This also implies that the economics of those activities will come into question. In many cases, companies have been willing to pay to outsource things based on a similar model to what would happen if the organization performed that activity in house. In a contingency model, we are likely to see more pressure, not only to make things variable and contingent, but base the contingency on measured outcomes. This effect will occur not only in IT but in areas where computing and the web model becomes more important. (e.g. Advertising)

If I can acquire things on a variable cost basis, that allows me to take more risks, since if the thing does not work out, I can wind down my relationship. Obviously, this may not happen overnight, but it is a lot less risky than acquiring the things myself, and owning them for the next decade or so.

I have to think that this will change many decision making parameters about IT. I would love to hear your view on what might change, or what is changing in your world.