Business services are an industry that encompasses a wide range of different activities. They include marketing, consultation, logistics (including travel and facilities), waste handling, staffing services, shipping and administration to name just a few of the categories. Almost all businesses have need for one or more of these services at some point. The concept of a service differs from that of goods in several ways, most significantly because the former cannot be stockpiled for later use, and the latter must be consumed or produced immediately upon demand. Service providers must therefore be able to anticipate their customers’ needs. Customers themselves can also be involved in the operational processes of a service, often to a great extent, and their input can greatly affect the quality and cost of the service delivered. For example, an architect’s client may explain his project goals well or poorly, affecting the efficiency and quality of the design process, while a customer who dithers at a fast food counter will slow down the serving process for everyone behind him.
Companies employ business service professionals to complete tasks that require special expertise or equipment that the company does not have in house. For instance, a pest control service helps companies remove pest infestations to prevent health hazards and avoid code violations. Software services enhance the security of a company’s technology and provide updates to improve functionality. Similarly, many companies employ day care services that help employees maintain work-life balance by providing reliable child care for their families. Lastly, utility services provide utilities such as water and electricity to keep workplaces running efficiently.