‘IT-BPM firms chalk up gains amid Covid-19 uncertainty’

The uncertainties created by the pandemic have benefited the local information technology and business process management (IT-BPM) sector as it was able to secure additional accounts and clients, according to an industry group.

IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP), in an interview with the BusinessMirror, noted that IT-BPM markets across the globe have made several adjustments to their operations due to the pandemic.

“For example, many enterprises have started to consider multiple aspects of their location to optimize costs, enhance their business continuity plans, and gain access to alternative talent pools,” IBPAP President and CEO Rey E. Untal said.

“This has naturally caused some movements in terms of accounts and clients across certain delivery locations, including India and the Philippines.”

Untal said IBPAP assists investors in putting up operations in the country to secure more customers.

Among the support provided by the group includes human resource development, business development, knowledge sharing and networking opportunities.

“As the enabling association for the [IT-BPM] industry in the Philippines, IBPAP serves as the one-stop information and advocacy gateway for the industry,” he added.

Untal said IBPAP helps in sustaining growth of the sector by “working to ensure an enduring supply of high-quality labor, supporting service innovation, and providing country visibility.”

The IT-BPM is currently operating through a blended work and service model, with 70 percent of employees working from home and 30 percent working on-site, he said.

IBPAP said it has been coordinating with relevant government agencies to ensure that its members are optimizing its workforce without compromising on health and safety.

“With this support, the IT-BPM sector was able to sustain its operations and increase productive capacity,” the group added.

This year, majority or 87 percent of the IT-BPM firms are expecting to book 5 percent to 15 percent growth while 13 percent are anticipating flat growth.

The industry group said in April there were also a “good number” of companies planning to expand their business in the regions within the next 12 to 18 months.

IBPAP said the hybrid working model is here to stay until next year. “Moving forward, this will most likely change depending on company policies, government mandates, and digital capabilities.”

Optimization of existing operations, digital transformation and upskilling of the labor force are the focus of the IT-BPM firms this year, IBPAP added.

Last year, the employment in the industry grew by 1.8 percent to 1.32 million while revenues rose by 1.4 percent to $26.7 billion.

Source: Business Mirror