European companies remain sceptical about the value of the Internet, according to a study by the International Data Group. ‘The Internet’s Impact on Corporate IT Buying’ surveyed technology influencers and purchasers at 1,900 companies mostly in the UK, Germany, France. IDG reports that 39% of British, 20% of German and 13% of French companies responding currently use the Internet. In the next twelve months, an additional 20%, 25% and 15%, respectively, plan to begin using it. However, only about a third of respondents believe that the Internet can provide competitive advantage, with between a third and a half seeing the Internet as more useful for the marketing of products and services.