ICT is one of the largest and most dynamic sectors in South West England. The industry employs about 70,000 people in the region and has grown by 10 percent since 1997. 
 
The sector is large and diverse with hardware manufacture, computer and related activities, telecommunications, and publishing. 
 
The ICT sector in the South West is concentrated in the north and east of the region.  
 
Bristol has nearly a third of ICT employment and hardware production is concentrated in Wiltshire and Swindon. 
 
The sector is expected to continue to grow, driven by developments in new technology. Trends include a shift towards activities such as software, media, content, and services. This, together with the advent of network technologies such as broadband internet, digital interactive television, and mobile communications are creating new markets for ICT. 
 
For more information on the ICT sector in the South West of England, please visit www.southwestengland.co.uk.