The business services industry includes a range of activities that support a company but do not create or deliver a tangible product. These include consulting, information technology and administrative tasks such as shipping and procurement. Business services can help companies reduce costs, streamline operations and improve employee productivity.
Unlike goods, which can be stockpiled for future use, a service cannot be stored. It has to be consumed when it is required, making the process of delivering a service more time-consuming than that of producing goods. This is one of the key differences between goods and services.
There is significant untapped potential in the European Union (EU) for businesses that provide business services, accounting for 11% of GDP and contributing to a broad mix of jobs. EU internal market legislation and policy actions are designed to address obstacles and stimulate competitiveness in this sector.
Business services provide a valuable contribution to the economy, ranging from basic transport and communication to financial, employment and other professional services. They are also an important part of the supply chain of manufactured goods, adding value and transforming raw materials into new products.
Business services can be delivered to customers through business units or to external customers in a business-to-business model. They are typically a combination of an IT Service and a Device Service. Business Services Center services are available to students, faculty, and staff of Morningside Heights College as well as the public at a reasonable cost.