Survey shows impact of Euro launch

A report released by EDS E Solutions EMEA, the consulting and solutions division of global services leader EDS, has revealed that up to 35 per cent of B2B eBusiness projects across Europe will be delayed by the launch of the euro on January 1, 2002.

Other findings of the "eState State Of The Nations" report show that only 41 per cent of respondents say that the launch will go well, while just over half feel their euro preparations are adequate.

However more alarmingly for customers and customer service, is that nearly half the survey’s respondents claim that euro implementation will put a major stress on their Customer Relationship Management (CRM) capabilities in the short term.

Mike Fitzgerald, CRM Practice Director, EDS E Solutions UK, said: "Although the UK is not adopting the euro in 2002, British organisations which have continental business partners may find their CRM capabilities under pressure - but less so than those partners.”

The report forecasts that B2B eBusiness rollouts will be delayed while efforts focus on getting the euro launch right.

Mr Fitzgerald added: "Like the rest of Europe, the UK may see up to 35 per cent of eBusiness projects held up. However, once the euro is out of the way we expect spend on eBusiness to accelerate in the spring."

The survey completed questioning 320 directors and senior executives of large organisations and government departments in all the major European economies, during November. (MB)