Understanding Expense Reports: Why They Matter and How to Create Them

Introduction

Every business activity comes with associated costs. Whether it's business travel or buying office supplies, these expenses matter. Tracking these costs effectively is essential for any business. The tool that aids in this process? Expense reports. This blog post delves into what an expense report is and its vital role for both businesses and employees.

Why Expense Reports Are Necessary

For Employees

Expense reports are key for employees. Why? They guarantee you get paid back for any money you've spent on work stuff. Whether you've bought a flight ticket for a business trip, picked up the lunch tab for a client meeting, or bought office supplies, a good expense report ensures you get every penny back. Plus, it's a handy tool to keep a record of your spending habits!

For Employers/Businesses

On the flip side, expense reports are useful for businesses too. They provide a clear picture of where the company's money is going. This can help identify where you might be overspending and where you could possibly save. They're also a lifesaver during tax season, making sure you're claiming all those deductible expenses. In short, they're a handy roadmap to better financial control and efficiency.

Expense reports play an instrumental role in any business. Here's why:

1. Accurate Reimbursements

Expense reports ensure fair reimbursements for employees. By documenting incurred expenses for work-related activities, they provide a clear record for businesses to refund their staff accurately and promptly.

2. Cost Control

Expense reports also serve as an essential tool for businesses to track their spending over time. By identifying cost-driving factors, they allow businesses to strategize spending reductions and enhance cost-effectiveness.

3. Simplifying Tax Deductions

Accurately recording business expenses is crucial for tax purposes. Expense reports simplify this process by keeping track of all deductible costs, ensuring businesses don't overpay or underpay their taxes.

What to Include in an Expense Report

A comprehensive expense report should include the following details:

Identifying Information: This includes details of the person filling out the report, such as their name, role, and department.

Date: The date the expense was incurred.

Amount: The total cost of the expense, inclusive of taxes.

Description: A brief account of the business expense, explaining why it was necessary.

Category: The type of expense incurred, such as travel, meals, or office supplies.

Additional Details: Information related to specific clients or projects, explanations for certain expenditures. These details provide greater context and validation for the expenses.

Common Expense Report Categories

Here are some common expense categories:

Choosing the right categories based on your business type and operations is critical to ensure accurate and efficient tracking.

How to Fill Out an Expense Report

Filling out an expense report is straightforward with these steps:

  1. Begin with your identifying information.
  2. Record the date when each expense was incurred.
  3. Note down the total cost of the expense, including taxes.
  4. Write a brief account of the expense, explaining why it was necessary.
  5. Assign a category to the expense.
  6. Attach corresponding receipts and submit the report for review.

This process can be further simplified and made more accurate with the use of accounting software or apps.

The Role of Expense Tracking Software

Expense tracking software like SystemX can revolutionize the way businesses handle their expense reports. These digital solutions allow for easy input, tracking, and categorization of expenses. They can save time, reduce errors, and streamline the reimbursement process, benefiting both businesses and employees.

Conclusion

Expense reports are more than just administrative tasks; they're a critical part of financial management for businesses. They ensure accurate reimbursements, help control costs, and simplify tax deductions. Whether done manually or through automated software, efficient management of expense reports is crucial for business success.

To enhance your business's financial management, consider implementing an efficient system for managing expense reports. Embrace the right tools and practices to ensure your business remains financially healthy and your employees are reimbursed fairly and promptly. It's time to master the art of expense reports.

What is the Minimum Wage in Quebec in 2023

In Quebec, as of 2023, the minimum wage stands at $14.50 per hour. However, some exceptions apply:

Are there Plans to Increase the Minimum Wage in Quebec

At present, there are no confirmed plans to increase the minimum wage in Quebec. The Quebec government typically reviews the minimum wage annually, considering factors like:

Staying updated with these changes is essential for both employers and employees.

Overtime Minimum Wage in Quebec

In Quebec, overtime pay is 1.5 times the employee's regular rate after 40 hours of work in a week. Key points to note are:

Quebec Minimum Wage Exemptions

There are several exemptions to the Quebec minimum wage regulations:

It is important for workers and employers to understand these exceptions to comply with the law.

