Press releases

Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock, January 2026 – Continuous change is part of everyday business in the IT industry. Currently, however, technological, regulatory, and organizational changes are accelerating particularly rapidly. The migration to Windows 11, the increasing use of artificial intelligence, new regulations such as NIS-2, and rising IT security requirements are noticeably increasing the pressure on IT service providers. However, this development does not necessarily lead to significant price increases.

„Despite growing challenges, price developments have been surprisingly moderate – although not in all areas,“ says Friedrich Pollert, Head of the SYNAXON Academy, assessing the key findings of the 2026 IT Service Price Index (see pp. 10–11, Figure 1). The fact that the collected data is readily comparable with previous years is also evident in the analysis of customer segments, as the composition and structure of the participating companies largely correspond to those of the last edition (pp. 8–9, Figure 2). „Nevertheless, the new 2026 IT Service Price Index, in which more than 700 system houses participated, again reveals some very exciting developments – especially in the field of artificial intelligence,“ Pollert adds.

Artificial intelligence has arrived – also in the service portfolio of many system houses.

After the so-called "chief physician treatment", i.e., consultation and service by the managing director, the new consulting service in the field of artificial intelligence has entered the price comparison as the second most expensive hourly rate – even ahead of data protection or classic IT security consulting services (p. 11, graphic 3). 

This trend aligns with the findings regarding the expected impact of AI on business models (p. 30, Figure 4). While in 2023, 41.7 percent of participants assumed that AI would have no impact on their business model, this figure dropped to only 17.3 percent in 2025. At the same time, the smaller the company, the less impact is currently perceived to have. Conversely, the larger the company, the more regularly AI tools are already being used (p. 32, Figure 5). 

„AI is a given. Its potential is no longer something to be found on the horizon when it can be experienced daily. The game has long since changed – now system integrators are challenged to keep up,“ says Jonathan Seifert, Customer Relationship Manager at the SYNAXON Academy, who founded the AI focus group for SYNAXON partners three years ago and has been successfully leading it ever since (p. 31).

Stefan Schwarz, SYNAXON partner, managing director of PC-Mentor and AI consultant (TÜV), also advocates for the combined use of AI and automation (p. 34): „In 12 to 24 months, we won’t be talking about AI projects anymore, but about normal operations. Those who implement this layer now will build a resilient business. Those who wait will only exacerbate their problems. Ultimately, it’s not about whether we use AI, but whether we will still be relevant when it has become standard.“

Service price development remains subdued – structure and region are decisive factors

The analyses show that the price level continues to develop in a differentiated manner:

• Nearly two-thirds of IT service providers plan to increase their service prices, while 35.8 percent do not intend to make any adjustments (p. 15, Figure 6); many increases that were planned at the time the IT Service Price Index 2025 was compiled have so far only been implemented cautiously.
• Larger companies achieve higher prices than smaller providers (p. 17, chart 7)
• Regionally, prices are lowest in the new federal states (p. 18, chart 8) 
• Internationally, higher price levels are evident in Austria (p. 19)

Revenue growth primarily through managed services but also through hardware sales.

In the current fiscal year (p. 22, Figure 9), many companies are reporting stronger revenue growth than in the previous year. One driver is the migration to Windows 11, which increased the percentage of hardware revenue from 17.1 percent to 39.7 percent (see IT Service Price Index 2025, p. 24 and IT Service Price Index 2026, p. 22). Nevertheless, the strongest growth driver remains the provision of managed services at 57.6 percent (p. 22, Figure 10). 

However, the number of employees has only increased slightly – an indication of efficiency gains, automation and changed service models (p. 24, Figure 11).

New entrepreneurial challenges are coming into focus.

A clear shift is evident in the entrepreneurial challenges (p. 26, Figure 12). The increasing effort required for complex administrative tasks (44.5 percent) has replaced the shortage of skilled workers (42.2 percent) as the biggest challenge. A new category, "pressure to innovate," has emerged, surprisingly preoccupying many companies (35.1 percent). 

The weighting of the challenges differs significantly according to company size (p. 27, Figure 13). While sole proprietors rate many issues as equally critical, the shortage of skilled workers remains the clear top priority for companies with 5 to 49 employees. For companies with more than 50 employees, restructuring the business model is the biggest challenge, cited by 58.8 percent of respondents.

