State of IT

    In order to be successful in the modern IT environment, we must consider the realities and driving forces of all people involved along with the current trends in technology. The important players are the companies who are hiring, the employees who are looking for a job and the placement firms trying to facilitate the relationship. Each party is motivated by different concerns and risks. Companies are concerned with repeatable processes and strategy, along with cost and ownership. In comparison, potential employees are concerned with compensation, stability, their connection with the manager, location, technologies and the culture. Finally, placement firms are motivated by the ability to control their destiny, the change and variety, and compensation. These dynamics have created the current state of IT. 

    From my experience, including the past three years leading my IT consulting and services company, JPerzel & Associates, I believe each year can be characterized by the economy's perception of the IT marketplace. Below you will find a chart with a synopsis of each year and my predictions of the future.

    Currently, we are three years into an up-cycle generated by the pent up demand of the early 2000's. Permanent jobs are plentiful with employers encouraging contractors to convert. The movement of jobs offshore still exists but has stabilized. Considering the large amount of movement, now is an exciting time to make a move in the IT market. Whether this is moving from one perm job to another or making the transition from perm to consultant. 

    The future holds several unknowns including the extended impact of baby boomers, and the effect of an election year. I believe medium-sized staffing firms will consolidate and sell out as the economy tightens. Here at JPerzel & Associates, we have been through a down cycle and are equipped to handle a changing economy. Even with these concerns, the market will only get better for local IT resources, as long as you provide a value-added skill.