IT staffing: 2010 outlook and beyond

Posted by: Alison Citti

On Wednesday, I listened to “IT Staffing: 2010 Outlook and Beyond,” an insightful Webinar hosted by Staffing Industry Analysts and Dice. The full presentation is available online, but I wanted to share some of the highlights with you.

Economic/Industry Snapshot:

• Even with unemployment over 10 percent, temp employment showed considerable growth in October. In fact, the 30,000+ gain experienced in this month represents the biggest gain in two years, and the first time we’ve experienced positive growth since 2007.
• Strong tech markets (such as Silicon Valley, NYC, etc.) have more IT jobs available today than a year ago.
• Mid-level markets (such as Charlotte and Dallas) have shown a 35-40 percent increase in IT jobs from a year ago.
• Contract IT positions are up 40 percent, accounting for half of all jobs posted.

Trends:

• IT buyers estimate 9 percent total expense savings due to the use of contingent workers.
• The BLS identifies Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services as targeted industries for growth in IT employment.
• CIOs’ top three priorities are improving processes, delivering better customer support, and cutting costs.
• Washington, D.C. is the new Silicon Valley. D.C. is the largest and fastest growing IT employment market.

Forecast:

• IT staffing is predicted to grow 8 percent in 2010.
• A $10 billion year over year increase in IT Services spending is forecasted now through 2013.
• VMS adoption is projected to hit 81 percent by 2011.