Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) telephony services mean that firms can "massively boost productivity".

That's according to the Communications Management Association (CMA), which noted that VoIP means you can answer calls wherever you are in the world and can enhance customer service.

The association released a report last year which found that communications and networks were vital for business, and that VoIP is one of the most important SME IT services available.

CMA forum leader David Brunnen commented: "There are many benefits, including convenience and potential cost savings, but the three most significant for smaller enterprises are integration, mobility and quality.

"VoIP functionality is far easier to integrate with other computer applications - for example in customer service systems.

"With your VoIP telephony capability embedded in your computer or lap-top you also get a new sort of mobility - the freedom to operate from anywhere that is broadband enabled in exactly the same way as you would in a conventional office."

Research firm Datamonitor found that the UK is lagging behind the US and the rest of Europe in terms of VoIP take-up, however.

According to recent survey by Connect, the two biggest IT headaches for businesses were 'everyday hassles with IT' (37 per cent) and 'security concerns' (32 per cent)