Worldwide government IT spending is forecast to total $483 billion in 2021, an increase of 5.1% from 2020, according to the latest forecast by Gartner. Especially government spending on devices and software will see record highest increases year-over-year.
“Government organizations continue to be challenged with the appropriate level of interventions to respond and recover from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Irma Fabular, senior research director at Gartner. “Public health and safety measures, including vaccinating citizens are of paramount concern, which necessitate governments to continue to accelerate their digital transformation journey.”
Innovative use of technology
Three segments are on pace to exceed the overall market growth in 2021. The software segment, which includes application, infrastructure, and vertical-specific software, will experience the strongest growth in 2021. “Governments are innovating at a quicker pace by adopting commercially available technology solutions for operational and mission critical needs,” said Ms Fabular. “We are seeing innovative use of technology and data to control and respond to the pandemic, as well as provide financial and humanitarian assistance.”
Hyperconnected public services
As government organisations continue to embrace remote work and hyperconnected public services, spending on devices is expected to grow 5.6% in 2021, up from 1.6% growth in 2020. “The COVID-19 pandemic exposed weaknesses in the ability of government organisations to quickly respond, scale and secure essential services,” said Ms Fabular. “Lessons learned from the responses by government organisations provide the impetus to increase resiliency and build for a stronger future for its citizens and businesses.”
In 2021, government budgets will continue to address recovery and growth needs of communities and businesses. In addition, investments to address digital equity and access to remote government services will be prioritised.