Managed Services: Contracts and Recurring Challenges

In the area of managed services for business customers, it is evident that 58.4 percent of companies still serve customers without a fixed contract and do not intend to change this (p. 39, Figure 14). System integrators are therefore facing untapped potential for predictable, recurring revenue.

The challenges for managed service providers have changed only slightly in recent years. Automation remains the top challenge at 54.3 percent, closely followed by billing and sales of managed services (p. 42, Figure 15). Furthermore, the IT service price comparison on pages 45 to 47 provides insights into the prices of individual managed services and the software used. 

IT security and open source: increasing demands, new opportunities

Looking at technologies and framework conditions, a growing need for investment is particularly evident on the customer side. Consequently, many system integrators are planning the introduction of additional security technologies (p. 51, Figure 15). These play a particularly important role in connection with ISO 27001 certification or the implementation of NIS-2. This opens up significant business potential for IT service providers, as they can support their customers in planning, implementation, and operation. Funding programs offer additional opportunities to make necessary security investments more economically attractive and to expedite the decision to award contracts.

For the first time, the use of open-source solutions was systematically surveyed (p. 73, Figures 16 and 17). Almost half of the respondents already use open source for clients, although mostly without their own development resources. The main drivers are cost advantages, followed by the desire for digital sovereignty and greater vendor independence.

Cloud computing, IaaS, and in-house data centers continue to gain in importance.

In parallel, the infrastructure offerings are evolving. More than half of the surveyed companies are expanding their Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) offerings, while smaller providers have so far offered these services less frequently (p. 76). Overall, there is a clear trend toward proprietary products and services from in-house data centers, the importance of which has recently increased further (p. 77).

Conclusion and Outlook

The 2026 IT Service Price Index reveals an industry caught between increasing complexity, technological transformation, and comparatively moderate price development. While traditional service prices are only growing slowly, value creation and demand are increasingly shifting towards managed services, artificial intelligence, and security-related services. The price index thus provides IT service providers not only with a sound market overview but also with a reliable basis for strategically developing their service portfolio in a continuing challenging market environment.

Further information/graphics can be found in the linked PDF file.

Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock/Rietberg, December 2025 – SYNAXON AG has been supporting the Rietberg Youth Center's Christmas campaign every year since 2016. In 2025, the partnership celebrated its tenth anniversary. 105 employees participated again this year, fulfilling the wishes of 150 children. supervised children and young people.

Christmas joy for young people at the Rietberg Youth Center

The Rietberg Youth Center provides a stable and supportive environment for children and young people. Many of them spend the holidays in their residential groups, which is why small gestures of attention and appreciation at Christmas are especially meaningful and not something these young people take for granted. The annual gift drive by SYNAXON AG is a highlight for many of them.

105 SYNAXON employees are participating in the fundraising campaign

However, fulfilling the specific wishes of the more than one hundred participating SYNAXON employees isn't always easy. "Besides games, books, or specific clothing items, the wish lists also include dumbbells or a PlayStation as a group gift. As far as we know, no one has yet been thwarted by the complexity of their request," says Frank Geise, Head of Staff at SYNAXON AG.

Michaela Wiese from the Rietberg Youth Center reports: „The long-standing collaboration between the Rietberg Youth Center and SYNAXON AG is of great value to our organization. We are deeply touched that this special Christmas campaign has been repeated every year since 2016 – and how wonderful it is that it is now taking place for the tenth time in these fast-paced times. Each year, our children and young people experience having a personally chosen gift from people they don't know personally – a powerful sign of appreciation and connection.”.

As one child so aptly put it: 'I think it's so great that SYNAXON brings us gifts every year, even though they don't know us at all.' This commitment touches us anew each year and supports our work in a special way.‚

Social engagement is more important than ever

Miguel Rodriguez, COO of SYNAXON AG, concludes: „2025 was a successful year for us as an IT network group. But of course, we are fully aware that many people are doing very differently, and so we are grateful that we can bring joy with this campaign, where not only a check is handed over, but where every child receives something for themselves.“

Microsoft & SYNAXON invite you to their joint roadshow 2025

Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock, October 2025 – SYNAXON AG and Microsoft are launching an exclusive roadshow for all SYNAXON partners in 2025. Under the motto "Tech Talk Thrill – Microsoft & SYNAXON Experience Tour 2025," partners will have the opportunity to network at exceptional locations in Germany, gain exciting insights into current Microsoft technologies, and expand their network.

