UK science suffers from lack of IT resources

A lack of IT resources and expertise are preventing new products developed in the UK from getting to market quickly, research shows.

The poll of 300 scientists and technologists found research communities are increasingly dependent on IT to increase productivity, carry out large calculations and manage data.

A spokesman for Silicon Graphics, the company that undertook the study, says UK business needs a strong scientific community to drive it forward.

'If scientific research suffers, this can have a serious effect on the economy as a result. The UK has an outstanding reputation for scientific innovation and we can’t let that suffer,' he said.

One in two respondents to the survey said the computing power now available often means it is easier to use virtual reality than real-life research, because a wider range of results can be provided more quickly.

The report also highlights the lack of co-ordination in resources, leading to poor IT planning and badly built systems.

'Better understanding of the best IT solutions available and expertise to support them is crucial to maintain the leadership for which we are known and respected,' the spokesman said.

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