s has been lower in many western countries than during the 1990’s, and the expanded skill set of those already in the industry is again being recognised as an asset by employers. The end result is that staff retention is moving back up the company priority ladder. The time of the emMaybe not quite as dramatic as that but things definitely seem to be moving in the right direction. Job security has been the mantra for many during the last five years and, just as follows a weak property market, confidence takes time to build. IT professionals however have been using this time to expand their technical skills and to try and increase their value to existing employers. At times business survival strategies have taken precedent and the axe has fallen regardless of individual expertise, but whilst it is still quite common to see announcements of lay-offs these are not hitting the head-lines like they were over recent years. It appears that technology companies are now better placed to deliver products and services from a healthier cost base, and end-user organisations are starting to reinvest more heavily in IT business solutions. In effect the turbulence of the last few years is starting to recede and more stability and growth are appearing over the horizon.

Will this lead to better times ahead for IT professionals?

The outflow of technology graduates from colleges and universities has been lower in many western countries than during the 1990’s, and the expanded skill set of those already in the industry is again being recognised as an asset by employers. The end result is that staff retention is moving back up the company priority ladder. The time of the emp

ing this time to expand their technical skills and to try and increase their value to existing employers. At times business survival strategies have taken precedent and the axe has fallen regardless of individual expertise, but whilst it is still quite common to see announcements of lay-offs these are not hitting the head-lines like they were over recent years. It appears that technology companies are now better placed to deliver products and services from a healthier cost base, and end-user organisations are starting to reinvest more heavily in IT business solutions. In effect the turbulence of the last few years is starting to recede and more stability and growth are appearing over the horizon.

Will this lead to better times ahead for IT professionals?

The outflow of technology graduates from colleges and universities has been lower in many western countries than during the 1990’s, and the expanded skill set of those already in the industry is again being recognised as an asset by employers. The end result is that staff retention is moving back up the company priority ladder. The time of the em

lay-offs these are not hitting the head-lines like they were over recent years. It appears that technology companies are now better placed to deliver products and services from a healthier cost base, and end-user organisations are starting to reinvest more heavily in IT business solutions. In effect the turbulence of the last few years is starting to recede and more stability and growth are appearing over the horizon.

Will this lead to better times ahead for IT professionals?

The outflow of technology graduates from colleges and universities has been lower in many western countries than during the 1990’s, and the expanded skill set of those already in the industry is again being recognised as an asset by employers. The end result is that staff retention is moving back up the company priority ladder. The time of the em

utions. In effect the turbulence of the last few years is starting to recede and more stability and growth are appearing over the horizon.

Will this lead to better times ahead for IT professionals?

The outflow of technology graduates from colleges and universities has been lower in many western countries than during the 1990’s, and the expanded skill set of those already in the industry is again being recognised as an asset by employers. The end result is that staff retention is moving back up the company priority ladder. The time of the em

s has been lower in many western countries than during the 1990’s, and the expanded skill set of those already in the industry is again being recognised as an asset by employers. The end result is that staff retention is moving back up the company priority ladder. The time of the employer holding the high cards is levelling off and salaries are starting to increase as companies seek to retain and attract skilled individuals. Off-shore outsourcing still remains an important aspect but the initial fears seem to be diminishing. Economies work on a supply and demand basis and in many cases the demand factor includes providing the right level of service to your customers. It may be a small world, but when you call your ‘local’ insurance company to confirm they’ve received your letter, it isn’t much help when an agent in another continent tells you they have no way of knowing and “can you check back in a couple of days”. Further than that, IT managers like to have their key skilled workers close to hand as this facilitates easier communication and faster change when business needs demand it. The jury is still out on outsourcing but the verdict is yet to be determined!.

Many internet-based job boards are also announcing an upsurge in IT opportunities, with some quoting the technology sector as accounting for up to 20% of postings. The growing requirements appear to cover all areas of expertise,