The tour stops at a glance

• Brühl – Phantasialand: October 30, 2025 (Keynote address by Ralph Friederichs, among others)
• Bispingen – Ralf Schumacher Kartcenter: November 20, 2025 (Keynote address by Alexander Eggers, among others)
• Munich – BMW Welt: December 4, 2025 (Keynote address by Alexander Eggers, among others)

Terms and conditions of participation and registration

Registration takes place via the SYNAXON Academy event pages (per location). Places are limited. 

Only SYNAXON partners are eligible to participate. Participation is free of charge.

Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock, September 11, 2025 – The SYNAXON Partner CEO Conference 2025 took place last week with approximately 210 participants. The focus was on the current challenges and future prospects of the IT industry. The event offered CEOs of system houses and IT service providers a forum for strategic insights, technological innovations, and intensive exchange with peers.

Positive sentiment among participants regarding business development in 2025

While various current market studies have reached conflicting conclusions, SYNAXON CEO Mark Schröder took the opportunity at the outset to gauge the mood among the partners present. The clear result: The vast majority of participants were optimistic and satisfied with business development in 2025. Although Schröder admits that this survey represents only a partial view, the positive atmosphere permeated the entire conference, making it clear at the SYNAXON Partner CEOs' Meeting that networking and solidarity are particularly important in uncertain times. 

Mark Schröder: „As a service provider, we operate in a complex arena of requirements. This can overwhelm one person alone. Together we can manage everything, and that's why we should remain optimistic!“

Main topics of the conference

• Market development & strategic orientation – Analysis of the current dynamics in the IT market as well as future prospects for IT service providers and system houses.
• Artificial Intelligence & Automation – Use of AI in recruiting, IT support and marketing, legal frameworks and process automation in the system house business.
• IT Security & Resilience – Protection against geopolitical risks, integration of modern security solutions and strengthening of European sovereignty.
• Technological Innovations & Infrastructure – from Windows 11 and Copilot+ PCs to modern server landscapes and cloud and platform solutions.
• Business Management & Organization – Strategies for succession, mental health, brand development and collaborative teamwork.

A successful event with a satisfactory outcome.

„With this year’s SYNAXON Partner Management Conference, we offered our partners a platform to exchange ideas on key industry topics and gain concrete insights for their own business development. The feedback from participants shows that we offered the right topics. However, with the number of participants growing year after year, we must consider leaving the SYNAXON headquarters in Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock in 2026 and moving to a larger event location,“ summarizes Friedrich Pollert, Head of the SYNAXON Academy.

The date for the next SYNAXON partner management meeting has already been set for September 10, 2026; the location will be announced later.

Photo gallery

You can find pictures in this Folder; Image captions can be added in this document can be viewed.

Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock, July 2025 – SYNAXON AG will begin its fourth annual apprentice kick-off week with the start of the new training year on August 1st – a format that has become an integral part of the company's training strategy in recent years. Lasting almost two weeks, the program will once again provide the nine new apprentices with a thorough introduction to the company culture, values, and knowledge – and fosters a strong apprentice community.

A structured introduction instead of a plunge into the unknown.

What began four years ago as a response to inadequate onboarding structures is now a key element for a successful start to professional life at SYNAXON. The Kick-Off Week was developed by Nadja Hüsemann, Team Leader of Personnel Development at SYNAXON AG, who, together with trainees, sought ways to make the onboarding process more practical and sustainable. The decisive impetus came from the trainee representatives, who had compiled the needs of the new colleagues and communicated them to the personnel development department.

„Many companies offer apprenticeships that start directly in practical work – we deliberately do things differently,“ explains Nadja Hüsemann. „It’s important to us that our new apprentices have a clear understanding of SYNAXON before they begin their professional lives. Those who know what we stand for and how we work together feel more confident – and that’s exactly the foundation we lay during the kick-off week.“

Knowledge, values and networking

A key objective of the kick-off week is to bring all new trainees to the same level of knowledge – especially regarding basic information about training in an IT company. SYNAXON's self-image and unique corporate culture are emphasized. At the same time, shared activities foster close networking among the trainees. The kick-off week fundamentally represents an open corporate culture, active participation, and the courage to contribute one's own ideas.

