Combined data pools: flexible SIM card management across multiple IoT operators

When deploying IoT solutions, situations often arise where multiple IoT connectivity providers (MNOs, MVNOs) are used in parallel. This may be driven by technical requirements, commercial considerations, legacy systems, or operational strategy. In such cases, fragmented management across multiple connectivity management platforms is undesirable. A combined data pool offers a solution for these challenges.
With a combined data pool, SIM cards from different network providers (operators) share one central data bundle. This provides insight, control, and scalability—without dependency on a single network or operator (MNO or MVNO).

What is a combined data pool?

A data pool is a group of SIM cards that jointly uses a shared data bundle. In a combined setup, those SIM cards come from different operators and are managed within one environment. Thingsdata automatically registers and balances data usage across the entire pool.

This approach is especially valuable for IoT applications that are geographically distributed or have varying network requirements. By assigning devices to different operators while centralizing the data bundle, you gain maximum control over usage and costs.

In which situations does a combined data pool add value?

There are several strategic and technical scenarios where a combined data pool is beneficial. A few recognizable examples:

Scalable rollout across multiple markets

When expanding into new markets—such as between Europe and North America—local networks can be integrated into the same data pool without rebuilding infrastructure or an operating model.

Distributed projects or business units

Organizations with multiple locations, customers, or subsidiaries sometimes use different SIM cards per site or contract. With a combined data pool, these can still be managed and billed centrally.

Technical requirements per device

Some IoT devices require specific network technologies such as LTE-M or NB-IOT, which are not supported by every operator. By including SIM cards from different networks in one pool, functional requirements per device can be met.

Cost control and usage balancing

By pooling the usage of all SIM cards, peaks and troughs can be balanced across the entire organization. This prevents unused data bundles or unexpected overages per SIM card.

One platform for multi-operator management: Thingsdata Control

Thingsdata Control was developed as a management environment where SIM cards from different networks can be controlled centrally. The platform acts as a single pane of glass for provisioning, monitoring, and reporting—regardless of the operator used.

Features of Thingsdata Control:

• Real-time insight into data usage per SIM card, region, or project.
• Configuration of alerts, limits, and reporting.
• Grouping of SIM cards based on application or geography.
• Full API integration.

This creates a future-proof model where IoT connectivity is not tied to one operator, but fully aligned with your technical and operational strategy.

More information

Would you like to know more about how a combined data pool can contribute to scalable and manageable SIM card management within your organization? Thingsdata supports the design and implementation of multi-provider strategies within one central platform.

Contact us via +31-85-0443500 or email info@thingsdata.com. We are happy to think along with you.