FAQ for Minimum Wage in Quebec

What is the Minimum Wage in Alberta in 2023

As of 2023, the minimum wage in Alberta is $15.00 per hour. This rate applies to most employees in the province, but there are certain exceptions:

Are there Plans to Increase the Minimum Wage in Alberta

Currently, there are no officially announced plans to increase the minimum wage in Alberta. However, the Alberta government typically reviews the minimum wage annually, considering factors like:

Staying informed about these updates is crucial for both employers and employees.

Overtime Minimum Wage in Alberta

In Alberta, overtime pay is calculated as 1.5 times the employee's regular rate of pay after 8 hours of work in a day or 44 hours in a week. 

Here are the key points:

Alberta Minimum Wage Exemptions

There are a number of exemptions to the Alberta minimum wage regulations:

Employers and workers alike should understand these exceptions to ensure they comply with the rules.

FAQ for Minimum Wage in Alberta

What is the Minimum Wage in British Columbia in 2023

Overview

In 2023, the minimum wage in British Columbia (BC) is set at $15.70 per hour. This applies to most workers in the province, but some exceptions do exist:

Are there Plans to Increase the Minimum Wage in British Columbia

As it stands, no specific plans to increase the minimum wage in BC have been announced for the coming years. The BC government typically reviews the minimum wage annually, taking into consideration factors such as:

Staying updated with this information is crucial for both employers and employees.

Overtime Minimum Wage in British Columbia

In BC, overtime pay is 1.5 times the employee's regular rate after 8 hours of work in a day, and double the regular pay rate after 12 hours. 

Here are the key points:

British Columbia Minimum Wage Exemptions

Several specific exemptions to the BC minimum wage exist, including:

Workers should be aware of these exemptions, and employers must abide by these rules.

FAQ for Minimum Wage in British Columbia

What is the Minimum Wage in Ontario in 2023

Overview

The minimum wage in Ontario, Canada, in the year 2023 is $15.50 per hour. This wage is the lowest that employers can legally pay their employees in this province. The general minimum wage applies to the vast majority of workers, but there are some exceptions based on the type of work and the age of the worker, which we will discuss later.

Are there Plans to Increase the Minimum Wage in Ontario

As of now, there are discussions within the provincial government regarding further increases to the minimum wage. However, no specific plans have been officially announced. The government typically reviews the minimum wage annually and adjusts it based on several factors:

It's important to stay informed about these updates, as they directly impact both employers and employees.

Overtime Minimum Wage in Ontario

In Ontario, overtime pay is 1.5 times the employee's regular rate of pay, often referred to as "time and a half." This applies to most employees after they have worked more than 44 hours in a week. Here are a few key points:

Ontario Minimum Wage Exemptions

There are certain exemptions to the Ontario minimum wage rules. Here are some of the categories of workers who might be exempt:

It's essential for workers to understand these exemptions and for employers to be careful to follow the rules.

FAQ for Minimum Wage in Ontario

Consultant vs. Freelancer: What's The Difference?

Introduction

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, non-traditional career paths such as consulting and freelancing are becoming increasingly popular. As more and more people consider these options to leverage their skills and expertise, it's essential to understand the differences between the two roles and determine which one is the best fit for you. This blog post will compare consultants and freelancers, highlighting key differences, advantages, and disadvantages, to help you make an informed decision about your career path.

Defining Consultant and Freelancer

Consultant

A consultant is a professional who provides expert advice and specialized services to businesses or individuals in a specific industry or field. Consultants often possess a high level of expertise and experience, which allows them to help clients identify and solve problems, implement strategies, or optimize processes. They typically work with clients on a project or retainer basis and may be part of a consulting firm or operate independently. Consultants can be found in various industries, such as management, marketing, IT, human resources, and finance.

Freelancer

A freelancer, on the other hand, is an independent contractor who offers their skills and services on a project or hourly basis. Freelancers work across a wide range of industries, from creative fields such as graphic design, writing, and photography to technical areas like programming and data analysis. They typically have more flexibility in terms of their work schedule and project variety, but they are also responsible for managing their own business, including marketing, client acquisition, and billing.

Key Differences Between Consultants and Freelancers

Scope of work

One of the main differences between consultants and freelancers is the scope of their work. Consultants are generally hired to tackle complex problems or develop strategies for a specific area within a business, often working on larger projects with longer timelines. Freelancers, on the other hand, are more likely to be hired for smaller, one-off tasks or projects that can be completed independently.

