Computer System Design Services NAICS 541512
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Industry Summary
The 49,252 Computer system design services providers in the US integrate computer hardware, software, and communication technologies. Types of services include computer systems design, development, and integration; customer application design and development; and IT technical consulting and support. Firms may also provide services related to network development and design, cybersecurity, and communications.
Dependence on Skilled Labor
The computer system design services industry relies on a highly skilled, highly paid workforce, which includes computer and software engineers, programmers, systems integrators, and management with experience in information technology.
Rapid Advances in Technology
The computer and information systems management industry is characterized by rapid advances in technology that create volatility and uncertainty.
Recent Developments
Mar 2, 2026 - Commercial Bankruptcies Soared In 2025
- Commercial bankruptcies increased in 2025, rivaling levels not seen since the immediate aftermath of the Great Recession, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. Computer system design services may be impacted if spending on technology decreases due to bankruptcy filings. At least 717 companies filed for bankruptcy through November. That’s about 14% more than the same 11 months of 2024, and the highest number since 2010. The increase in filings was greatest for manufacturing, construction, and transportation firms. Consumer-oriented businesses with discretionary products or services like fashion or home furnishings represented the second-largest group. The second group usually tops the list and includes many retailers.
- Increasing computer memory, solid-state drive, and graphics processing unit prices may compress profit margins for technology firms including computer system design services, according to Wired magazine. Computer system design services may include the sale of computer hardware as part of the computer systems design, development, and integration process. A key cause of increasing prices is the booming AI industry, as AI servers require a lot of the same hardware that goes into more traditional computer equipment, according to Wired. Dell COO Jeff Clarke told Wired that the current shortage is the worst he's ever seen. "Demand is way ahead of supply. And it’s driven by AI. It’s driven by infrastructure," Clarke said. Clarke also noted that the spot market price of memory is up to five times higher since September 2025.
- Global tech consulting market revenue will exceed $400 billion in 2026, according to Source Global Research. Computer system design services are likely to benefit, as it would be the first time that the $400 billion mark is crossed. The hike is being fueled by an increase in technology upgrades, with a majority of buyers (84%) planning to upgrade their tech over the coming twelve months and 81% intending to increase reliance on consultants.
- Computer system design service industry employment decreased slightly and average wages for nonsupervisory employees increased slightly during the first 11 months of 2025, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Revenue for computer system design services increased 7.7% year over year and 5.1% quarter over quarter in the second quarter of 2025, according to the US Census Bureau. Computer system design service industry sales are forecast to grow at a 2.12% compounded annual rate from 2025 to 2029, slower than the growth of the overall economy, according to Inforum and the Interindustry Economic Research Fund, Inc.
Industry Revenue
Computer System Design Services
Industry Structure
Industry size & Structure
The average computer system design service provider operates out of a single location, employs 23 workers, and generates about $5.7 million annually.
- The computer system design services industry consists of about 49,252 companies that employ over 1.1 million workers and generate over $278 billion annually.
- The industry is concentrated at the top and fragmented at the bottom; the top 50 companies account for 50% of industry revenue.
- Large firms, which include IBM, GDIT, and Unisys, typically have global operations.
Industry Forecast
Industry Forecast
Computer System Design Services Industry Growth
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