IT spending increased by 5% in 2011, the worsening economic situation in Western Europe notwithstanding along side uncertain scenario in other regions, according to the new International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Black Book.
The highest growth registered was from the emerging nations, as in the BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China) witnessed another year of over 10% growth.
Drivers for the high IT spending were mobile devices and software, even as the hard disk drive (HDD) shortage impact was felt on PC markets.
IDC projects another year of 5% growth in global IT spending for the year 2012, taking into account constant currency.
The research firm estimates hardware and software spending to increase by 6% (in constant currency), followed by 4% in IT services.
Smartphones experienced a growth rate of 46%, with software and disk storage systems registering 6% each.
IDC expects PC industry to return to positive growth by the end of 2012.
IDC’s Global Technology and Industry Research Organization vice-president Stephen Minton said there are risks to the outlook for 2012, mainly related to macroeconomic weakness in Europe, where IT spending is still weak.
"In a downside scenario, things could get much uglier in Europe and have a ripple effect through other regions. But leading indicators in the U.S. have improved in recent months, and emerging markets show no signs of a slowdown yet," said Minton.
