Based on a study of end user experiences in 125 organizations across the globe, the research was undertaken by analyst firm Ovum.

In a blunt warning to IT managers the research advises users to learn the tricks of the trade to avoid being forced into a purchase.

Ovum software practice leader, David Mitchell, said the research also offers advice on how to counteract such tactics and advises vendors to implement better practices.

Mitchell said software companies claim they have become customer-centric and that they have left the world of questionable sales tactics behind them. But this is all forgotten, he said, when vendors are under sales pressure.

Alarmingly, every single organization interviewed cited at least one issue with their suppliers.