More than half unaware of 3G data cards

January 15, 2007

A survey conducted for mobile operator O2 Ireland has revealed that while use of laptop computers has increased amongst Irish small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs), more than 50% are unaware of 3G data cards, reported by Telecom World Wire.

The survey, which was conducted by TNS mrbi and involved over 300 owners/directors employing 1-250 people, also found that laptop PC usage amongst SME directors has risen from 36% in 2004, to 46% currently. However it determined that 54% of the respondents do not know what 3G data cards are and that only 8% of respondents aware of the technology are using 3G data cards.

According to O2 Ireland, the study indicates that there is substantial scope to increase business productivity in Ireland's SME sector and provides important information for those selling business technology and services. It claimed that around 52% of SME senior executives do not yet know what VoIP is and suggested the industry talks more of business benefits and uses less jargon in the future.

In addition the survey found that while 3G data card use enables executives to access the office server and e-mail remotely, only 18% of respondents had secure access to business documents while out of the office.