Global study finds IT has grown in importance

Mary Campbell-Cree, 3 December 2009

Accenture's Global Survey on IT Investments Reveals Anticipated Spending Boosts in 2010

A majority (72 percent) of business and information technology (IT) executives say their organisations place greater value on the IT function today than they did before the economic crisis. What's more, they view IT as an important part of their economic recovery efforts.

Consequently, executives expect technology spending to increase in their organisation either selectively (47 percent) or across the board (10 percent) in the next 12 months. Further non-IT executives appear even more bullish than those directly responsible for IT, as 61 percent anticipate technology spending boosts.

The survey of more than 550 executives, in the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, France, Spain and Italy, highlights that cost savings and control remain a key driver when it comes to IT investment decisions. The respondents identified three measures as most effective in reducing the cost of implementing IT projects: Ensuring the stability and business relevance of project requirements; the replacement or rationalisation of existing systems; and movement to open platforms.

The need to invest in technology notwithstanding, the study also shows that companies will keep a close eye on the returns delivered by IT. Accordingly, the vast majority (81 percent) of executives across all geographies say they are under increased pressure to deliver projects that incorporate more flexibility than was previously required.

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