MOBILE TERMINALS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS THAT CAN FACILITATE THE SELECTION OF A COMMUNICATION SERVICE PROVIDER IN A MULTIPLE COMMUNICATIONS MODE ENVIRONMENT

Using service provider selection methodologies and protocols developed for each specific communication mode, a configurable overlay can be created that can maximize the usability or availability of a multi-mode terminal or other communication device. A service provider can be selected for a primary communication mode using mode-specific provider can be selected for a primary communication mode using a mode-specific methodology or protocol to make the selection. The selection service provider is classified in accordance with a service provider selection model that defines a continuum of common service provider preference levels. The common service provider preference levels may includes a first category or reference levels that represent suitable or desirable communication service from which service may be required.