Everything Everywhere (owners of T-Mobile and Orange) and the largest mobile service provider commissioned Coleman Parkes to undertake the study, as part of its ongoing 4G PR blitz (see CBR story here).
EE’s research showed that 94% of the senior decision makers saying the UK needs it to remain competitive and protect jobs. 86% of business leaders believe that access to a 4G network will increase their business productivity.
The survey suggests mobile devices are now essential to Britons, with 72% of business leaders using the mobile internet on a daily basis for work purposes. Nine out of ten do this at least once a week, according to the report.
Over half of respondents (52%) cite greater levels of flexible working as the primary expected benefit of a 4G network.Nearly a third (29%) of respondents believe that engaging with customers and colleagues across a variety of channels, such as mobile TV and video conferencing is the main benefit they expect from 4G. 27% of respondents said work in the cloud will be what they will benefit most from.
EE’s PR blitz is attempting to put pressure on the telecommunications regulator Ofcom. Ofcom is due to make a decision on whether it will allow EE to release 4G over its existing airwaves, without having to wait for the year end 4G radio spectrum auction. Ofcom was due to make its decision on the matter on April 17, but pushed that back to May 8, then to the end of May. There still has been no firm signal on when a decision will be made from Ofcom.
Ofcom originally seemed to back the proposal (as did the Government), but has since backed down somewhat after a barrage of complaints from rivals.
Since then, Three has threatened the Government with an exit if it doesn’t get dedicated 4G spectrum ringfenced.
The saga drags on, as the UK slips further and further behind.
"In today’s global economy, UK businesses need 4G networks to help them be more productive and compete on the international stage. Half of the countries on the G20 list of the world’s biggest economies already have 4G, leaving British businesses at risk of falling behind rivals,"said Martin Stiven, Vice President of B2B for EE.
