VoIP helped businesses to function in the snow

Companies which invested in VoIP networks were able to carry on functioning effectively during the recent disturbance of the heavy snowfall, according to a leading organisation.

The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) has noted that despite the recent travel difficulties, many VoIP-enabled businesses were able to carry on as usual.

Rebecca Clake, CIPD organisation and resourcing adviser, said this was predominantly because the technology enabled greater home-working opportunities for employees.

"With advances in technology, more and more people are able to work from home - at least to some degree," she explained.

"Companies that have put in place the technology and management practices to allow their people to work flexibly in normal times can reap the rewards today, as thousands of people log on from their living rooms and bedrooms to keep the knowledge economy ticking over."

According to a recent report on BBC News, the snowy weather placed an increased strain on broadband and communications networks in the UK.