According to a new survey by Citrix (http://community.citrix.com/pages/viewpage.action?pageId=141690231) -- a company that specializes in centralization, optimization and virtualization-- 84% of businesses polled will support personal iPads. The 494 respondents (so far) have indicated a high adoption rate and anticipation of the iPad as a business tool.

This isn't a cross section of all businesses, but is mostly comprised of Citrix customers and those that go to their web site and have interest enough in the iPad to take a short survey (which you can, too). The high level of support for personal iPads seems to reinforce the notion that the iPad will be the door opener for BYOC at many companies, according to the folks at Citrix.

The fact that IT can safely provide access to company apps, data and virtual desktops without managing the device will make the iPad a game changer for business beyond just the form factor and features, the company says. This device will provide the leading example of how IT can keep control of the data, apps and compliance yet enable their users to maximize their choice and productivity from anywhere.

Perhaps another reason for the IT support is the fact that so many IT pros plan to use the iPad to be more productive themselves. (This is based on another Citrix survey showing that iPad use by mobile IT pros as one of the top business uses of the iPad.) Some of the other finding from the survey so far:

° Eighty percent will purchase and use the iPad for business.

° Eighty-four percent of organizations will support personal iPads; 50% expect their organization to purchase for them.

° The primary app to be used on the iPad are productivity apps with a 87% response rate.

° Ninety percent of respondents will use the iPad for business email, closely followed by the ability to view, edit and create presentations. Nearly 60% of respondents indicated that they will use iPad for online meetings and to access critical business information.


° Largest benefits: 90% indicated increased mobility to work remote, at home, or anywhere, 74% indicated improved productivity and satisfaction.