracts throughout their entire lifespan.
Scope of Services
Invoice audits & dispute resolution:
They automatically scan invoices to spot errors, then challenge those errors with carriers.
Inventory & lifecycle tracking:
They keep detailed records of every device or circuit, from buying it to taking it out of service.
Cost optimization:
They analyze usage data to find unused lines and plans that aren't being fully utilized. This helps you save money.
Contract management:
They track renewal dates, make sure service agreements (SLAs) are met and even negotiate better rates for you.
Reporting & analytics framework:
You get easy-to-understand dashboards that show cost trends, usage details and future spending forecasts.
Benefits of Using a TEM Provider
Cost savings:
Businesses often report saving 15–30% by eliminating overcharges and making their assets more efficient. Imagine what that could mean for your budget!
Improved visibility:
You'll get clear, centralized dashboards. These show your telecom spending and usage broken down by department or location, giving you a complete picture.
Automation:
TEM tools drastically cut down on manual invoice processing. This frees up your Accounts Payable (AP) and IT teams to focus on more critical tasks.
Compliance & accountability:
They help you enforce company policies, create clear audit trails and easily attribute costs.
Scalable governance:
As your telecom assets grow, TEM tools grow with you. They provide timely alerts and real-time checks and ensure you stay in control.
Key Features to Expect
When looking for a TEM provider, these features are essential.
Invoice-audit engines:
These innovative systems automatically flag discrepancies, duplicate charges, or costs that don't follow your company's rules.
Inventory tracking:
Look for unified databases that track all your telecom assets, from start to finish. This means no more guessing what you have!
Contract renewal management:
The system should alert you when contract renewals are coming up and offer tools to compare rates, helping you get the best deal.
Reporting capabilities:
You need customizable dashboards. They should let you dig deep into cost and usage data, giving you actionable insights.
Integrations:
The best TEM platforms link seamlessly with your existing systems, like Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) tools (e.g., SAP, Oracle), IT Service Management (ITSM) platforms (e.g., ServiceNow) and procurement systems.
Mobile support:
Mobile apps are a huge plus! They let you approve requests and capture receipts even when you're away from your desk.
Security & compliance:
Ensure the provider follows strict security standards like SOC2, GDPR/PII controls and SSL encryption. Role-based access ensures only authorized users see sensitive data.
How to Evaluate Providers
Choosing the right Telecom Expense Management Service Provider takes careful thought. Here’s what to consider.
Experience & Scale:
Does the vendor have a proven history working with Canadian enterprises? Do they handle multiple carriers well? Top names like Sakon, Calero, Tangoe, and Upland/Cimpl often appear on Gartner's lists, with many positive reviews.
Service Scope:
Are you getting just software or a complete managed service? Do they actively look for ways to save you money, or report on your spending? Be aware that some providers might lack proactivity.
Global vs. Local Support:
Can they support your carriers across Canada, the U.S., or even globally, if needed?
Integration Flexibility:
Does their platform easily connect with your specific ERP or ITSM systems? Smooth integration is key to avoiding headaches.
Pricing Transparency:
Make sure all fees are transparent. Ask about audit fees, implementation charges, and how quickly they respond to service issues (SLA response times). No hidden surprises!
Onboarding & Support:
What's the typical implementation timeline (usually 3–6 months)? Do they offer Canadian-based support? Ask about their ticket Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and available training resources.
Take Control of Your Telecom Costs
Providers – Top 5 in Canada
01. Sakon
Sakon is a highly-rated TEM provider. Gartner rates them well. They offer global reach. They bring together TEM, mobile, and cloud services. Their goal is to help businesses understand, manage, and improve their communication setup.
Automated Invoice Collection & Checking:
They automatically receive and verify invoices. This finds errors, overcharges, and unused services.
Cost Check and Chargeback:
They ensure costs are allocated to the correct departments.
Real-time Needs and Market Data:
They help IT buyers find better networks. They use up-to-date market information.
Contract and Vendor Performance Reports:
They track renewal dates. They ensure service agreements are met. They help get better rates.
Workflow Automation:
They offer a full system for automating tasks. This is for Telecom Accounts Payable, Network Services, and IT Buying.
Unified Platform:
They put wireless, landline, data, IoT, and cloud costs in one view.
Best For
Large companies with complex global telecom needs. Those with many carriers, lots of mobile use, and big cloud spending. Businesses seeking a comprehensive solution that integrates seamlessly with their IT service management (ITSM) systems, particularly ServiceNow.
Who Should Choose This
Companies that want strong automation and global abilities. Those who need a place to see all communication and technology costs. If you want a partner with deep industry knowledge and active help to save money, choose Sakon.
Top-rated by Gartner, strong automation capabilities, global support, excellent customer service, deep integration with ServiceNow, and comprehensive coverage of TEM, MMS, and CEM.
Public reviews do not consistently highlight specific negatives. This suggests users generally have a good experience.
