As readers of this blog are well aware, the IT channel is in the midst of a major operational shift. The days of desktop computers and physical server rooms are on the way out as the cloud and mobile devices continue to grow in popularity. It is known as the post-PC era and the latest sales numbers show that it is here in a big way.
According to a report released last week by IDC, worldwide PC shipments in the first quarter of 2013 dropped 13.9 percent when compared to the same time frame last year. This is the worst year-to-year drop the company has recorded since it started keeping track in 1994. It is also nearly double the 7.7 percent drop that was projected.
The United States' market experienced a 12.7 percent year-on-year fall, with a drop of 18.3 percent compared to the fourth quarter of 2012. On top of that, total volume fell to 14.2 million, which is the lowest level since the first quarter of 2006.
"The industry is going through a critical crossroads, and strategic choices will have to be made as to how to compete with the proliferation of alternative devices and remain relevant to the consumer," IDC Research Director David Daoud said in a press release. "Vendors will have to revisit their organizational structures and go to market strategies, as well as their supply chain, distribution and product portfolios in the face of shrinking demand and looming consolidation."
These numbers show that the decline of the PC is real and businesses and consumers need to be ready for it. Without the right personnel and resources in place, a company could suddenly find itself using outdated technology as the competition pulls away. VARs and MSPs that have partnered with VAR Staffing can ensure they have the impactful talent to help organizations make the transition.
