Rural broadband promised by the autumn
Jul 01 2002
Small businesses in rural areas will have better access to affordable broadband services from the autumn thanks to a proposed network of regional broadband advisers announced by e-commerce minister Stephen Timms. The news follows national campaigns to increase the availability of high-speed broadband technology in non-urban areas.
The new network will also go some way towards educating internet users about the new technology. This is particularly important as research from broadband provider BT Openworld indicates that ignorance of "always on" connections is preventing users from making "the leap" from standard dial-up services.
Andy Williams, campaign manager for independent pressure group Broadband4Britain, believes many small businesses can benefit from taking up the broadband option. He says it can offer time and cost efficiencies because of its speed and the fact it is always on.
Broadband operates around 10 times faster than standard internet access, meaning companies that use the internet a lot can work much faster. The technology also allows e-mails to be received instantly, "putting them on a par with the telephone" as an efficient means of communication.
Companies that transfer or download large pieces of data, such as images, software or other large computer files, could do so much quicker with broadband, speeding up working processes.
Broadband can also be cost-effective for smaller businesses that rely heavily on the internet. Williams cites one company that cut its internet costs from £1,500 to £150 a month.
Prices for broadband start at around £100 a month, with a number of providers in the market. There are also installation charges, although "self-install" systems are available. However, Williams warns that these are "strictly for those with some [technological] savvy."
UK online for business, the Government-run e-commerce advisory service, has produced a booklet, Broadband – A guide for small businesses. This explains the technology, the various types of connection, availability and costs. It also examines which kinds of businesses would benefit, and the advantages and disadvantages. The booklet can be obtained from www.ukonlineforbusiness.gov.uk or by calling 0845-715 2000.
Small businesses can also visit www.broadband4britain.co.uk for more information about the new technology.
See also Web.
(1/7/02)
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