International Data Corporation (IDC) and Microsoft finding of global research reveal that the information technology (IT) industry will create 5.8 million new jobs and more than 75,000 new businesses over next four years. The expected growth rate for IT employment of 3% a year is more than three times the rate of growth of total employment and a strong indicator that investing in IT’ll contribute to economic recovery and growth. “In this fundamental economic reset, innovative technologies will play a vital role in driving productivity gains and enabling the creation of new local businesses and highly skilled jobs that fuel economic recovery and support sustainable economic growth,” said Steve Ballmer. “Countries that foster innovation and invest in infrastructure, education and skills development for their citizens will have a major competitive advantage in the global marketplace.” “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,” says Pamela Passman.