IT managers seek bandwidth efficiency

More managers than ever are moving over to internet protocol (IP) based telecoms in an effort to get the most efficient use from their networks, the latest IDC user survey has revealed.

One in eight of the companies surveyed by the analyst organisation were already running a combined voice and data network, with another third planning to install such a network within the next two years.

The survey of 625 European companies also found that 15 per cent of those questioned were already using a pure or hybrid IP-PBX.

The report found that cutting or controlling costs was no longer the prime concern of wide area network (Wan) managers. Quality of network traffic and data security has instead become the main issue.

"I don't think this is a sign that budgets are freeing up across Europe," said Jill Finger Gibson, program manager with IDC's European telecoms services group.

"In the past people's primary concern was always about how to save money. Now people are thinking instead about how to improve the overall performance and functionality of their networks rather than fixating on cost."