AMBITIOUS executives must become fluent in a new business language if they are to make sense of the fast-moving world of telecommunications. At least, that's according to the results of a nationwide survey commissioned by the Mobile Data Association.

The survey of 800 managers shows that Txt is taking the business world by storm: 80 per cent of executives now converse regularly in text messages; 32 per cent do not really understand the messages they are sent, and 71 per cent of sent messages are reminders of meetings or appointments.

Half use Txt to communicate with members of their team, while a third receive and send messages to customers or clients. But text language frequently baffles even those who are fluent in Txt. One in five managers reported often having to struggle to make any sense of Txt, while one in seven admitted there were some messages they never fully understood.

"While teenagers already have several references for personal messages, the world of work seems to be lagging behind," says communications specialist Dr David Lewis, who analysed the survey findings on behalf of the MDA. "What many people in business would find helpful are some practical tips on speaking Txt."

Think you talk text fluently? Then try your hand at the following, which the survey found baffled even regular users: IMCO - in my considered opinion; ITYFIR - I think you'll find I'm right; 1dafL - wonderful; TIA - thanks in advance; MYOB - mind your own business!; HAND - have a nice day; AAM - as a matter of fact; AFAIC - as far as I'm concerned; O-S-

Britons now send over 42 million texts each day - more than double those sent a year ago. "Text messaging is the most convenient, fast and discreet way for business people to communicate," says Mike Short, MDA chairman. "These results show the steady growth in UK usage is not just restricted to leisure time."

For anyone who is still innocent of the joys of text, log on to www.text.it for tips on text messaging.