By Simon Quicke

29 September 2008

The drive to improve technology is now coming from the bottom up, with individuals rather than IT managers pushing for change.

According to research from Dimension Data, demand is growing for technology that will allow flexibility, particularly in the communication technology space.

Resellers pitching unified communications (UC) might find they are pushing at a partially open door, as DiData has revealed that 61% of those with a UC strategy admit the technology has been adopted faster than other IT projects.

In addition, half of those surveyed said mobile e-mail was rolled out due to demand from staff.
 
Rob Stanley, line of business director, Microsoft Solutions, at Dimension Data, said the survey results showed the influence employees have on buying decisions.

"As the workforce becomes more mobile, the requirement for technologies that support flexible and efficient remote working will grow. IT systems such as UC therefore offer businesses an edge in the global war to attract and retain top talent, as well as other benefits including reduced travel costs and improved productivity and collaboration,” he said.

However, there continues to be an issue with trust, with some employers trying to prevent flexibility.

“This has to change. Work patterns are changing so employers have to be prepared for a bit more give and take,” said a source at one vendor, which targets products at the remote working market.