Half-yearly conference: 2016 results and 2017 outlook

In the 3rd ^quarterof 2016, the pace of activity was positive and accelerating for 42% of companies in the sector: the number of tenders increased for 42% of players, and order books were up for 50%.

Business activity among SMEs is also positive, with 36% reporting growth.

For 2015, the sector is reporting growth of +2.8%, revised upwards following increased growth in technology consulting.

IT spending by CIOs has been unabated since the 3rd ^quarterof 2013. Their priority is digital transformation, as well as the evolution of the infrastructures that will support these projects.

Growth in the sector is driven by SMACS. Growing by +15% in 2016, SMACS will account for 19% of the software and IT services market in 2017, while the rest of the market will only grow by +0.5%.

Business units play a major role in digital investment: digital spending generated by business units is on the rise for 66% of companies surveyed. Operational efficiency, innovation and development are the top priorities for business departments.

In 2017, the sector will post growth of +3%.