Former trainees take on responsibility

Of particular note is the active role of former trainees, who participate in the kick-off week as mentors and knowledge providers. They independently take on training topics and help shape the program. Anna Lena Grieß, a former trainee at SYNAXON and now primarily responsible for the trainee kick-off week, outlines its content: "The kick-off week gives the new trainees an overview of SYNAXON. Our unique way of working needs to be understood by the trainees and become second nature to them. Besides familiarizing themselves with the world of SYNAXON, it's also about building trust among them, so that they can then start in their regular department with a positive feeling and the necessary basic knowledge about SYNAXON."„

The concept works: „The kick-off week really helped me to quickly find my feet – professionally, but especially personally,“ says Tjorven Schulz, Junior Corporate Communications Manager and former trainee at SYNAXON. „When I talked to friends from other companies, I really realized how special our onboarding was. Many start at the deep end – we first understood what our company stands for. That made a real difference.“

Sustainable training at SYNAXON

The kick-off week is just the beginning: Key aspects of the training curriculum are taught through centralized in-house training sessions. Trainees aren't simply left to fend for themselves with online tutorials: SYNAXON is proud that the content is delivered by colleagues who are experts in their field – and who consciously dedicate their time to the new recruits.

„Our trainees“ connection to the company has improved even further – and this is paying off, both in terms of performance and loyalty,„ explains Nadja Hüsemann. “Our strategy is clear: We focus on training and want to inspire young people to pursue careers in IT. In East Westphalia-Lippe (OWL), we are now considered a strong training company – and word is getting around. We have significantly less difficulty recruiting new trainees because people know: At SYNAXON, you get excellent training.”

With this format, SYNAXON AG demonstrates how modern training can succeed – structured, participatory and future-oriented – and how companies can ensure they retain scarce skilled workers through good training.

Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock, July 2, 2025 – Whether wars, tariffs, or trade conflicts: The need for digital sovereignty for German and European IT solutions is growing. In response, iTeam – the IT cooperation within the Schloß Holte-based IT network SYNAXON – is bridging the gap between research and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs): Last week, the 380 affiliated IT service providers were given the opportunity to participate in a webinar with Fraunhofer IAIS, where an AI language model made in Germany was presented to the participants. Further events of this kind are planned.

Technical webinar: Open-source artificial intelligence

The timing is no coincidence: The discussion about digital independence is gaining relevance – due to geopolitical uncertainties, import dependency, and new legal requirements. According to a Bitkom study on digital sovereignty, over half of companies expect negative impacts from international politics. US and Chinese providers dominate, particularly in software and cybersecurity. 

Against this backdrop, the call for alternatives is growing louder. More and more stakeholders – including public institutions – are relying on open-source technologies from Europe to reduce dependencies. The AI language model Teuken 7B was developed jointly with partners within the framework of the OpenGPT-X research project, led by Fraunhofer. The goal was to offer a high-performance and trustworthy AI alternative of European origin. With the iTeam webinar, an important player enters the picture: German SMEs for its implementation in their operations.

A data-secure AI model – also for SMEs

Dr. Christoph Schmidt from Fraunhofer IAIS summarizes: »Teuken 7B is optimized for the 24 official European languages and offers SMEs complete data sovereignty as well as compliance with all German and European data protection standards. Teuken 7B is already being offered to companies for operation by Telekom and IONOS. The model offers concrete application possibilities for SMEs, particularly for IT service providers within the iTeam cooperation.«

Above all, digital sovereignty is what makes the project so valuable for SYNAXON and its iTeam partners: "For IT service providers, it is becoming increasingly important not only to understand AI theoretically, but also to be able to use it practically and responsibly in customer projects," comments Nicole Bade, Managing Director of the iTeam system house cooperation. "Through the webinar with Fraunhofer, our partners gained insights into an AI solution within their own companies that is truly made in Germany. The data of the system houses and their customers therefore remains where it belongs: in their possession."»

Idea generators for new paths

»Both the iTeam cooperation and the entire SYNAXON group are aware of the importance of digital sovereignty in Europe. We see it as our responsibility to leverage our connections to more than 3,300 IT system houses in Germany to future-proof them and provide them with concrete options. Through these and many other measures, we are fulfilling our mission as the largest IT network: to inspire, forge connections, and open up growth opportunities that benefit the entire German economy,« concludes Mark Schröder, CEO of SYNAXON AG.

