Perspectives & Strategy

The last half of 2008 has had some unforeseen challenges. Whilst there was a general downturn for some of the economy during the year the banking collapse in September certainly took most people by surprise. Consequently most organisations have been cautious about new developments since that time. SAP reported a 50% reduction in sales in the second half of September. I am sure this is phenomenon shared across much of the industry at that time. Caution has probably been the watchword since regarding all new IT deployments, with many projects being delayed into 2009.

Looking at 2009, I would say the year will be one of watching costs, but corporations will need to start taking advantage of opportunities in their specialist marketplace. Despite the predictions of the newspaper pundits the economy is not is such a bad state and will recover in the early part of 2009. Key projects, that have been on-hold since September will need to proceed.

The US Presidential election had a true Internet impact during 2008, with on-line discussions taking a greater part on the political forum than at any time in the past. Irrespective of the outcome it was clear that the future of politics and the Internet are intertwined, and not just in the USA.

The CIO will be under mounting pressure to provide corporate value and contribute to the bottom line. So how does the IT Leader do this?

In his Perspectives Document for 2009 Peter Giblett looks at the potential development for the forthcomming year.

Take a look! Lets debate how you see the future lining up.