The study indicates that despite a drop in IT employment around the world, software-related employment figures grew by 4 percent. The Massachusetts-based consulting firm said it expects growth in IT and software spending to continue at a pace roughly three times that of the rest of the economy between now and 2013.

Software and technological innovation can be key factors to helping companies manage the short and long tail of a downturn - driving down costs and improving operations in the short term, while helping fuel recovery in the long term. Microsoft’s partner ecosystem plays a crucial role in creating new business opportunities and jobs.

IDC predicts that between now and 2013, IT and software spending in the 52 countries it surveyed will help create nearly 5.8 million new jobs and 75,000 new IT companies. IDC also estimates that one third of the nearly 75,000 new IT companies that will be created over the next four years will be small, locally owned companies.

IDC projects that 32 percent of the world’s gross domestic product will come from the emerging markets in 2009, and its research suggests this number will increase over the course of the next four years.

Pamela Passman, corporate vice president for Microsoft Global Corporate Affairs, says that software is a significant contributor that drives productivity and innovation in almost every sector of the economy.
 
“Software and technology innovation have a powerful impact on addressing real economic and societal challenges, such as healthcare, education and energy, at the local and global level. Microsoft’s business relies on a vast array of partners to drive this important innovation locally and to extend value to our customers around the world.”

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