Pricing Model
Likely based on a subscription. Prices may change based on the number of telecom items, services, and the level of managed support. Sakon aims to provide clear cost savings and better operations.
Integrations
They are known for easy and deep links, especially with ServiceNow. This allows automated mobile tasks, service requests, and accurate asset info within Service Now’s system. They also connect to other business apps, vendor systems, and data sources using secure APIs.
Security & Compliance
Sakon keeps high security. They have SOC1, SOC2, and ISO 27001:2013 certificates. They also follow PCI Level 4 Merchant and CSA rules. Their security measures include staff background checks, robust network protection, and 24/7 monitoring.
Deployment & Accessibility
Their platform is cloud-based. This means you can access it easily from anywhere with an internet connection. It is designed for easy setup and linking with your current IT systems.
02. Calero
Calero (including its past as Veramark) is a long-standing and established TEM provider. They are recognized for their in-depth knowledge of telecom billing and effective contract management. They help with Technology Business Management (TBM) across telecom, mobile, and SaaS.
Invoice Checks & Fixing Issues:
They automatically scan invoices for errors. This identifies errors and helps resolve issues with carriers.
Device & Lifecycle Tracking:
They keep full records of devices and lines. This is from buying them to taking them out of service.
Cost Saving:
They look at usage data. They find lines and plans that are not used enough to help you save money.
Contract Management:
They track renewal dates. They ensure service agreements are kept. They help get better prices.
Ordering & Buying:
They make requesting and tracking new telecom services simple.
Network View:
They provide tools to view and understand your entire telecom setup.
Best For
Companies with complex telecom bills. Those needing careful contract management. Businesses want a full view of their tech spending across different areas (telecom, mobile, SaaS).
Who Should Choose This
Companies are seeking a provider with extensive knowledge of telecom billing, as well as one that requires a proven platform to manage their entire communication system.
Deep knowledge of telecom billing, strong contract management, effective in optimizing mobile costs, comprehensive technology business management, and robust reporting.
Some past comments say the setup can be slow. Recent user feedback is not easily found.
Pricing Model
Likely subscription-based. Pricing often changes based on the services (such as SaaS, mobile, or telecom) and the number of items or costs being managed. They aim to simplify and improve tech spending.
Integrations
They offer full connectors for automatic data sharing between telecom systems. They link to IT asset management. This gives clear views of devices and their life cycle.
Security & Compliance
Calero takes data security seriously. They have ISO 27001:2022 and ISO 27701:2019 certificates. They also have SOC2 Type II. Their security features include multi-factor authentication, real-time virus scanning, and encrypted disks.
Deployment & Accessibility
They offer both on-site and cloud options. This gives you choices. Their tools are designed to combine and share wired and wireless data. They offer better dashboards and flexible reports.
03. Tangoe
Tangoe is a big name in TEM. They cover telecom, IoT, and cloud expense management widely. They are known for strong automation. They aim to simplify complex tech systems.
Telecom Expense Management (TEM):
Core services include telecom expense audit service , reviewing invoices, resolving issues, and reducing costs.
Managed Mobility Services (MMS):
They manage mobile devices and services throughout their life.
Cloud Expense Management (CEM):
They give you a view and control over cloud spending.
Inventory & Asset Management:
They track all tech items in one place.
Automation:
They focus on automating invoice processing, data entry, and other manual tasks.
Best For
Companies with many types of tech, like old telecom, growing IoT solutions, and big cloud setups. Businesses that want to automate to reduce manual work and gain central control.
Who Should Choose This
Businesses are seeking a single solution to cover all their tech expenses, particularly those looking to utilize automation to streamline operations across telecom, mobile, and cloud services.
Wide coverage for telecom, IoT, and cloud; strong automation; aims to simplify complex tech setups; offers a full platform.
Some older reviews mention long setup times and issues with early product ideas. Few recent detailed reviews for TEM exist.
Pricing Model
Likely subscription-based. Pricing might be per-user or per-device. They focus on using AI to cut costs.
Integrations
Tangoe’s method enables seamless integration with most SaaS apps and websites. It integrates with knowledge bases, learning systems, ticketing systems, and chat systems. This lets staff get help right within the apps they use.
Security & Compliance
While specific security certificates for Tangoe’s TEM platform are not always clearly listed, their focus on AI-as-API suggests secure online interactions. As they serve large businesses, they are expected to adhere to industry security standards.
Deployment & Accessibility
It’s a cloud-based platform. You can use it with a web browser. They focus on an intuitive user experience that seamlessly integrates into your current workflow without requiring new interfaces.
04. Upland Cimpl
Upland Cimpl is a TEM provider focusing on SaaS. It's known for quick setup and good ratings. They aim to make managing telecom, mobile and cloud costs easier. This gives you better views and control.
Invoice-Audit Systems:
Automated systems flag issues. These include differences, double charges, and rules not followed.
Inventory Tracking:
A single database tracks all telecom assets from initial acquisition to final disposition.
Contract Renewal Management:
It alerts you about upcoming renewals. It has tools to compare prices.
