Finance and IT infrastructure key to a successful 2012
High-speed networks and 4G connectivity are now amongst the most important factors in businesses succeeding, according to a survey by Virgin Media Business. Whilst financing (36 per cent) remains the most important issue for 2012, improved access to super-fast connectivity is the top investment priority for UK businesses (31 per cent).
Further highlighting the need for a solid communications network, businesses said it is now ten times more important than utilities such as electricity and water.
In Virgin Media Business’ annual survey, just over half of the 5,000 businesses asked (54 per cent) said they were concerned about the year ahead. This is a one per cent rise from last year. However, technology-reliant businesses were most optimistic about the year ahead. At just under half (49 per cent), media companies were most confident, with financial services not far behind (47 per cent).
Mark Heraghty, Managing Director of Virgin Media Business, said, “Technology is a clear enabler to innovation, and one that is clearly becoming more important to UK businesses. Whilst overall the economy remains cautious, it’s those companies who are exploiting technology that are the most confident. There is scope for increased use of IT in all areas of the economy to drive innovative thinking, greater efficiencies and a stronger balance sheet. If the signs from the most tech-savvy sectors are anything to go by, it bodes well for the future.
“For businesses that would like to experiment further with how technology can help them, we have the network, the people and the creativity to go beyond traditional IT and advise businesses on how they can transform themselves no matter what challenges they may face.”
ENDS
Note to editors:
The research was carried out by LM Research and surveyed 5,000 directors / business owners from companies with 100+ employees between 12 December 2011 and 16 December 2011.
