Abstract:

This paper explores how PC vending is changing and adapting to the challenges of new technologies and attitudes. Business and consumer desktop PC markets are the topic of investigation. These markets are particularly suitable for investigation as they embody many of the new technologies and are the scene of rapid growth and innovation (in both product and marketing). The principle source of data is IntelliTrack IQTM, a global IT tracking survey. This paper draws heavily on the business and consumer desktop PC modules. Interviews are conducted with Purchase Influencers those who have bought or influenced the purchase of a desktop PC in the past 12 months or who plan to do so in the next 12 months. Data are collected monthly and normally reported on a quarterly basis. In the paper the data are aggregated for the whole of 1999 to provide a robust picture. The business data comprises France, Germany, Japan, United Kingdom, and United States. The consumer data comprises France, Germany, United Kingdom, and United States.