Level of expertise

While both consultants and freelancers can possess a high level of expertise in their respective fields, consultants are often perceived as specialists who possess deep knowledge and experience in a particular area. Freelancers may be generalists, offering a broader range of services or specializing in a specific skill set.

Client relationships

Consultants often work with clients to develop long-term relationships, with many projects spanning months or even years. Freelancers, in contrast, tend to work with a more extensive range of clients on shorter-term projects. This difference in client relationships can impact the stability of income and ongoing business development efforts for each role.

Financial considerations

Consultants usually charge higher rates than freelancers due to their specialized expertise and the complexity of the projects they work on. They may bill clients based on project fees, hourly rates, or retainer agreements. Freelancers typically charge hourly or per-project fees, which may be lower than those of consultants. Both consultants and freelancers are responsible for their own taxes, insurance, and other business expenses.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Consultant

Pros:

Cons:

Freelancer

Pros:

Cons:

Assessing Your Skills and Career Goals

Identifying your strengths and expertise

To choose the right career path, it's essential to evaluate your skills, experience, and areas of expertise. Consider the market demand for your skills and whether you are more suited to offering specialized consulting services or a broader range of freelance services.

Determining your preferred work style

Reflect on your desired work environment and lifestyle. If you value independence and flexibility, freelancing might be a better fit. However, if you prefer long-term client relationships and the opportunity to dive deep into specific industries or projects, consulting may be more suitable.

Making the Transition

Steps to become a consultant

Steps to become a freelancer

Conclusion

In summary, the choice between consulting and freelancing depends on your skills, expertise, and personal preferences. Both career paths offer unique advantages and challenges, so it's crucial to weigh these factors carefully and align your choice with your long-term goals. By taking the time to evaluate your options and making an informed decision, you can set yourself up for a successful and fulfilling career in the ever-evolving world of work.

Become a Consultant: The World Needs You

Introduction

As the world continues to evolve, the demand for highly skilled professionals in various industries has grown exponentially. From engineers and medical workers to architects, software developers, and marketers, there is a pressing need for expertise that can drive innovation and growth. It's time for you to harness your skills and knowledge to create your own consulting firm. By taking this leap of faith, you can unlock a world of opportunity and benefits that extend beyond the traditional 9-to-5 job. This paper aims to persuade professionals like you to consider starting a consulting firm, highlighting the glamorous benefits that come with this exciting career choice.

The Benefits of Becoming a Consultant

Control Over Your Work-life Balance

Imagine a world where you have complete control over your work schedule, enabling you to achieve the perfect work-life balance. As a consultant, you have the power to dictate your hours, working when and where it suits you best. This flexibility not only improves your quality of life but also allows you to be more productive and efficient in your work.

Work Directly with Executives in Companies

Working directly with executives in companies gives you unparalleled opportunities for networking and career growth. As a consultant, you become an influential decision-maker, guiding organizations towards success with your expertise. Your impact on businesses will establish you as a trusted expert in your field.

High Income Potential

Financially, the rewards of becoming a consultant can be immense. With the potential for 7-figure salaries, your earning opportunities are only limited by your ambition and ability to grow your business. Moreover, as a consultant, you can explore international markets, travel the world, and immerse yourself in diverse cultures and work environments, expanding your horizons both professionally and personally.

Establish Recognition and Expertise in Your Field

One of the most fulfilling aspects of becoming a consultant is the opportunity to establish yourself as a foremost expert in your field. Through TED Talks, convention speakerships, and other platforms, you can build a personal brand that garners respect and recognition. As a consultant, you'll never be stuck with the mundane. Each new project brings fresh challenges and opportunities for growth, ensuring that your career remains dynamic and engaging.

Much More

An additional benefit of becoming a consultant includes autonomy and creative freedom. You'll have the power to choose the clients and projects you work on, as well as the opportunity to mentor and lead others. Your expertise will not only benefit your clients but also shape the next generation of professionals in your industry.

"The Management consulting industry was worth around $148 billion globally in 2020.The same report predicts that the market will reach $243 billion by 2027, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.1%. "

-Statista,. 2023

The Steps to Starting a Consulting Firm

Emboldened by the benefits and potential rewards, you may be eager to begin your journey as a consultant, so let's go over the steps required to start your own consulting practice. 

