Synaxon Study: IT Service Costs Exceed 100 Euro Mark

IT service costs in Germany have reached a new high. The IT Service Price Index 2024 from Synaxon Academy reveals the current trends, regional differences and the influence of the shortage of skilled workers.

A significant financial threshold was recently crossed in the IT sector: The average hourly rate for standard IT services has broken the 100 euro barrier for the first time. According to the latest survey by the Synaxon association, the price is now 100.44 euros net. This corresponds to an increase of 3.7 percent compared to the previous year.

Detailed insights

However, Synaxon’s latest analysis not only reveals the average increase in IT service costs. It also provides detailed insights into the specific hourly rates for different types of IT services:

• Standard IT services: The average hourly rate for basic IT services has now exceeded the €100 mark and stands at €100.44 net. This shows that a significant price level has now been reached even for standard services in the IT sector.
• Complex network and specialized IT solutions: For more sophisticated and specialized IT services, such as complex network solutions or specific IT projects, hourly rates increase significantly. An average value of EUR 111.14 per hour is estimated here, reflecting the increased requirements and the expertise needed in these areas.
• 3rd level support services: Even more specific and demanding is 3rd level support, which deals with complex problem solving and technical advice at the highest level. An average of EUR 114.57 per hour is charged for this, which underlines the expertise and often critical role of these services.
• Programming services: The development of software or individual applications requires a high level of expertise and experience. The average hourly rate for programming services is EUR 119.92, which reflects the value of this specialized work.
• Advisory and consulting services: The hourly rate is even higher in the consulting and advisory sector, where strategic insights, planning and highly specialized knowledge are required. Companies have to budget an average of 126.94 euros per hour for such services, which underlines the importance and influence of these services on business success.

Regional price differences

The study, which is based on 750 participants from Germany and Austria, also reveals significant regional price differences. In Munich, for example, an average of 126.30 euros per hour is charged for IT services, while in the eastern regions of Germany the hourly rate is only 82.51 euros. Company size also plays a role: smaller service providers without employees charge 81.26 euros, whereas larger companies with over 50 employees charge an average of 116.93 euros.

Skills shortage in IT

Another key issue is the shortage of skilled workers in IT, which almost 60% of respondents see as the dominant problem. Despite advances in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) and new laws on the immigration of skilled workers, a permanent solution remains out of reach. However, AI offers relief through automation and allows IT departments to focus on priority tasks that require critical thinking.

Recommendations for action

Arnulf Koch from K&K Software emphasizes the importance of deep specialization for IT service providers in order to survive against AI and large competitors. The use of AI, such as in their ticket system and marketing with ChatGPT, shows the potential of automated customer support.

The Managed Service Provider (MSP) industry is also experiencing growth, driven by the need for external support due to the skills shortage. Migration to the cloud and outsourcing offer new business opportunities. Markus Rex from Synaxon sees automation as a major challenge, but advises the bold use of AI in all areas, from customer communication to marketing and sales.

In summary, the Synaxon Price Index 2024 reflects the dynamic changes in the IT industry, with rising service costs, regional differences and the inevitable influence of AI. These developments require IT service providers to continuously adapt and specialize in order to survive in an increasingly competitive environment.

Source: IT-Business