Technology & communications

The technology and communications sector comprises IT hardware, IT software and IT consultancy, but also telecom, printing organisations, advertisement agencies and publishing companies.

The IT hardware manufacturing sector has all but disappeared from the Netherlands and has been outsourced to Southeast Asia, with the exception of R&D related prototype runs and assembly. There is still significant investment in high value R&D.

The Amsterdam region is home to many IT software multinationals. Outsourcing and offshoring of IT services has also increased and organisations are reconsidering their choices between standard and customised solutions. For publishers and related areas the increasing popularity of the internet plays a vital role, especially for young readers.

The sector is characterised by a shortage of certain skills, as there not enough undergraduate and postgraduate newcomers.