Let us begin analyzing the investment trends for 2004 by reviewing the predictions for IT spending in 2004. What better way to begin a discussion around the near term performance of technology companies than with near term IT spending?
Here is a summary of common themes from the articles listed here. It is by no means inclusive of all the predictions.
IT spending growth returns in 2004 with growth in the 4-8% range
Computer sales growth is higher than software growth
Infrastructure growth is higher than applications growth
Suites continue to be winners in the application battle
Business Intelligence bucks this trend with pure plays beating suite purchases
IT vendors struggle to adapt their marketing strategy toward solving business needs
Pricing pressure continues, as cost controls remain a high priority
IT services does not enjoy spending growth as movement to offshore providers doubles in 2004
Outlook for 2004 App Budgets: Conservative Growth
Forrester Business Technographics
December 1, 2003
Tech Resurrection Will Be Accompanied by Significant Structural Change, According to IDC Predictions 2004
09 Dec 2003
See full report. Registration is required.
Predicts 2004: IT Management and IT Services & Outsourcing
Gartner
24 November 2003 Acrobat
Gartner Sees IT Spending Rebound
November 11, 2003
By Roy Mark
Some IT Purse Strings May Be Loosened Next Year
DECEMBER 01, 2003 ( COMPUTERWORLD )
SIIA Technology Spending Horizons Survey
October 2003 Acrobat