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Story URL: http://networks.silicon.com/mobile/0,39024665,39167022,00.htm

Top execs crave internet on the move
Or become resentful and nervous...

By Tim Ferguson

Published: Tuesday 08 May 2007

Almost nine out of 10 (88 per cent) business travellers feel the need for constant access to their email and corporate IT networks when they are working away from the office.

Two in five mobile workers said being in contact with people back at the office is more important than it was two years ago, and 55 per cent of the 511 business people surveyed have seen the amount of time they spend outside the office increase over the last two years, according to the research commissioned by wi-fi provider BT Openzone.

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The company claims this has led to the emergence of a new group of business people, known as 'Acorns' (always contactable otherwise resentful and nervous). These are typically board level or senior financial and IT executives, South East or London based and who travel more than 10 times per year. These high, and frequent, flyers are usually aged between 35 and 44 years old.

Finance execs have the greatest need to stay in touch with 100 per cent of those questioned stating it is now more important than two years ago, while 81 per cent of IT managers feel the same.

There has also been a significant increase in wi-fi use in hotels, airports and train stations according to BT Openzone.