Concern over the instability of IT systems has risen by 29% over the last year, according to the latest survey from the Pressure Point Index (PPI).

2001 was a 'gap year' for IT managers, where departments often deferred IT projects, according to the survey.

However this year in a bid to appease directors, IT managers have increased IT spending on 'quick return' projects. As a result IT managers are growing increasingly concerned over IT security.

Russell Flower, director of strategy at Synstar said: "The PPI shows a marked change in the pressures facing IT managers. Whilst in 2001 IT managers were struggling to get noticed, now with less operational tasks on their plate many have managed to forge alliances with the board.

The survey urged IT managers to 'educate the board that not everything has to glitter to be gold'. Flower added: "IT managers mustn't shy away from promoting projects that don't directly deliver ROI."