Oz SMEs unsure of broadband network gains

Broadband Network (NBN) are not being clearly explained, a new report says, Perth Now reports.

Small and medium companies in the manufacturing, services and construction sectors that invest in new technology have enjoyed an average 16% improvement in productivity because of their outlay, according to a report from the Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) and Deloitte.

The research, carried out for domain name registry AusRegistry, found that it contributed $475 million to the economy and was responsible for the creation 4 300 full-time jobs, Herald Sun says.

Deloitte's report for the Ai Group found that just over half of businesses felt they were "adequately prepared" for the NBN.

Conducted in October and released on 17 January, the report also found that almost 80% of respondents made investments in new technologies over the last three years - to reduce exposure to labour costs, to comply with regulation and to reduce environment impacts - and technology accounted for 21% of respondents' total investment over the period, Smart Company notes.

AiG's Ridout says respondents invested in a variety of new technologies, including in ICT hardware and software, automation, robotics, control equipment and instruments, other machinery and equipment, as well as security and surveillance equipment and systems.