Value For Money Broadband More Important Than Download Speed

Broadband internet access is saving time, money and making our everyday lives easier, however it is value for money rather than download speed that is most important when choosing a provider.

A large YouGov survey commissioned by Sky Broadband has looked extensively into the impact of broadband has on our everyday lives. It also looks at the primary considerations and motivations of consumers when selecting broadband providers.

The results highlight the central role that internet access now has on our lives as almost 90% of Brits use the Internet at home every day and spend an average of 2 hours 17 minutes online.

Email is the most popular online activity with keeping up with news and online banking following close behind. 37% shop on the web and watching video clips and visiting social network sites also occupy a lot of online browsing time.

Although consumers express anxiety about their download speeds, it is actually the value for money of the service that is most important when selecting a broadband provider. Selecting a broadband bundle that also includes telephone and TV services is also becoming more attractive.

Once connected, reliability and quality of connection is the single most important factor in driving customers satisfaction. Value for money, consistency of speed, and unlimited downloads then followed.

Commenting on the findings of this survey, Delia Bushell, Sky’s Director of Broadband and Telephony, said:

“Consumers are getting more from their broadband than ever. It’s all too easy to forget about the way broadband has transformed our lives, and, as the research shows, it has made our lives easier, cheaper and more fulfilling. Broadband is no longer a ‘nice-to-have’ – it’s a vital part of modern day life.

“When deciding on which broadband service to choose, consumers are making decisions based on a wide range of factors. What this research has done is to cut through the noise around broadband speeds and listen to what the majority of broadband users say about what matters to them.”

“In short, people want broadband that works, transparency over what they are getting, and a price that suits their pocket.”