Ex post vs. ex ante pricing: Optional calling plans and tapered tariffs

摘要: We study optimal nonuniform pricing in a setting where customer's demand at the start of billing period contains random variable whose realization becomes known by end period. In this context, an optional calling plan is tariff which consumer must select based on his/her expectations about variable, whereas, under tapered tariff, consumer's choice usage charge made after he/she knows variable. show that for low to moderate levels uncertainty entering function, approach yields higher expected profit than does approach, given risk-neutral consumers. illustrate finding with case and argue it consistent historical evolution tariffs interexchange telecommunications market.