Business leaders see IT investment as key to growth in 2010

Business executives see IT as an integral part of their business plan for the coming year, according to a new survey published by analyst firm Gartner today.

Of those senior business executives surveyed, 43 percent said they would be increasing IT spending while 45 percent said they will be keeping it at the same level. Furthermore, nearly two-thirds said they see IT as having a key role in post-recession strategies.

Only 13 percent said they would be cutting what they spend on IT in 2010.

Gartner contacted 190 senior business executive, including 81 chief executives, from UK and US firms with annual revenues of more than US$1bn ($1.09m).

Mark Raskino, vice president and Gartner fellow, said the figures underlined that the IT industry had reason for cautious optimism and, although companies faced a difficult period of growth, IT personnel should be secure in their position.

"IT managers and chief information officers should be ready to talk up the opportunities IT can offer and be confident that chief executives will listen and understand the benefits they offer for future revenue and cost advantages," he said.

Raskino did note, however, that while the figures were positive it was important they were not overstated.

"We're not saying vast amounts of money will be spent on IT in 2010 but it does look like, all things considered, the industry will be a strong position in the coming year as businesses remain aware of the efficiencies technology can bring," he added.