Could cash-starved IT departments turn to VoIP solutions?

VoIP solutions could be an ideal investment for IT divisions looking to make the most of their cash.

New research from the National Computing Centre (NCC) suggests that a number for these departments are suffering as spending on computing technology continues to fall in both the private and public sectors.

Figures from its Benchmark of IT Spending and Strategy 2011 report indicate that the amount being invested in IT has declined to £3,135 per end user, a significant drop when measured against the £3,227 recorded in 2009.

Commenting on the findings, managing director for the NCC Steve Fox claimed that "difficult times" had prompted businesses to cut costs and seek out alternatives.

"The danger with this is that a lack of investment will impede the pace of recovery when the economic climate improves," he warned.

Mr Fox went on to suggest that those procuring IT equipment have an important role to play in enhancing efficiency.

His comments follow advice from Joe Drumgoole, founder of FeedHenry, who recently promoted the cost-cutting advantages offered by cloud computing.