Communication today is increasingly reliant on the manipulation of optical signals. Where previously electronic circuits manipulated such signals, photonic circuits now take their place. With photonic technology, devices are no longer limited only to the silicon wafer and often require broader functionality than can be offered on this traditional platform. This report discusses the use of the use of polymers instead of, and in conjunction with, traditional platforms such as indium phosphide and ferroelectric ceramic lithium niobate. Critical comparisons are made between use of polymers and alternative materials and it is shown that the use of no one material system dominates the field. This review report gives an overview of all the elements of optical transmission and switching systems that are used in telecommunications and is a fully interdisciplinary account of materials and device design issues. There are very few experts in this field, so there are very few up-to-date accounts available. This review report will be of interest to anyone involved in the telecommunications industry and IT hardware specialists with an interest in telecommunications. Library database (formerly known as Rapra Abstracts). These papers are referenced in the report and are also indexed to allow the reader to search for information on specific topics.