Postal strikes could result in greater popularity for broadband

The postal strikes instigated by thousands of Royal Mail workers could result in more businesses turning to broadband for alternative services.

According to technology website IT Pro, technology could help provide services while Royal Mail is on strike, despite a lack of understanding about how information is shared online and potential data security concerns.

In addition, new software such as Microsoft's Windows 7 is designed to give consumers peace of mind when it comes to web security, which could encourage more businesses to branch out while the postal service is unavailable.

Benny Har-Even, technology editor at IT Pro, said: "If the Royal Mail is proving unreliable, businesses and companies are going to start looking for alternatives and technology can play a role in that."

Many businesses already rely on fast broadband services to remain competitive, while technology such as VoIP hardware can help reduce communications costs.

In an October 20th statement to the House of Lords outlining attempts to avoid strike action from Royal Mail workers, secretary of state for business, innovation and skills Lord Mandelson said: "You cannot picket the ever-present internet."