Potential iPhone customers have known for a long time that an iPhone won’t connect to corporate e-mail servers, such as those that connect to a BlackBerry. However, the keen anticipation of the iPhone has caused some to push back on their IT departments anyway, according to the Wall Street Journal on Tuesday.

The argument by the IT departments is that they don’t want additional devices, besides a BlackBerry, connected to their network for security reasons. That would require them to enable IMAP, which they are reluctant to do.

A possibility, in some cases, may be to forward corporate mail to Yahoo e-mail.

It remains to be seen how Apple deals with the emerging issue. "According to a person close to Apple, the company is expected to fight for this market, currently dominated by players like BlackBerry’s RIM, Palm Inc. and, increasingly, Nokia Corp. and Motorola," Jessica Vascellaro and Nick Wingfield wrote. "If Apple comes up with an acceptable strategy for integrating with business software systems, many companies might change their tunes."

Despite possible workarounds or Apple modifications, such as a BlackBerry mimic system, many potential customers are still expressing disappointment. The iPod has worked its way into corporate culture, and those who want to simplify their gadget bag are looking forward to the iPhone. Some users plan to ditch their BlackBerry anyway and make the iPhone work for them.

Despite corporate user desires for simplicity, incompatible technologies are an increasing problem for businesses who themselves want to simplify but are nevertheless buffeted by exciting new technologies from many different companies.

Apple is one of those companies hoping that the attraction and buzz for of their iPhone will break down those corporate barriers. Typically, many businesses are taking a wait-and-see approach.

If the iPhone becomes as popular as many expect, both Apple, RIM, and corporate IT departments may be compelled to work out a solution. That’s a welcome luxury that the Mac has not had in the past.