Buyers who want to purchase switches from manufacturers are likely to find they are out of luck. Reason: a new report finds that many switch manufacturers lack e-commerce capability.

A survey by Venture Development Corp. reveals that few switch manufacturer Web sites offer e-commerce features, site search engines and downloadable data sheets. In the report, Web sites are rated on features provided, product representation and site usability, weighted by OEM demands.

However, the survey also says that by 2005, 40% of OEMs expect to be buying switches on line. "It is vital for a switch vendor to establish a Web presence," says VDC analyst Jacob Millette. "Even a simple Web site with the most basic and succinct information is a must. It is an indisputable fact that more often than not, OEMs are turning to the World Wide Web when looking for suppliers."

Millette adds that OEMs will start to equate the abilities of the switch manufacturer and the quality of its products with the supplier's level of Internet presence and Web site quality.