The IT industry was forced into a semblance of maturity as a result, finally shedding the last of its dot-com boom glamour. Companies that actually made it through the downturn intact were forced to shift from tactical to strategic thinking, and everything became about the reality of the bottom line. Budget belts were tightened, ROI won buzzword bingo and technology managers found themselves accountable for budgets and answerable to the board. IT professionals sharpened their skills and dusted off their resumes in preparation for the downsizing blitz that hit the industry, and teams everywhere were forced to do more with less.
After a year such as this one, the holiday season beckons as a time for relaxation and reflection. With the Christmas season on the horizon, now is our chance to lay down the overworked, underpaid burden of our work existence for a few days at least, and indulge in food, festivities and serious retail therapy.
In the spirit of giving, ZDNet Australia has once again compiled a special festive treat for our readers. Designed to remind us all that the holiday season is a time for reflection of the year that was, our end of year special focuses on the turbulent, yet exciting, events of 2002.
Not only have we recapped the key technology news stories that made headlines this year, we've also previewed and reviewed the online retail offerings available to Australian consumers during this peak shopping period. Anyone who's keen to pick up a last minute technology gift will benefit from our IT product special , in which we've selected the cream of the crop from our IT reviews during the past year.
We've also included fraud alerts and warnings to ensure your online Christmas shopping is a safe and effective experience.
For our corporate readers, we've examined the holiday wishlists of Australia's IT professionals, who have outlined their technology must-haves for Christmas and beyond.
Overall, we have presented a concise, comprehensive round-up of online news and reviews for the holiday season, for your reference.
ZDNet Australia wishes you a safe and happy holiday. We look forward to having you on board in 2003 as we come back bigger and better than ever.
ACCC puts e-commerce frauds on notice over Xmas
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has issued a warning to e-commerce sites involved in unscrupulous practices and warned consumers to be vigilant during the December/January "silly season".
Aust TIO issues Xmas mobile phone warning
The Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman of Australia has recently issued a warning to parents who are considering buying a phone or computer for their children this Christmas, suggesting they consider the ongoing costs of such presents.
What's on your Christmas wishlist?
The Christmas decorations are up around the office, and the flashing fairy lights are almost sending you over the edge. But, if the sky was the limit, what would be on your tech Christmas list? ZDNet Australia asks IT managers what they would like for Christmas.
'Tis the season to be spending ... online
'Tis the season to be spending, and these days more and more people are choosing to avoid the tacky tinsel and Christmas carol muzak by hitting the Internet to buy presents for their nearest and dearest. With a reported 22 percent increase in online spending, what will Christmas bring for e-tailers worldwide?
ZDNet's twelve days of Christmas shopping
Looking for a tech gift for that special someone? Check out the best of ZDNet's Reviews over the last calendar year for some inspiration.
