The broadband revolution
Jun 05 2002
Broadband4Britain, an independent media pressure group, says that smaller companies operating in the media sector will benefit from the arrival of the new faster broadband internet technology.
Andy Williams, campaign manager for Broadband4Britain, says that the main advantages of the new technology are its speed and the fact it is permanently connected, all of which could lead to efficiency gains in terms of time, planning and money.
Broadband operates 10 times faster than conventional internet access, meaning that internet use is much quicker and e-mails can be received instantly, "putting them on a par with the telephone" as a means of communication.
Moreover, small companies that frequently transfer or download large pieces of data, such as images, can do so much quicker. This should speed up many production processes for publishers and video/DVD producers.
Williams argues that broadband has also has serious implications for internet advertising. He describes current internet advertising as "not much more than animated billboards." Broadband, however, gives users and customers access to "richer media" (the likes of video and animation). This offers greater scope for creativity and opens up new possibilities in the industry.
Perhaps the most appealing benefit of broadband for SMEs though is that it can significantly cut costs for those that rely heavily on the internet. He claims one company reduced its internet bill from £1,500 to £150 a month by switching to broadband.
There are a number of broadband providers in the market and prices start from around £100 a month. There are also installation charges, but "self install" systems have recently become available, which would reduce installation costs, although Williams does say that self install systems are "strictly for those with some [technological] savvy."
SMEs interested in the possibilities of broadband should visit www.broadband4britain.co.uk for more information.
See also Web and e-Business.
With thanks to Lloyds TSB Success4Business. For more news and information visit www.success4business.com .
(30/5/02)
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