That, essentially, is the challenge Kearney faces as the consulting market consolidates.

"The market will consolidate around the most efficient player, and that's Dell," he said.

Long term, if the market consolidates and there are fewer companies, the customer could have fewer choices.

As for what happens next, it is possible that markets will consolidate for a while.

"I would say that this market would probably consolidate within the next 24 months."

The market has been consolidating rapidly, as smaller companies fold or are snapped up by larger vendors.

The market has consolidated today into a few companies that concentrate the key projects on a worldwide basis.

Their share of the air bag market is small, and that market is consolidating.

So those who missed the rally should wait until the market consolidates and retreats.

"The market may be consolidating now, but the momentum remains on the up side."