1. Identify your niche:

 Determine your area of expertise and the target market you wish to serve. Analyze the competition and look for gaps in the market that your skills and knowledge can fill.

2. Develop your unique value proposition: 

Craft a clear and compelling statement that sets you apart from your competitors, showcasing your unique skills, expertise, and the benefits you bring to clients.

3. Build a strong professional network: 

Leverage your existing connections, attend industry events, and join professional associations and online communities. Foster relationships with potential clients, partners, and influencers in your industry.

4. Create a comprehensive business plan: 

Outline your goals, strategies, and timeline for growth. Assess your financial needs and create a budget. Identify potential risks and develop contingency plans to address them.

5. Develop a strong brand identity: 

Create a logo, website, and other marketing materials that reflect your unique value proposition and expertise. Build a professional online presence to showcase your skills and attract potential clients.

6. Market your services: 

Utilize social media, content marketing, and networking to reach potential clients. Consider targeted advertising and public relations efforts to further establish your reputation and generate leads.

7. Cultivate strong client relationships: 

Prioritize delivering exceptional value through high-quality work and results. Maintain clear communication and set expectations from the start of each engagement. Solicit feedback from clients and refine your approach to better meet their needs.

8. Continuously improve your skills and knowledge: 

Stay up-to-date with industry trends and advancements. Attend workshops, conferences, and other professional development opportunities to enhance your expertise and maintain your competitive edge.

9. Monitor your progress and adjust your strategy: 

Regularly review your business plan and assess your progress toward your goals. Be prepared to adjust your strategies as needed to ensure the continued growth and success of your consulting firm.

Conclusion

The world needs skilled professionals like you to step up as consultants. By starting your own consulting firm, you can reap the rewards of flexibility, financial success, personal growth, and industry recognition. The benefits of becoming a consultant are numerous and compelling, offering a dynamic and fulfilling career path that goes beyond traditional employment.

Taking the leap of faith to start a consulting firm may seem intimidating, but with careful planning and determination, you can overcome the challenges and achieve success. The potential rewards, both personally and professionally, are immense, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on businesses and industries around the world is invaluable.

Embrace your expertise, take the plunge, and become the consultant the world needs. By doing so, you'll unlock a world of opportunity, growth, and fulfillment that you may never have thought possible. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards are worth the effort. So, go ahead, become a consultant, and make your mark on the world!

Essential Documents for Consultants

Introduction

As a consultant, juggling a variety of documents is an everyday aspect of running your business. From creating quotes to keeping tabs on expenses, managing documents effectively is vital for ensuring your consulting venture thrives. 

In this blog post, we'll delve into the significance of essential documents for consultants, their purposes, and how adept handling of these documents can simplify your workflow and propel your business forward.

Quotes

A quote is a detailed proposal that outlines the scope of a project, estimated costs, and timelines. It serves as the foundation for your business relationship with a client. Crafting a professional and accurate quote is essential to set expectations, build trust, and secure contracts. Ensure that your quotes are clear, comprehensive, and tailored to each client's specific needs.

Key Elements of a Quote

Expense Report

Expense reports are crucial for tracking project-related expenditures, such as travel, meals, and supplies. Accurate expense reporting helps you monitor project budgets, evaluate the profitability of each project, and ensure tax compliance. Implement a standardized expense reporting system to maintain transparency and consistency across your consulting practice.

Key elements of an Expense Report

Sales Order

A sales order is a document that confirms the details of a client's purchase and authorizes the commencement of a project. It includes information about the services to be provided, pricing, and terms of payment. Sales orders serve as an essential reference for both the consultant and client, ensuring that both parties are aligned on project expectations and deliverables.

Key elements of a Sales Order

Purchase Order

Purchase orders are formal requests for goods or services from vendors or subcontractors. They are essential for managing project-related purchases and ensuring that you receive the correct items at the agreed-upon prices. Proper management of purchase orders can help you avoid overspending, maintain accurate financial records, and streamline your procurement process.

Key Elements of a Purchase Order

Invoice

Invoices are documents that detail the services provided, associated costs, and payment terms for a completed project. Timely and accurate invoicing is critical for maintaining healthy cash flow and building a strong reputation for professionalism. Use a standardized invoicing system to ensure that your invoices are clear, detailed, and easy for your clients to understand.