Reporting Options:
Dashboards can be changed. They help you delve deeply into cost and usage data for valuable insights.
Automated Billing & Payments:
It simplifies invoice processing and ensures timely payments.
Procurement Workflows:
It automates approval steps for buying technology.
Best For
Mid-sized to large Canadian businesses. Those seeking an easy-to-use SaaS TEM solution that can be set up quickly. Companies that value strong reporting and automation to save money on tech.
Who Should Choose This
Businesses are looking to quickly gain control over telecom, mobile, and cloud costs. They want easy-to-use software and strong analytics. If you want to give staff and managers clear views of their usage, choose Cimpl.
SaaS-based and quick to set up, good ratings, easy to use, strong support, full reporting, and links with many systems.
Some users find the portal takes time to learn. Complex initial setups can take longer.
Pricing Model
Likely subscription-based. Prices usually depend on the number of managed assets and the specific features or services choosen. Upland Cimpl aims to maximize value and optimize IT budgets.
Integrations
It connects widely with over 250 systems. This includes major ERP (like SAP, Oracle), ITSM (like ServiceNow), and buying platforms. This gives you one view of tech costs.
Security & Compliance
Upland, the main company, places a strong focus on security. They have a team for cybersecurity. They work with AWS and Microsoft Azure for secure data centers. They emphasize secure product making. While Cimpl’s specific certificates aren’t always listed, Upland generally follows top industry security rules.
Deployment & Accessibility
It’s a SaaS model. This means you can easily get to it via a web browser. It’s designed for quick setup to deliver value quickly. It offers both self-service and managed service choices.
05. brightfin
Brightfin started with a strong focus on mobile (from Visage). It has evolved to provide comprehensive visibility into IT spending. This includes managing hardware and telecom costs. All of these links are directly related to ServiceNow.
Automated Invoice Processing & Payments:
It simplifies money tasks and finds billing errors.
Inventory Management & Cost Sharing:
It links invoices to items. It tracks usage and assigns costs within ServiceNow.
Contract Management & Benchmarking:
It leverages industry knowledge for contract negotiations and compares spending against others.
Historical Audits & Problem Solving:
It identifies discrepancies and resolves issues with carriers.
Managed Mobility Services (MMS):
It's a full mobile service. This includes buying, setting up, managing devices, and helping users.
Native ServiceNow Integration:
All data, tasks, and reports are in ServiceNow. This makes it a single record system.
Best For
Companies that use ServiceNow a lot. Those wanting to keep their IT costs and devices managed within that system. Businesses want a single platform and real-time views.
Who Should Choose This
Businesses are seeking a TEM provider that integrates seamlessly with their ServiceNow system. They want to simplify IT and finance tasks. They also need full views of mobile and IT spending.
The direct ServiceNow link is a significant advantage for ServiceNow users, offering full mobile management, a strong focus on IT spending views, and automated tasks.
Newer to the wider TEM market than some older players. Specific drawbacks are not widely described in public reviews.
Pricing Model
Likely subscription-based. Pricing models vary based on the services managed and the level of ServiceNow usage. They focus on getting value from IT spending within ServiceNow.
Integrations
Its main feature is deep, direct integration with ServiceNow. This creates a single record system for all telecom costs, device life cycle, purchasing, and device management data.
Security & Compliance
It uses ServiceNow’s strong security. This ensures high data protection. While specific direct certificates for Brightfin itself are not always publicly available, working within ServiceNow ensures it adheres to top security standards for businesses.
Deployment & Accessibility
It’s cloud-based. You can mostly access it through the ServiceNow platform. This gives users a single, familiar experience.
Who Needs a TEM Provider
Many types of organizations benefit greatly from TEM providers
Mid to large businesses:
If your company is growing, managing telecom becomes complex.
Multi-location teams:
Keeping track of services across different offices is tough without help.
Companies with 50+ mobile/telecom assets:
Once your device count grows, manual tracking is impossible.
Organizations using multiple carriers/vendors:
Juggling contracts and invoices from many providers is a huge task.
Questions to Ask Before Choosing
- Compatibility with carriers: Do they work well with all your current telecom carriers, both in Canada and internationally?
- Visibility/reporting capabilities: What kind of reports will you get? Can you customize dashboards to see what matters most to you?
- Contract flexibility: How do they handle contract changes? Can they help renegotiate terms or manage renewals effectively?
- Dispute management: What is their process for finding and resolving billing errors with carriers? How often do they succeed?
- SLA terms: What are their Service Level Agreements? How quickly do they respond to issues or requests?
- Integration with current tools: Will their system easily connect with your existing ERP, IT service management (ITSM), or other financial software?
Conclusion
Choosing the right TEM provider like CanComCo can transform your telecom spending. They offer significant savings, clear visibility and robust control. Take time to audit your current telecom costs. Then, thoroughly check a shortlist of providers. This will help you find the best Telecom Expense Management service provider for your company’s needs in 2025. Act now to gain control of your telecom future!
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