From 2013 to 2019, the IT services sector in Austria experienced a general upward trajectory in the number of self-employed people, as measured in million hours, with occasional fluctuations. Significant growth was seen from 2013 to 2014 with a 13.5% increase, and again in 2018 with a 9.94% rise. However, 2020 witnessed a sharp decline of 14.31%, likely attributable to broader economic disruptions. Recovery followed with moderate growth, stabilizing around 28.92 million hours in 2023, slightly down by 0.41% from the previous year.
Future trends to watch for include the projected marginal increase in the self-employed sector in IT services, averaging a CAGR of 0.38% over the next five years, indicating a potential for low but steady growth. External factors such as global economic conditions, technological advancements, and workforce preferences towards freelancing will play crucial roles in shaping this trajectory.