Economic efficiency refers to the relative valuations the users attach to their network service.
Feedback signals from the network can help to increase both types of efficiency. In this way many of the congestion problems that can occur if the offered load is regarded as fixed can be avoided . The flexible users absorb the longer delays and do not tie up network resources, which can therefore be used to serve less flexible users. A cost measure can be defined for any level of network operation. If the prices quoted to the users reflect the current costs of operating the network, then those users who value network service more will choose to transmit, and users who value it less will wait for lower prices.