Survey: SMBs Look for Converged Communications Platforms

The SMB market continues to be fertile ground for providers of converged communications platforms, according to research from the Computing Technology Industry Association Inc. (CompTIA).

Nearly one-third of the more than 350 SMBs surveyed said they intend to buy new phone systems or make significant investments in their current systems over the next year.

When asked why they intend to invest in new communications solutions, 46 percent said they are looking for savings generated through streamlining business processes; 30 percent cited cost-cutting in their IT and communications spending; and 23 percent said the desire to launch new services or capabilities drives their spending plans.

“Each of these investment drivers is associated with converged communications systems," said John Venator, president and CEO of CompTIA. “It's clear the benefits of converging voice and data onto a single network are more apparent to businesses, regardless of their size. Whether it’s reduced communications costs, better operational efficiency, or improved productivity, small and medium-sized businesses are eager to embrace the technology.”

Just 17 percent of SMBs surveyed already have taken steps to converge their voice and data traffic onto a single network. Yet among those businesses with separate voice and data networks, two-thirds said they recognize the business value of converged communications. The survey also showed nearly 90 percent of SMBs believe their IT provider has the skills and capabilities to provide them with the converged communication platforms they need.

CompTIA commissioned IDC to survey individuals involved in purchasing voice and data communications systems for companies with 20 to 500 employees.

Computing Technology Industry Association Inc. www.comptia.org

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