The economic recession is also impacting the analyst world, causing IDC to layoff 5% of its worldwide staff including 26 of its research analysts.

In a statement posted by CNET, the analyst firm said, "IDC will continue to have more than 1,000 research analysts worldwide which is more than any other technology market intelligence and advisory company."

Layoffs aren't something we like to hear about - it is affecting someone and their family.  However, a 5% layoff might seem relatively small and quite possibly a positive number considering the state of the economy.

CNET's Ina Fried also stated that analyst firm Gartner reported that it would cut 117 workers worldwide back in January of this year. 

Best of luck to all of these individuals and other's facing similar challenges in this economy.