Kiel/Oslo, May 2025 – The AI cruise organized by the consortium from May 14th to 16th, 2025, demonstrates that IT conferences can be successful even outside of established locations. While the days at sea were used for AI training content, the highlight of the trip was for participants to explore the Norwegian capital.

Participation through prize draw

In October 2024, a five-month incentive program was launched for SYNAXON's 3,200 partners, offering tickets for fully sponsored seats on a cruise ship from Kiel to Oslo as prizes. SYNAXON partners who purchased Windows 11 Pro devices on the EGIS purchasing platform during this period qualified for the prize draw. Only a limited number of additional tickets were available for purchase.

AI news and many networking opportunities on board

Technical presentations on AI topics were offered by sponsors including Microsoft, Lenovo, and AMD. Additionally, SYNAXON partners benefited from practical tips on developing AI business models for SME clients, presented by lecturer Frank Neumann of EDV Neumann GmbH. Benjamin Tasche of betaITS GmbH and Ralf Risch of Microsoft further enriched the event with their hands-on presentations on the use of AI assistants and tips for successful prompting. 

During the 46 hours at sea, the more than 100 participants had time to expand their network – both on the ship and during the sightseeing tour through Oslo. 

The AI cruise was not intended to be the last incentive.

Following the outstanding feedback on the AI cruise, SYNAXON is already planning further events outside the traditional training rooms. "Continuing education is important – we see that in the more than 6,500 participants who attended events at our SYNAXON Academy last year alone. But it's also important to offer a break from the daily grind. And a cruise is perfectly suited for that. Let's see what we can offer our partners next," concludes Friedrich Pollert, Head of the SYNAXON Academy.

Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock, May 2025 – The SYNAXON Academy has published the second edition of the SYNAXON Salary Survey this year. With this publication, the cooperative group once again offers a sound overview of the salary structure for SYNAXON partners, particularly for small and medium-sized IT companies with up to 50 employees.

IT salary surveys are more informative than online salary checks.

»90 of the 242 companies that responded to our survey employ fewer than 50 people,« summarizes Friedrich Pollert, Head of the SYNAXON Academy. »This percentage makes the salary survey so valuable for our partner companies. Unlike online job or salary portals, the IT salary survey provides a much more accurate picture of the situation our SYNAXON partners are in, enabling comparability. Furthermore, the IT salary survey covers almost all roles within a systems integrator – from IT system administrators and marketing specialists to logistics managers and managing directors. This also increases the publication's value for our partners.«

Significant salary differences in IT support

The analysis reveals significant salary differences between the support levels:

• 1st Level: Average €39,000/year
• 2nd Level: Ø €46,678/year
• 3rd Level: Ø €58,082/year

The figures clearly demonstrate the value of experience and specialization within IT support.

The 4-day week remains the exception.

Working time models were also surveyed. The initial enthusiasm for the 4-day week at the beginning of last year apparently hasn't taken hold, as only 11 companies have implemented this model. Furthermore, 85 companies reported a 40-hour work week – meaning traditional full-time employment remains the standard.

System houses score points with employee benefits.

Despite economic challenges, many system houses offer attractive benefits:

• 90 % regularly organize employee events
• 75 % provide catering services
• 55.2 % offer mobility allowances or job tickets
• 45.3 % Employee discounts
• 28.4 % Recognition Programs

Work-life balance measures such as sabbaticals (12.1 %) remain rare, however – presumably due to the strained economic situation and the shortage of skilled workers.

Employee growth and recruiting channels

Over 40 of the companies increased their workforce last year – at 6.4 of them, the growth was even over 20. 

The following recruiting channels were the most successful:

• Company website (54.8 %)
• Social Media (40.1 %)
• Online job portals (38.1 %)
• Employee referrals (36.5 %)

Less effective: career networks (26.9 %), headhunters (17.8 %) and events (17.3 %).

