Internet access and that too at broadband speed appears to be turning out to be a basic necessity for most of the human beings, even in times of recession suggests a new research by Alcatel-Lucent’s market Advantage Program (MAP) jointly conducted with market research firm Penn Schoen & Betland Associates and Ipsos MediaCT.

Consumers, 84 % of them, consider broadband as an essential network service and to have access to the service, the consumers are even ready to cut expenditure on other needs. In fact consumers are even ready to upgrade their broadband packages for a better speed.

“This clearly shows that people across the world rely on broadband services as a central part of their social and economic lives,” said Tim Krause, Chief Marketing Officer for Alcatel-Lucent. “As the world looks at ways to address the twin challenges of economic growth and climate change, our research shows that broadband and the digital economy must absolutely be at the top of decision making agendas.” 

As per the study, a desire to reduce the cost and travel time associated with commuting, coupled with a preference for greener alternatives are the key factors driving the strong consumer preference for broadband services. The need for broadband services is felt for severe in developed economies where consumers are more dependent on the Web as an information source, business tool, social network and entertainment venue.

The research also covers an interesting aspect related to attitude of consumers towards broadband services. It says the attitude cuts across regions and socio-economic strata though the attitude varies differently in a developed country when compared to a developing economy.