19 October 2011: Uk businesses quick to embrace tablets
One in five businesses (18%) are already using tablets in the workplace, according to a recent survey carried out by Equanet, provider of IT solutions to business. The research found that IT professionals are very clear on the capabilities and business benefits of tablets and this has led to their adoption at a far quicker and higher rate than anticipated. Figures from Equanet show that sales for tablets have risen 1,259% from this time last year.
The value of tablets is felt technically as well as socially. 68% say they most often use their tablets for email management; however, 83% said that the best thing about their tablet was its current 'cool factor'. With 98% believing that owning a tablet allows you to demonstrate that your business is up to date with the latest technology, in the office, the tablet appeal lies in its aesthetic qualities just as much as its productivity benefits.
Speaking to more than 1,200 IT managers of large and mid-sized businesses throughout the UK, those who are currently using tablets at work seem to be already reaping the rewards. Early adopters are quick to praise the convenience and mobility of tablets, with more than one third (38%) saying that mobility was the best feature of tablets; and, the light weight, speed and convenience of the tablet were its best benefits.
Nearly three-quarters (71%) of tablets currently used for business purposes are employee owned, demonstrating that the consumerisation of tablets has infiltrated the workplace. A criticism often levelled against tablets is their high risk of theft, yet with only one fifth (21%) raising any security concerns, early adopters are maximising the potential of using tablets to and from work. Indeed, this positioning of the tablet as a focal point for life and work seems to be its biggest strength.
With 34% saying that they most often use their tablet to work remotely, the convenience and mobility of the tablet is breaking down the boundaries of the office and allowing employers to use the tablet as a nexus for the many strands of life in and outside the workplace.
When asked what the first thing was that came to mind when asked about tablets, 92% said it was the iPad. Only 4% responded with the Samsung Galaxy, Apple's closest rival. The recent announcement that Apple will be launching its iCloud on October 12 reflects the extent to which tablets are becoming norms in the workplace and at home.
