The government's plans for Digital Britain are likely to be undermined by limitations in the broadband which are also holding back the uptake of Cloud Computing by SMEs.
“What I see as the biggest challenge for Cloud Computing - where the big growth potential is - is, when we unlock it, working together with the telecoms market, how we can really seize that SMB market potential” said Matt Yardley, partner at telecoms consultancy Analysys. “Here in the UK, we are just starting to see new networks being rolled out
but, it's a long, long way off until we have full availability, ubiquitous coverage of those networks, particularly if we think about both fixed and mobile networks."
"This places a natural constraint on the small and medium-enterprise market potential [of Cloud Computing]," he added. "What I see as the biggest challenge for cloud computing - where the big growth potential is - is when we unlock it, working together with the telecoms market, how we can really seize that SME market potential.”
Analysis recommends that instead of relying on Wi-Fi hotspots, SMEs should use mobile broadband USB sticks and datacards when travelling to save their businesses up to £2145 each year. According to a report from the firm - Small enterprises save money with mobile broadband – Analysys estimates that a single employee who travels throughout the year can accumulate Wi-Fi hotspot charges of up to £700.
“Seemingly small technology expenses incurred by many employees add up quickly,” says Steve Hilton, Principal Analyst.
“In a tough economy, SMEs need to find ways to reduce costs, increase productivity and remain competitive. Taking advantage of simple technology solutions, such as mobile broadband, with payback periods of 6 months is a sound business practice.”