Challenges and tasks for IT companies

Friedrich Pollert succinctly summarizes the situation: »The coming years will present IT companies with enormous challenges: The shortage of skilled workers is intensifying – in 2023 alone, 149,000 IT positions remained unfilled in Germany – and technological development is progressing faster than many employees can adapt. Skills are becoming increasingly obsolete, while new abilities such as AI expertise, machine learning, core tech skills, and cloud-related competencies are in ever-greater demand. To actively shape this transformation, companies should focus on continuous professional development, targeted skills management, cross-company collaboration, and creative recruiting approaches – thereby securing their long-term attractiveness as employers.«

A valuable compass for system houses

The IT Salary Survey 2025 provides guidance for small and medium-sized IT companies in a challenging market environment. Those who want to attract, retain, and fairly compensate talent will find well-founded answers and concrete suggestions here. The publication is available for free download to all SYNAXON partners. synaxon.com/academy available.

SYNAXON Managed Services Summit 2025 – Introducing a new event format focusing on managed services

Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock, May 2025: SYNAXON AG has launched a new event format, premiering in Frankfurt am Main from June 3-4, 2025, and focusing specifically on managed services. The event combines the popular "Managed Services Forum" and the "SYNAXON Services Partner Day" into a new format and is aimed specifically at system integrators who offer and want to further develop managed services.

Hands-on tips for Managed Services Providers

Instead of numerous consecutive lectures, the event is highly interactive and primarily encourages and demands the exchange of experiences among all participants in discussion and conversation rounds. This allows questions and problems to be addressed directly to like-minded individuals, helping participants to obtain firsthand solutions to their problems and expand their network.

Preview of lectures and key topics

A particular highlight is the keynote address by Ralph Friederichs, Managing Director of CYBERDYNE IT GmbH. His topic is... „"Extinction or Evolution? Managed Services in the Age of AI"“ He gives participants an insight into the disruptive changes brought about by AI and their impact on the MSP business. 

In addition, the agenda includes other important topics from various fields, thus providing diverse insights:

• • Strategic development of managed services: New managed services and growth strategies for MSPs
  • Sales, customer loyalty and positioning: Discussion of current models, price transparency and margin optimization, as well as customer communication for sales success

• Technical implementation and tools: Insight into various managed services solutions and their use at the customer's site.

• Organization, team and processes: Practical tips for founders and newcomers, the merger process with a focus on managed services, and the importance of specialists and team composition in the MSP sector.

Looking forward to the new event format

Friedrich Pollert, Head of the SYNAXON Academy, is optimistic that the SYNAXON Managed Services Summit in Frankfurt am Main will be a resounding success: „With the central venue, the new concept, and many exciting topics, we are confident that we have created a fantastic format for SYNAXON partners. Our clearly defined focus on managed services ensures that participation in the event will truly pay off.“ 

Markus Rex, General Manager of SYNAXON Services, adds: „As a Master MSP, we see ourselves not only as a provider of managed services solutions, but also as a strategic partner for our system integrator customers. We support them in automating processes, taking over routine tasks, and efficiently marketing and billing services. Our goal is to pave the way for our partners to build a scalable, growth-oriented managed services business – with practical insights, proven tools, and formats like the new SYNAXON Managed Services Summit. In this way, we help them identify trends early, make informed decisions, and future-proof their businesses.“

Further information

The registration phase is currently underway; SYNAXON expects approximately 100 participants to be welcomed at the Scandic Frankfurt Museumsufer in Frankfurt am Main from June 3rd to 4th, 2025. Registration is available at [website address - please insert here]. synaxon.com/de/akademie/synaxon-managed-services-summit-42422. 

Kassel, April 2025: For the tenth consecutive year, SYNAXON will host "Impulses for System Houses," the largest event in the system house group, on April 2nd. This trendsetting industry event for IT service providers and system houses attracts more than 600 SYNAXON partners, manufacturers, distributors, and speakers to learn about and discuss current challenges and future prospects in the IT industry.

Positive mood thanks to good figures and rosy prospects

Unlike the overall business situation in the German economy, the mood in the IT sector has been noticeably more optimistic in recent weeks: According to the latest figures from the iSCM Institute, the business situation in the ICT sector in January and February 2025 was better than it has been for almost two years.

According to SYNAXON CEO Mark Schröder, IT service providers should get used to the optimistic, busy atmosphere at the 10th Impulse for System Houses conference, because only those who prepare now can fully exploit the opportunities ahead. This includes, among other things, the impact of the billions that the German government will invest in military and civilian infrastructure over the next ten years. And this, Schröder says, could put an end to the reluctance to invest that many SYNAXON partners have reported in recent months and trigger a market turnaround by 2025. A development from which the IT industry will clearly benefit, Schröder emphasizes: "Investments can't be postponed indefinitely. Take the switch to Windows 11, for example. Millions of devices in Germany still need to be upgraded – whether companies want to or not!"„

The focus of the event: AI and process automation, business growth and the human element.

