Companies across the UK will be able to introduce "smarter ways of working" when fibre optic cable broadband services become widely available, it has been claimed.

According to Nigel Stagg, managing director of BT's business division, access to high-speed broadband services will help firms to embrace new technologies such as video conferencing systems.

In a column for Fresh Business Thinking, he added that it will also allow more companies to boost staff productivity and retention by giving employees the chance to work outside of the office.

"Faster speeds will also have specific advantages for sectors that rely heavily on sharing data," he explained.

"Architects, for example, might use the increased capacity to discuss designs by video link between their offices."

Mr Stagg's comments have come after Orange announced it is holding a debate on how technological developments such as improved broadband connectivity will affect working practices across the UK.

The event, which will be chaired by the BBC's Evan Davis, is being held in London on February 3rd.