InvoiceSystemX

Key elements of a Purchase Order

Weekly Timesheet Report

A weekly timesheet report is an essential tool for tracking billable hours and project progress. It provides a clear record of the time spent on specific tasks and projects, ensuring that you can accurately invoice clients and monitor the efficiency of your workflow. Implement a system for logging and reviewing billable hours to maximize productivity and maintain transparency with your clients.

Key Elements of a Timesheet Report

Company Directory

A company directory is a comprehensive list of your team members, their contact information, and their roles within your consulting practice. It serves as a valuable reference tool for fostering collaboration, communication, and accountability among your team. Keep your company directory up to date and easily accessible to ensure smooth operations and efficient teamwork.

Company Directory

Key elements of a company directory

Client Directory

A client directory is a database of your clients' contact information, project details, and communication history. Maintaining an organized and updated client directory allows you to nurture relationships, provide personalized service, and identify opportunities for additional projects or referrals. Invest in a client relationship management (CRM) system to streamline your client directory management and enhance your consulting practice.

Key elements of a client directory

Conclusion

Effective document management is essential for a successful consulting business. By understanding the importance of key documents and implementing efficient systems for managing them, you can streamline your workflow, ensure accuracy, and focus on delivering exceptional value to your clients. Stay organized, stay informed, and watch your consulting business thrive. To further enhance your document management capabilities, consider utilizing SystemX, a powerful software solution that can generate and manage all the essential documents mentioned above. Give SystemX a try and experience the benefits of seamless document management tailored specifically for consultants.

Consulting 101: A Comprehensive Guide to Success

Introduction

The world of consulting can be both rewarding and challenging. A key aspect of a successful consulting practice is understanding the consulting client lifecycle. This lifecycle encompasses the entire journey with a client, from the initial contact to the completion of a project and beyond. In this guide, we'll explore the 8 main steps of the consulting client lifecycle and provide valuable insights to help you navigate this process effectively. By understanding and mastering these steps, you'll be well on your way to building a thriving consulting practice.

Getting Your First Client

Landing your first client is a major milestone in your consulting journey. To achieve this, start by identifying your target market and defining the unique services you offer. Use networking events, social media, and online platforms to connect with potential clients and showcase your expertise. Offer valuable insights and resources, such as blog posts or webinars, to demonstrate your knowledge and establish credibility. Finally, maintain communication with your network and follow up on any leads or opportunities.

Procuring Business

Once you've identified a potential client, it's crucial to understand their needs and pain points. Present your expertise and value proposition in a compelling manner, tailoring your approach to address the client's specific challenges. Work with the client to develop a solution that meets their needs, and negotiate terms to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.

Generating a Quote

With a clear understanding of the project scope and requirements, you can now prepare a quote for your client. Estimate the project timeline, calculate costs, and determine your pricing strategy. Be sure to factor in contingencies and risks, and present a transparent, professional quote that clearly outlines the deliverables and associated costs.

Delivering the Project

After the client accepts your quote, it's time to put your plan into action. Develop a detailed project plan and timeline, allocate resources, and assemble the right team to ensure the project's success. Regular communication with your client is essential, as it allows you to provide updates on progress and address any concerns promptly. Monitor the project's progress and make necessary adjustments to keep things on track, ensuring you deliver the project on time and within budget.

Accounting for Time

Tracking billable hours and project expenses is crucial for managing your consulting business effectively. Use time management tools and techniques to monitor the work being done, and review time allocation as needed to ensure maximum efficiency. Regularly updating your client on your progress and the time spent on their project will help maintain transparency and trust.

Sending the Invoice & Receiving Payment

Upon the successful completion of the project, it's time to send your client an invoice. Prepare a clear, detailed invoice that includes all relevant project expenses and payment terms. Send the invoice promptly to ensure timely payment, and follow up on any overdue payments in a professional manner.

Once your client pays the invoice, confirm receipt of the payment and document it for your financial records. Maintain professional communication with your client throughout the payment process to ensure a positive and lasting relationship.

