Some of the latest IT and communications technology is becoming increasingly popular as businesses around the country look to leverage the benefits of having home-based workers, according to a new report.

Research commissioned by ZDnet.co.uk and carried out by Rhetorik suggests that many UK companies are keen to use technologies such as mobile voice over IP telephony in order to establish a more flexible workforce.

In fact, the recent study concludes that with relatively low use of converged communication technologies in the UK at present, there is likely to be "strong growth" in the coming months and years.

A statement from Rhetorik researchers explained: "Key drivers in the uptake of converged mobile communications are to provide improved business efficiencies, to facilitate overall cost savings and to offer an improved customer service.

"Other drivers of importance are the provision of better communications to both customers and suppliers, and the ability to facilitate home working for staff."

A deal recently agreed with Siemens and the Global Crossing company looks set to see employees of the British government equipped with the tools and systems they need to work from home or on the move.