Channel gets booming voice

VARs to benefit from $260m boom in UK voice market

The channel is set to benefit from a $260m boom in the UK voice solutions market, according to research by Datamonitor.

The analyst's report claimed the uptake of automated natural speech systems, such as those used for flight booking and telephone banking, is booming in EMEA and Asia-Pacific.

By 2008, the market value could rise from $90m to $260m. Datamonitor identified the UK as the area showing the strongest penetration rates in EMEA.

The technology has arisen from Dual Tone Multi Frequency systems. According to the research, many vendors recognise its potential for building long-term relationships with customers and reducing costs.

"Distributors and resellers are doing very well out of this. Most large organisations have extensive agreements for it," said Peter Ryan, analyst at Datamonitor.

David du Toit, solutions director at systems integrator Datapoint, said: "The figures seem absolutely fair. It's one of the highest growing areas in the market. It's a cost saver and has many business benefits."

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