Businesses could need staff skilled in social sciences to fill next-generation technology roles, it has been suggested, which may increase the need for IT outsourcing.

A new report from IT analyst Gartner pointed out that technology is likely to become more prevalent in family, social, and business relationships over the next five years.

The organisation also predicted that this will mean companies will have to adapt their established business culture and infrastructure to deal with the wider changes in behaviors and technology, which may see them turn to IT outsourcing.

Kathy Harris, vice president and distinguished analyst at Gartner, commented: “Many emerging jobs and roles will not simply specialise in one skill area, but will blend business, artistic and technical skills.”

Recently, the Computing.co.uk/Cobalt Technology Barometer claimed that there has been a cautious return of optimism among IT managers in areas such as staff numbers, salaries, spending and technology priorities.