Demand for business solutions in the Middle East continues to expand, with many of the region’s leading enterprises poised to increase their IT investments over the next 12 months in a market with a predicted value of $158 million in 2004, according to research from IDC.
However, there is also evidence of rising demand for more seamless implementation, higher levels of customer service and stronger local support from technology vendors. In a market dominated by a handful of major global technology companies, customers are increasingly expecting high levels of consulting and support services with their business solutions.
The research suggests that while leading companies continue to show strong interest in the technology supporting enterprise resource planning (ERP) and customer relationship management (CRM) solutions, other factors, such as long-term support and standard of service, are becoming the major influences in their decision to partner with a particular vendor.
Examining the current market demand in the region, IDC analysts found that “customers tend to opt for solutions offered by vendors that exhibit a ‘local commitment’ to the region, also assuring them of a continued support and services infrastructure.”
“Thanks primarily to a surge in demand for ERP applications in the MENA markets, a select few international vendors have established a regional presence, thus highlighting their commitment to the region,” states regional director, IDC Middle East and North Africa, Jyoti Lalchandani.
Lalchandani adds that, “these companies have performed particularly well over the past two years, also signifying the requirements of customers - both in the enterprise and SME segments - for direct representation in the region, particularly for service-related issues.” — (menareport.com)
© 2003 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
