The main reason for implementing IP telephony (IPT) systems is to save money on the cost of calls, according to research by the SAS Group.

According to the survey, 39% of respondents listed this as their main motivation, ahead of upgrading an existing network which was the top choice in 2006.

Over half (57%) of respondents indicated that reducing expenditure in some form was their main reason for implementing IPT, with 11% expecting to save money on video conferencing between offices and a further 7% hoping to minimise network carrier charges.

But the SAS Group is warning that reducing the cost of calls is not on its own does not make a business case for an IP telephony installation.

“While many organisations do see some financial advantage from their IPT systems, this is usually in the form of a reduction in IT support costs or improved staff productivity,” said the company’s chief executive Charles Davis. “These installations are expensive and achieving an ROI is unlikely to happen overnight.”