Businesses turn to texting

Text messaging is fast becoming a fundamental business tool, with 60% of firms using it on a daily basis, according to a survey by the Mobile Data Association (MDA).

Around 80% of businesses said that they would use text messaging instead of e-mail if they were away from their PC. Many even preferred to text, even if they could use e-mail.

In the future, businesses are planning to use text messaging for getting in touch with customers and running promotional campaigns.

'Vital role'

Mike Short, Chairman of the Mobile Data Association, said text messaging in the business community will inevitably rise.

"As Britain becomes a mobile workforce, customers and employees will increasingly demand more and more information at their fingertips," he said.

"The survey demonstrates that businesses understand that text messaging can play a vital role in the working practices of any organisation and should not be ignored as a useful business tool," he added.

Mobile banking

Already well-known brands are using text messaging. UK bank First Direct says its text message banking has proved "phenomenally successful".

One in five of its customers now uses the service.

It offers statements and balances via SMS and alerts when customers come close to their overdraft, when salaries are paid into accounts and when large amounts are debited.

High street store Argos has also jumped on the text messaging bandwagon, launching a Text and Take Home service in October.

The service allows users to check availability and price via mobile phone and be sent a reservation number for their goods via text message.

Text messaging is also increasingly being used by unscrupulous firms out to make a quick buck.

Scams, often targeted at youngsters, encourage users to phone premium phone numbers without making the call charges clear.

In the UK alone, the MDA estimates that 50 million text messages are sent every day.