New Action... Maybe?

The last two years have been pretty ugly for many folks in the semiconductor industry. The economy in the US continues shaky at best with growing deficits, high unemployment, states on the verge of bankruptcy . . .
As we've continually said, many companies have been very conservative with cash, hiring and new product development. Though many people have been increasingly optimistic about the future, the uncertainty has caused them to not act.

During this period of insecurity and conservatism, there has been a compounding demand for people and investment. Though companies may have a tough time justifying investment based on concrete improvements, they know they can't avoid it forever.

Though it must be treated as anecdotal, we've seen a significant change in activity over the past several weeks. We've noticed a step up in action with recruiting, consulting, investment, due diligence, systems selection, etc. I've talked to a number of folks that are still on the bench that say they've just started getting calls about job opportunities.

Like a New Year's resolution, what better time to make the plunge than the beginning of a new year. It seems like many companies have reached the point of deciding they must do something, even if it's wrong.
We can only hope this continues beyond anecdotal to something resembling the norm. It's been a long dry spell and some rain would sure be a welcome relief.