The goal of the Impulse for System Houses initiative is to prepare for these important trends and developments, to provide as much inspiration as possible, and to use this knowledge to master the day-to-day business of system houses in a future-proof manner. 

Unsurprisingly, artificial intelligence was a key focus, but so too was process automation, as lecturer Kai Osthoff of vectano GmbH addressed in his presentation "Automation first, then AI? The chicken-and-egg question for us!". His credo: Without proper processes, successful AI integration will be difficult. 

However, the topic of AI brings other factors into play: business growth, especially the success factors, scaling and strategic realignment in dynamic IT markets.

But amidst all these efficiency-driven developments, one thing must not be forgotten: people, whose health and well-being play a central role in business success – from both the entrepreneurial and employee perspectives. Several presentations on this topic demonstrated that commitment in this area pays off in many ways – for example, in attracting skilled workers.

A diverse mix of more than 40 keynote speeches, panel discussions and keynote addresses from a total of 52 lecturers.

The following key topics were addressed at the Impulse for System Houses 2025 event:

• Artificial Intelligence & Automation: Practical application scenarios of AI and process automation in the everyday work of a systems house.
• Future-oriented corporate management: Success factors for growth, scaling and strategic realignment in dynamic IT markets.
• Employee retention & corporate culture: New approaches in personnel development – from employer branding and leadership to mental health.
• Sales and business model innovations: New approaches to managed services, IT flat rates and growth-oriented customer strategies.
• IT security & cyber defense: Strategies for prevention, response and recovery from cyberattacks.
• Modern IT infrastructure & cloud solutions: Developments surrounding hybrid infrastructures, edge computing, ERP integration and platform solutions.
• Digital Work Environments & Transformation: Solutions for efficient collaboration, digital time tracking and future-proof working models.
• Marketing & Brand Positioning: Strategies for differentiation in the competitive landscape – from social selling to a strong employer brand.

A successful networking event in an established setting

Friedrich Pollert, head of the SYNAXON Academy, is very pleased with the event: „This year marked the 10th edition of the ‘Impulses for System Houses’ event. To give you an idea of the scale: We started in 2016 with 50 participants. Ten years later, we have over 600 participants – a fantastic development. One of my highlights this year was definitely our prominent guest, Sascha Lobo, who, in my opinion, demonstrates how firmly our event has established itself as an industry meeting point. But our pre-event, themed [insert theme here], was also a great success.” ‚La Dolce Vita‘ as well as the honest and inspiring panel discussion on the topic ‚Where is my head? Challenges and opportunities for IT entrepreneurs in turbulent times.‘ They impressed me. I'm already looking forward to next year – in the familiar venue, but then a bit longer: Instead of one day, the Impulse for System Houses 2026 will last 1.5 days, giving us more time for the key topics.“

Impulses for System Houses 2026 – Save the Date

The largest SYNAXON event will once again take place at the Kassel Congress Center next year. Early bird tickets for the popular industry event, scheduled for March 24-25, 2026, are already available.

Statement on International Women's Day by Nicole Bade

On the occasion of International Women's Day, iTeam CEO Nicole Bade explains her perspective on working in IT – and the opportunities the industry offers, especially for women. Her view: It's not just companies or entrenched opinions about the IT industry, but also women themselves who need to shake off their prejudices against the industry's stereotypes.

IT with a twist – a change of perspective
by Nicole Bade

I am the managing director of a systems integrator cooperative. I have worked in the IT industry for more than 25 years – and I am fully committed to it. It was a conscious decision – and I would make it again in a heartbeat.

„"What's it like to work in IT as a woman?" Honestly, this question surprises me every time – it shows just how much the topic of "women in IT" still resonates with us. I can't speak for all women, so on International Women's Day I'll answer a more important question: "Why did I choose IT?"”

Quite simply: because this industry shapes our lives in the here and now. Without IT, not only production comes to a standstill, but also logistics, healthcare, and administration. IT solves the problems of today and tomorrow. Hardly any other industry shapes our future so actively – innovatively, adaptably, and with genuine growth potential.

