This year's Hewitt study offers several value additions to its partners in data collection, delivery in enhanced geographic representation, entry level campus salary report and web delivery of results which provides efficient and easy access to data anytime and anywhere. The study also allows for simulations & customizations and is targeted at technology organizations, which are trendsetters in HR practices in the industry.

"Our study helps to ensure that the IT industry is in sync with the market at all times amid threats of an economic slowdown, especially as the industry relies heavily on abundant, high quality talent and is faced with a crucial challenge of managing employee costs and engagement levels," said Nishchae Suri, who leads Hewitt's South and West Asia Measurement practice.

Hewitt's total rewards management study last year had over 49 study partners and is a benchmark in the area of Total Rewards for the IT Industry in India.

Besides compensation analysis, the major highlights of this study include people practices like recruiting/hiring/orientation; development and learning; work environment; rewards and recognition; health and well-being; time/work/life and HR information systems, data management and administration.

According to Amit Verma, APAC Compensation & Benefits Manager, Intel "Hewitt's study is a very good initiative. It is a welcome relief for IT companies looking for high quality compensation and practices information. The success of the study depends on the sustainability of the high quality standards over next few years. The Hewitt IT study is the first of its kind and provides Indian compensation information at a quality level comparable to other mature markets."

According to Hemant Sharma, Head of HR at Sun Microsystems, "With today's IT market being extremely cost competitive, the need for high quality compensation information is not only important but critical to maintain a strategic edge over competition. The Hewitt IT Study was an excellent tool to help Sun align with the market."