Despite Downturn, E-Business Spending Important

Compiled ByPeter Strozniak Despite an economic downturn, a survey of executives shows they plan to maintain or increase e-business investments in supply-chain management, business-to-business marketplaces, and sales this year. Executives cited reducing costs, improving customer relations, and increasing company revenues as the primary drivers for not cutting e-business investments, according to Boston-based AMR Research Inc., which interviewed 100 chief information officers from large companies with $500 million in annual revenue in the manufacturing, services, retail, and utilities industries. The AMR survey found that 94% of executives plan to maintain or increase spending on B2B marketplaces, and more than 80% will maintain or increase budgets for supply-chain and customer-management initiatives. The survey also found that 29% of executives will decrease spending on technology for internal functions such as human resources, accounting, and administrative operations. "Our survey shows e-business and its supporting technology are too important to let an economic downturn derail current plans," says Tony Friscia, AMR president and CEO. "Even in a down economy, e-business is not a spectator sport." For additional information about this survey log on to: AMR Research Inc..