Telstra is talking up the benefits of its Next G wireless broadband and mobile services for business users by citing statistics from a study commissioned by the telco in conjunction with Ericsson, that states that according to a sample of Australian businesses using Next G, their productivity has risen 9.3 per cent.
The research covered a selection of businesses operating in rural and remote areas and some with staff working out of the office, such as sales people. Independent research company Econtech carried our the study, which included “detailed interviews” with 26 businesses which had been using Telstra Next G for seven-and-a-half months on average.
Telstra reports the respondents gained productivity by remotely accessing information through mobile broadband allowing them to cut administration staff costs; accessing the internet while travelling, converting ‘dead time’ into productive time; using video calling to provide on the spot technical troubleshooting; and improving inventory management by recording and sending details of parts and equipment used.
Telstra Business Group managing director, Deena Shiff, says mobile communication is revolutionising the way Australian businesses operate.
“The independent research has confirmed that businesses are discovering new and innovative ways to use mobile phones and wireless internet and this is helping their bottom line,” she said.
“Telstra’s Next G network is offering faster mobile internet speeds which has blurred the lines between what is possible in the office and what can now be done out on the road.
“Companies of all sizes are now integrating Next G mobile technology into their every day business dealings, which in some instances has helped some customers achieve productivity gains as high as 27 per cent.”
Companies participating in the preliminary research represent fifteen industries including: agriculture, forestry & fishing; mining; manufacturing; construction; wholesale trade; retail trade; accommodation, cafes and restaurants; transport; finance and insurance; property and business services; government administration and defence; education, health and community services; cultural and recreational services; and personal and other services.