In a recent study by the IEER entitled "Trends and careers in the software industry" the current situation of the software industry is examined. The analysis deals with the question of what trends can be observed in recent and current developments of the sector as well as what changes delegate the likely future orientation of the software industry. In order to achieve our goal it is not only important to deal with regional and global trends, but also to discuss the features and history of some typical companies of the software industry.