The survey results reflect a North American broadcast and media technology market that is at least six months behind the rest of the world in rebounding from the global recession, but trends and expectations do indicate a more rapid improvement going forward.

Released twice a year, the Industry Trends Survey reports the opinions of senior executives in IABM (International Association of Broadcasting Manufacturers) member companies. In the newest version, members were polled about their Q3 performance and outlook for the year ahead. Undertaken six weeks after this year’s IBC, the survey results reflect the general optimism of this year’s show.

Although tempered by continued uncertainty in some regions, confidence in the industry continues to grow – as evidenced by increasing investment in research and development as well as headcount. However, companies continue to be challenged by manufacturing capacity and supply chain problems that frustrate order fulfillment, and customer deferral of orders remains the largest constraint to order growth. Respondents also cited a shortage of skilled technical resources as another barrier to growth and order fulfillment. Executives do, however, feel generally optimistic about the months ahead, with 46 per cent stating that market conditions will significantly improve by spring. The ‘IABM Confidence Ratio’, which was standing at -3 during the recession is at an encouraging +11 in the latest survey.

‘The IABM Industry Trends Survey provides a comprehensive look at the current state of our industry and expectations moving forward,’ says IABM Director General, Peter White. ‘No senior manager on the supply side of broadcasting or media technology should be without this information – it provides key benchmarking data and is an important aid to decision-making.’

More: www.theiabm.org