Building Long-Term Client Relationships

As the project comes to a close, it's important to nurture your relationship with the client for potential future business. Request feedback and testimonials to help improve your services and attract new clients. Offer ongoing support and services, and identify any additional projects or opportunities with the client. Keep the lines of communication open and stay connected to ensure a long-lasting and fruitful partnership.

Conclusion

Understanding the consulting client lifecycle is vital for a successful consulting practice. By mastering the steps outlined in this guide, you'll be better equipped to land new clients, deliver exceptional results, and build lasting relationships. Embrace the journey, and watch your consulting business grow and thrive.

If you’d like to streamline this process even further, try SystemX risk-free for 14 days and see how effortless running your business can be. 

How to Track Time as a Freelancer: Boost Your Productivity with SystemX

Introduction

As a freelancer, time is one of your most valuable assets. Effectively managing and tracking your time can be the key to success in your freelance career. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of tracking time as a freelancer and introduce you to SystemX, a software solution designed to help you stay on top of your projects and manage your time more efficiently.

The Benefits of Time Tracking for Freelancers

Improved productivity: By tracking your time, you become more aware of how you spend your days, enabling you to identify areas where you can improve your productivity and focus on your most important tasks.

Accurate billing and invoicing: Time tracking allows you to charge clients fairly for your work and provide clear, detailed invoices that demonstrate your professionalism.

Better work-life balance: When you have a clear understanding of how you spend your time, you can set boundaries and allocate time for personal and professional pursuits, leading to a healthier work-life balance.

Key Features of an Ideal Time Tracking Software

When selecting a time tracking tool, consider the following features:

Ease of use: The software should be user-friendly and easy to navigate, allowing you to quickly input and review your time data.

Customizability: The tool should be customizable to accommodate your unique workflow and preferences.

Integration with other tools: Look for software that can integrate with your existing project management and invoicing tools to streamline your processes.

Reporting capabilities: Choose a tool with comprehensive reporting features that allow you to analyze your time data and make informed decisions about your freelance business.

Explore SystemX's features to find the perfect fit for your needs.

How to Choose the Right Time Tracking Method for Your Business

Manual time tracking methods, such as spreadsheets and physical timesheets, can be time-consuming and error-prone. On the other hand, business management tools like SystemX, offer numerous advantages, including accuracy, efficiency, and real-time insights. 

Aside from making it easy to track billable hours, SystemX simplifies your business operations with invoicing, project management, electronic signing capabilities, and many more features essential to running an organized freelance and consulting business. The best part is it’s  all in one program!

Want to try it yourself? Click here to get started on a 14 day free trial

How to Implement Time Tracking with SystemX

Getting started with SystemX: Sign up for a free trial to explore the features and benefits of SystemX.

Setting up projects and tasks: Organize your work into projects and tasks within SystemX for easy tracking and reporting.

Tracking time with SystemX's timer or manual entry: Choose between using the built-in timer or manually entering your hours.

Generating reports and invoices: Use SystemX's reporting features to analyze your time data and create professional invoices for your clients.

Sign up for a free trial of SystemX to get started on your time tracking journey.

Tips for Effective Time Tracking as a Freelancer

Set realistic goals and deadlines: Establish achievable targets for your projects to stay motivated and focused.

Break projects into smaller tasks: Divide your projects into manageable tasks to simplify tracking and improve productivity.

Be consistent in tracking time: Make a habit of recording your time daily to maintain accuracy and develop a clear understanding of your work patterns.

Review and adjust your process regularly: Use SystemX's analytics to optimize your time management and make necessary adjustments to your workflow.

How SystemX Can Support Your Business Growth

Better client communication and transparency: SystemX's detailed reports allow you to keep clients informed of your progress, fostering trust and transparency.

Increased trust and credibility: Accurate time tracking demonstrates your professionalism and helps you build a strong reputation in your field.

Stop revenue leakage: Ensure that billable hours are not missed and maximize profitability through organized time tracking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, time tracking is an essential aspect of managing your freelance career. It not only helps you boost productivity but also ensures accurate billing, improves work-life balance, and supports business growth. SystemX offers a comprehensive solution for freelancers seeking to optimize their time management and enhance their professional credibility.

Don't wait any longer; start tracking your time more efficiently and effectively with SystemX. 

Sign up for a free trial and experience firsthand the benefits of using an automated time tracking tool tailored to the unique needs of freelancers and consultants.