Yes to IT out of enthusiasm for the industry – not because of the quota.

According to Bitkom, the proportion of women in the ICT sector is 30%. Among IT professionals, it is...
18 % – there were fewer ten years ago, but our industry still has potential. 

In my view, however, the quota is not the decisive factor, but rather that women decide for or against IT based on a realistic picture. It is up to us as an industry to explain what IT is all about!

Diversity is not a trend – it is a necessity.

Our industry thrives on diversity because IT is complex. We need bridge builders between business and IT, analytical minds who understand and shape processes, and experts deeply immersed in the technology. In short: IT is primarily about people and talent with a wide range of strengths. We cannot afford to discourage people with a passion for technology with outdated stereotypes.

IT – a space for bright minds, not clichés

In IT, there's a suitable role for every talent – regardless of gender, age, or background. What truly matters is a desire for responsibility, openness to new things, and the willingness to grow through challenges. Not because someone is a woman or a man – but because performance, curiosity, and commitment count.

International Women's Day reminds us how important it is to question established opinions. I myself have recognized the opportunities our industry offers – and that's exactly what I wish for all the talented women out there who might still be wondering whether IT is the right field for them.

Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock, January 2025 – SYNAXON Academy publishes the 14th edition of its renowned IT Service Price Index. This specialist publication offers a comprehensive overview of current service prices in the German IT industry and analyzes developments in the German IT market. With data from more than 700 participants across Germany, the report is an indispensable reference work for IT service providers, business customers, and industry experts.

Service prices and industry trends in focus

The IT Service Price Index 2025 offers detailed insights into the pricing of IT services in Germany – from hourly rates and prices by postal code region to IT service prices and flat rates based on company size, as well as prices for defined managed services. In addition to price trends, the study also highlights key developments and industry trends such as:

• Use of Artificial Intelligence in System Houses
• Sales expectations
• Entrepreneurial challenges such as skills shortages and increasing complexity
• Use and satisfaction with IT security solutions
• Overview and evaluation of deployed software solutions

Friedrich Pollert, head of the SYNAXON Academy, is convinced: „The IT service price index 2025 provides concrete data that helps IT service providers to objectively assess the German IT market.“

Outstanding insights into the results

• Widening of the south-north divide: In the postal code area 01-09, the hourly rate for a technician's services for standard IT services is €84.71 net – in Munich, however, it is €118.50 net (see p. 20).
• Changes due to AI: While around 42% of the surveyed companies expected no changes in 2023, 69.9% of the surveyed companies already expect predominantly positive effects of AI on their business model in 2024 (see p. 33).
• Growth in Managed Services: For 67.1% of the surveyed companies, Managed Services represent the area with the greatest revenue growth (see p. 24).

„We have been conducting the IT service price survey since 2010, and a comparison with inflation trends over the same period shows that hourly rates have risen significantly more. At the same time, managed services are the area with the strongest revenue growth, which raises the legitimate question of whether surveying hourly rates is still relevant. However, since many companies – especially for projects – also use hybrid models, the hourly rate remains the most important basis for calculating quotes. Furthermore, the IT service price index also serves as one of the foundations for calculating flat rates for all managed services. This will not change in the coming years,“ Friedrich Pollert explains. 

Indispensable for the IT industry

The IT Service Price Index has established itself in recent years as one of the industry's most important resources, providing a nationwide overview of service prices and developments in the IT market. The report's fundamental data has been collected annually since 2010 by SYNAXON through an anonymous survey of its small and medium-sized partner companies and subsequently analyzed. In addition to current hourly rates, the survey also gathers information on managed service prices, revenue expectations for the current fiscal year, challenges for the coming years, and the software solutions used. This edition also includes the topic of AI in the IT Service Price Index for the first time. Taken together, this provides a comprehensive picture with precise market data, from which small and medium-sized enterprises in particular can benefit and draw conclusions about their own market positioning. 

Availability and contact

The IT Service Price Index 2025 has been available from the SYNAXON Academy since January 21, 2025. Interested parties can access the report at [link to report]. synaxon.com/academy Download for free and use the graphics with attribution. 

Contact for inquiries:
Friedrich Pollert
E-mail: friedrich.pollert@synaxon.de
Telephone: +49 (0)5207 92 99-223