Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS) - Information Technology Sector
45 Information Technology
The Information Technology (IT) sector, characterized by rapid technological advancement and innovation, forms the backbone of digital economies globally. Its influence is far-reaching, impacting virtually all industries by providing tools, software, hardware, and services required for contemporary digitization.
The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS) is a widely accepted standard used by the global financial community for classifying companies into sectors and industries. It was developed by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) and Standard & Poor's (S&P), aiming to provide a comprehensive, consistent framework for investment research, portfolio management, and asset allocation.
4510 Software & Services
Software & Services is a dynamic sub-sector of IT, focusing on the creation of applications and provision of services that enable users to perform tasks, interact digitally, and increase productivity.
451010 Software
Software companies design and develop computer programs and applications that allow users to perform specific tasks on computers or other devices.
45101010 Internet Software & Services
Internet Software & Services companies specialize in providing software and services that enable or enhance Internet-based applications, such as cloud services and online portals.
45101020 Software
Software companies in this category offer a broad spectrum of computer programs, including operating systems, productivity tools, and specialized software solutions.
You can access a free, interactive version of the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS) - Information Technology hierarchy chart that includes panning and zooming to explore the details.
This chart is made with Lexchart for automatic organization charts.
451020 IT Services
Companies in the IT Services category provide services to assist businesses and individuals in leveraging technology to improve operations and achieve their goals.
45102010 IT Consulting & Other Services
IT Consulting & Other Services firms offer expert advice to help organizations assess and implement advanced IT solutions for improved efficiency.
45102020 Data Processing & Outsourced Services
These companies provide data processing services, often including data entry, conversion, analysis, and management. Outsourced services may include IT functions such as infrastructure management and application development.
451030 Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals
Companies in this category manufacture or sell technology hardware, storage devices, and peripheral equipment.
45103010 Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals
Companies in this category provide the essential physical components of IT infrastructure, including storage devices and peripheral equipment.
451040 Communications Equipment
Communications Equipment companies design, manufacture, and sell devices and systems for information and communication technology, including networking and telecommunications equipment.
45104010 Communications Equipment
This category includes companies that provide equipment for facilitating effective information exchange across various communication channels.
451050 Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components
Companies in this category manufacture electronic equipment, instruments, and components that support a wide range of IT and communication applications.
45105010 Electronic Manufacturing Services
Electronic Manufacturing Services companies provide contract design, manufacture, test, and logistical services for electronic components and assemblies.
45105020 Technology Distributors
Technology Distributors play an essential role in the IT supply chain, providing specialized logistics and distribution services for technology products.
45105030 Electronic Equipment & Instruments
Companies in this category manufacture devices and components that have electronic functionality, used in a variety of IT and communication applications.
4520 Technology Hardware & Equipment
Technology Hardware & Equipment sub-sector includes companies that manufacture hardware and equipment for IT and communication applications.
452010 Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals
This category includes companies that provide the physical components of IT infrastructure, including storage devices and peripheral equipment.
45201010 Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals
Companies in this category provide the necessary hardware, storage, and peripheral equipment required for a comprehensive IT infrastructure.
452020 Communications Equipment
Communications Equipment companies specialize in designing, manufacturing, and selling devices and systems for information and communication technology.
45202010 Communications Equipment
These companies provide equipment for facilitating effective information exchange across different communication channels.
452030 Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components
Companies in this category manufacture electronic equipment, instruments, and components for various IT and communication applications.
45203010 Electronic Manufacturing Services
Electronic Manufacturing Services companies provide contract design, manufacture, test, and logistical services for electronic components and assemblies.
45203020 Technology Distributors
Technology Distributors play a crucial role in the IT supply chain, offering specialized logistics and distribution services for technology products.
45203030 Electronic Equipment & Instruments
Companies in this category manufacture devices and components that provide electronic functionality, used in a range of IT and communication applications.
4530 Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment sub-sector includes companies involved in the design, manufacture, and sale of semiconductors and related equipment.
453010 Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment
Companies in this category specialize in the design, manufacture, and sale of semiconductors and the equipment used in their production.
45301010 Semiconductor Equipment
These companies manufacture and sell equipment used in the production of semiconductors, such as lithography systems.
45301020 Semiconductors
Semiconductor companies design and manufacture semiconductor devices or integrated circuits, which are used in a variety of IT and communication applications.
Conclusion
The Information Technology sector, with its wide array of subsectors ranging from Software & Services to Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment, remains at the forefront of modern economies. Its influence is all-pervasive, enabling other industries to leverage technology for growth and efficiency.
Whether it's facilitating complex data processing or manufacturing critical hardware components, each subsector plays a unique role in the digital ecosystem. As the world continues to embrace digital transformation, the significance of the Information Technology sector becomes increasingly paramount, heralding continuous innovation and technological advancement.