A study by Emerson Network Power showed that planned projects this year has increased by 12 per cent "after four periods of steady decline".

The recently released October study is the fifth in a biannual series started in 2008. The study covered most industries, including IT and telecommunications, banking and financial services, education, government, industrial, and infrastructure.

But the study also grouped respondents according to how they relate to Emerson. That is, respondents were identified as either users of Emerson services and equipment; those who design and construct projects; or those who buy and sell Emerson services or products.

The study showed that the Design and Construction segment (composed mostly of consulting engineers) reported a rise in projects forecast by more than 30 per cent, and an eight per cent growth of projects scheduled for deployment within six months.

"This is a change from the more cautious approach that we have seen in previous reports," said Russell Perry, director for marketing and customer insight, Emerson Network Power, Asia. "While companies are not throwing caution to the wind, it is clear that they are planning for growth across all sectors."