The VAR Guy

A large number of corporations seem ready to show Windows 7 some love. But here’s the twist: Many of those same corporations say they’ve increased spending with Apple, according to a recent Goldman Sachs survey of Fortune 1000 IT executives. Here are some quick details.

It happened again: Another IT-related article declaring a specific technology industry segment “recession proof.” That’s a dangerous, misleading claim, The VAR Guy believes. Here’s why.

When you’re talking about the US economy, don’t use the word “recession.” Instead, stick with “shrinkage.” That seems to be the safest approach. A case in point: Fed Research Chairman Ben Bernanke said the US economy may shrink during the first half of this year, but he didn’t mention the “R” word.

Sometimes good isn’t good enough. Profits are up at Oracle. And so are software sales. But the improvements fell short of Wall Street’s expectations, which has The VAR Guy worried. He turned off his laptop to escape from depressing online chatter — only to find the latest InformationWeek on his kitchen table. The cover story: “Recession and You.” Ouch.

CIOs have already been betrayed by the economy. Next, will they face financial mutiny by their own boardrooms? Instead of waiting to find out, now is the time for smart CIOs and their trusted IT partners to reduce costs before the big budget cuts happen. Here are seven ways for CIOs to get started.

There is no secret sauce to help you thrive in uncertain economic times. But IT professionals can follow nine simple and effective principles — which will serve you well regardless of the economy around you.