Technology moves so fast that even a few short years will see a tremendous change in how and when enterprises use certain tools for networking and communications. This poses an interesting challenge for IT professionals, as they have to invest in technology that can rapidly adapt to the changes.

Network infrastructure provider CommScope took a look at the evolution of the enterprise network, and it shows that cable, data speeds, and wireless influence have all come a long way in just a short amount of time.

According to the company’s infographic, data speeds alone in 2002 were comparable to a garden snail, whereas today’s speeds can be compared to a 2014 Ferrari. The overall speed increase has made us more productive, more efficient and better at what we do on a daily basis.

The entire scope of enterprise communications has largely been impacted by wireless voice. Take for example CommScope’s numbers: in 2005, a mere 5 percent of enterprise wireless networks supported voice calls through this medium whereas 43 percent of calls in 2013 originated on a mobile phone.

This in turn has led participants to see mobile as a game changer in the enterprise. 44 percent of those surveyed feel that enterprise mobility, as well as cloud services, will be a driving force behind what moves and shakes the enterprise communications space.

With the recent explosion of mobile devices, communication has never been easier. With traditional computers, instant reach-ability was not always possible.  Mobile devices have eliminated this gap, making real-time communications a necessity for most businesses in a fast-paced world.

In addition, 32 percent of respondents indicated that 40GbE and 100GbE would have a significant impact on their operations whereas 24 percent cite energy and green initiatives as game changers over the next 5 years.

We are witnessing a breathtaking evolution of new forms of digital communication and information exchange. More than witnessing, we are facilitating it through mobile and data networks. The evolution of the enterprise is on the fast track to more efficient, more practical forms of communication and connectivity.