The latest E.L. Executive Demand Index, which measures advertised positions within a month compared to an historical base period - defined as the average of the last quarter of 1992, the bottom of the previous downturn - shows demand for IT executives has increased for the second month in a row, gaining 26 percent in March. The index now sits just above the March 2002 level.
"The general idea that IT is a favourable place to cut costs [is disappearing]," Montgomery told ZDNet Australia. "There's now a complete change in the way of thinking back to pre-e-economy boom times that investing in IT sensibly is a good thing."
Montgomery said this result is especially promising given the concerns over the war with Iraq and the inertia that accompanies the NSW state election.
While there may be a few downturns in the future, Montgomery expects a steady increase in executive demand over the next six-eight months, and believes the market may double within the year.
Just what we need. Another idiot taking a huge chunk out of the IT budget with a ridiculous salary, only for that same person to tell us in 12 months time that we are being laid off due to budget concerns.
When was the last time you saw an exec ditch his jacket and tie for a screwdriver when the staffing levels were at an all time low?