WORKFORCE ON THE MOVE 16/11/2004

UK workers are embracing mobile computing, with the Midlands leading the pack even though Greater London has the highest concentration of wireless hotspots. Continental Research and IBM surveyed 200 office workers, and found that 44 percent in the Midlands use a laptop to work away from the office, compared to 37 percent in the South and 36 percent in the North.

When looking at specific regions, East Anglia has the most mobile workers in the UK with 71 percent using a laptop to work away from the office. That’s almost twice the 38 percent of Great Londoners surveyed. Tied for second place, the East Midlands and the North West each had 49 percent of the workforce using mobile computing. At 64 percent, the Business Services industry most frequently uses laptops away from the office, more than the manufacturing and transport/communications sectors.

The survey also illuminated the need for faster Internet access for mobile workers. Results showed 38 percent of respondents are frustrated by slow connections. Furthermore, 31 percent said they are often unable to find an Internet connection in the form of a suitable landline or Wi-Fi network.

Many UK professionals are taking their laptops on the road with them, but getting online when away from the office can still present a challenge.

Contact: www.pc.ibm.com/uk