A New Zealand-based research and analysis firm has announced that 2008 could be an even tighter year for the country’s IT industry, causing project costs to rise over the course of the year.

The report, compiled by IDC, stated: “It is time to accept responsibility for counteracting the effects of the continuing New Zealand skill shortage. Whilst government and industry initiative might assist in mitigating the problem in the long run, companies need to address the most salient issues around attracting and retaining high-performing staff autonomously.”

Furthermore, IDC also believes that wages in the IT sector will increase in 2008, making now the ideal time for skilled professionals emigrating to New Zealand.