The verdict in three sentences
For a master distributor managing 1,800 sub-dealers of airtime and SIM cards, calculating tiered commissions in spreadsheets breeds errors, disputes and fraud. A custom platform that tracks electronic stock per outlet, calculates commissions automatically and equips field sales reps with an app costs between USD 70,000 and 120,000. Delivery takes 4 months.
How an airtime distribution network works in Singapore
The master distributor buys electronic airtime, prepaid top-ups and SIM cards from operators, then resells them to wholesalers, sub-dealers and thousands of convenience stores and phone shops. Each level earns a margin or commission depending on monthly volume, SIM activations and sometimes one-off operator targets. At month-end, the finance team consolidates operator platform statements, matches them with reported sales and calculates by hand what everyone is owed.
| Current pain | Estimated impact 2026 | Software function |
|---|---|---|
| Commissions calculated in spreadsheets | 6 days a month, 3 people | Automatic tiered commission engine |
| Calculation errors | 2 to 3 % of commissions paid | Versioned, auditable rules |
| Sub-dealer disputes | 120 claims a month | Statement viewable on mobile |
| Electronic stock-outs | Lost sales at peak hours | Alert thresholds per outlet |
| SIM activation fraud | Undue commissions | Matching with operator data |
| Unproven field visits | Ineffective coverage | Geolocated app for field reps |
Example tiered commission scale
| Monthly airtime sales tier | Sub-dealer commission | SIM activation bonus |
|---|---|---|
| Under USD 3,500 | 2.5 % | USD 0.50 per active SIM |
| USD 3,500 to 8,500 | 3.0 % | USD 0.70 per active SIM |
| USD 8,500 to 17,000 | 3.5 % | USD 0.85 per active SIM |
| USD 17,000 to 34,000 | 4.0 % | USD 1.00 per active SIM |
| Over USD 34,000 | 4.5 % | USD 1.20 per active SIM |
This scale is a 2026 order of magnitude: each operator and master distributor sets its own rates. The platform lets you change tiers without development and keeps the full history, essential for audits and disputes.
Modules and budget
| Module | Scope | Indicative budget |
|---|---|---|
| Network master data | Hierarchy of master, wholesalers, sub-dealers, outlets | USD 9,000 to 15,000 |
| Electronic stock | Balances per outlet, transfers, alerts | USD 15,000 to 26,000 |
| Commission engine | Tiers, bonuses, targets, simulation | USD 17,000 to 29,000 |
| Field rep app | Visits, photos, readings, offline mode | USD 13,000 to 23,000 |
| Commission payouts | Bank transfer or PayNow, statements, claims | USD 8,000 to 14,000 |
| Dashboards | Sales by zone, top and bottom performers, fraud | USD 8,000 to 13,000 |
| Total | Delivered in 4 months | USD 70,000 to 120,000 |
In Singapore, sub-dealers are typically paid by bank transfer or PayNow, and the platform handles multiple currencies for regional networks covering Malaysia or Indonesia.
Mini case study
Wei Ling, managing director of a master distributor in Singapore, runs 1,800 sub-dealers and pays about USD 1.6 million in commissions a year. Errors amount to 2.5 %, or USD 40,000, often in the dealers' favour. The platform brings that down to 0.3 %, saving USD 35,200. It also frees 3 people for 6 days a month, worth about USD 30,000 a year. By limiting stock-outs, she gains 1 % extra sales, or USD 28,000 in margin. For a USD 100,000 project, payback comes in around 13 months.
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FAQ
Does the platform connect to operator systems?
Yes, via API where the operator provides one, otherwise by importing daily statements. Automatic matching flags gaps above 0.5 %.
Does the field rep app work offline?
Yes, visits and readings are stored offline and synced later. This matters inside malls and basement shops where signal can be weak.
Can sub-dealers see their commissions?
Yes, through a mobile portal or a monthly SMS statement. Transparency cuts claims by 60 to 80 % based on our estimates.
Can we simulate a new scale before applying it?
Yes, the simulator calculates the impact of a new scale on the last 3 months of sales. You see the exact cost before announcing it to the network.
What do hosting and maintenance cost?
Plan USD 300 to 700 a month for hosting and 10 to 15 % of the initial budget per year for ongoing maintenance.
Let's scope your project. Describe your network, commission scales and operator partners: we will price a scope between USD 70,000 and 120,000, delivered in 4 months. Detailed quote within 48 h. WhatsApp +221 77 596 93 33.
Mohamed Bah
Fondateur, Kolonell
Passionate about digital and entrepreneurship in Africa, Mohamed has been helping Sénégalese businesses with their digital transformation since 2020. Founder of Kolonell, he believes every SME deserves a professional and accessible online présence.
