Jim Oliver, general manager
Las Plant Ltd Inverness

"We converted to broadband and the benefits have been considerable. Dealings with suppliers are more efficient, internal communications are much better, and it's delivering cost savings of £1,600 a quarter. I'd call the decision to convert a 'no brainer'. But you judge for yourself!"

"At Las Plant we've seen immediate and dramatic cost savings. But it's about more than that. We deal with big international suppliers such as Kubota, Honda and Stihl in Germany. And with broadband it's easier for us to use the dedicated services they offer to check stock or order parts. It has given us a platform to make real use of these services and then pass the benefits on to our customers."

"I'd encourage every business to get a full review done of their telecoms system then compare it with what broadband offers and judge the potential benefits for themselves."

Hylda Marsh, owner-manager
Island Holiday Cottages Isle of Mull

"We've seen an increase in business even in the short time we've had broadband. Bookings are up. The always-on link, means we respond to email enquiries much quicker, and because the telephone line is now freed up people who phone us can always get through. It has been great. Really good."

"The local broadband pilot has been great. It has freed-up the telephone line, which is essential for any home-based business like ours. And we can talk with potential clients in real-time via email, which means we give a much better service. The speed also means I'm able to work much quicker. We use a lot of photos on our website and loading these is now almost instant. That's a real plus."

"But the best thing is that it has improved our business. For customers who phone, it has meant we are always here, for customers who email us, it has meant we are always on."