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 Mohit Anand, Managing Director, Belkin India, believes that vendors will have to create products that consumers not only need, but also desire
The year 2010 has dawned. It seems like a good time to review the year that went by and plan for times ahead.
In many respects, 2009 has been a watershed year for the Indian IT industry. It was the industry’s first real big challenge post the dotcom bust in the early part of the decade. It forced the entire IT ecosystem to look within, streamline operations and cost structures. The year also saw many innovative technologies come to the fore.
In 2009, vendors understood and emphasized on the importance of channel partners. Partner learning and earning emerged as key priorities for most. It also highlighted the need for channels to augment their own internal organizational strength. At the same time, the year brought about a realization among partners that while topline growth is necessary, a healthy bottomline is crucial for sustenance. Many partners aligned with vendors and brands that are focused on partner profitability and have strong channel policies.
Predictions for 2010
The year 2010 surely looks promising. All macroeconomic indicators are pointing to the fact that the Indian economy is well and truly back on the growth track.
I definitely expect the GDP to grow much faster than 7 percent. For that matter, it is our belief that by Q3 2010, the Indian economy may well be back on the 9 percent growth trajectory.
The Indian market is still immensely under-penetrated when it comes to IT adoption. So, over the next few years, the growth will be driven by local demand and consumption.
Over the last decade, we have seen ownerships of consumer durables and expendables increase exponentially. This will be further accentuated by the expanding economy and the resultant increase in the size of the great Indian middle class.
Trends and challenges
Key trend that will specifically impact business in 2010 is the expected rise in broadband penetration, with the impending introduction of wireless technologies like 3G and WiMax. Wireless connectivity will not only boost notebook and netbook sales, but will also ensure further convergence of telecom and IT in form of smart devices.
However, over the last 12 to 18 months, consumers and the corporate sector have been conservative with their finances. The key challenge in 2010 will be to make sure they spend more.
The onus of getting customers back to the market lies with both, vendors and the channel. Vendors will have to constantly innovate, and keep up with the changing needs and demands of the new-age consumer. We need to bring products that consumers not only need, but also desire, in order to accentuate their digital lifestyle.
Along with partners, IT vendors will need to create the right touch points and present customers with compelling reasons to buy technology products. |