Automated email response facilities save a huge amount of time and effort. In 1999 the highest penetration rates were in the US and Ireland, where 29% of companies with eCommerce facilities had such software. By the end of this year, the situation will have changed significantly. Ireland will still be ahead, but with 72% penetration. There are obvious differences in the speed of take-up between different sectors, with the retail banking and outsourcing sectors leading the way.
* The UK had 26% penetration in 1999 and by 2001 will be close behind Ireland at 71%
* Sweden also had 26% penetration and will be the third highest in 2001 at 69%
* The US will be lagging behind, with a penetration rate of 59% in 2001