
Harvest - Detailed Review
Collaboration Tools

Harvest - Product Overview
Primary Function
Harvest is primarily a time-tracking software designed to help teams and individuals track their work hours, manage projects, and generate invoices based on the tracked time. It integrates seamlessly with a wide range of other business tools, making it an essential component of many workflows.Target Audience
Harvest’s target audience includes a broad spectrum of professionals and teams, particularly those in service-based industries. This includes freelancers, small businesses, and larger enterprises that need to manage time, projects, and client billing efficiently. Key users can be found in fields such as consulting, creative agencies, software development, and any other sector where accurate time tracking and invoicing are crucial.Key Features
Time Tracking
Harvest offers an intuitive and lightweight solution for tracking work hours and projects. Users can track time using timers or enter hours directly into a timesheet. This feature is accessible via both desktop and mobile apps, ensuring that time can be tracked from anywhere.Integrations
One of Harvest’s standout features is its extensive integration capabilities. It integrates with over 50 tools, including project management platforms like Asana and Trello, communication tools like Slack and Microsoft Teams, and accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero. These integrations enable users to track time directly from their favorite tools, streamlining workflows and reducing the need to switch between applications.Invoicing and Financial Management
Harvest allows users to convert tracked time and expenses into professional invoices, which can be sent to clients and paid online through integrations with Stripe and PayPal. The software also provides features for tracking expenses, managing budgets, and generating detailed financial reports.Reporting and Insights
Harvest offers powerful visual reporting that provides insights into budgets, team capacity, and project expenses. These reports help project managers keep projects on track and make informed decisions about resource allocation and budgeting.Team Management
The software includes features for team tracking, allowing managers to view raw timesheet data and ensure that projects are progressing as planned. Customizable permissions and automatic approvals help maintain data accuracy and security. In summary, Harvest is a comprehensive time-tracking and invoicing tool that enhances productivity by integrating with various business applications, providing accurate financial reporting, and simplifying team management. Its versatility and ease of use make it an invaluable asset for a wide range of professionals and teams.
Harvest - User Interface and Experience
User Interface of Harvest
The user interface of Harvest, a time tracking and invoicing tool, is characterized by its simplicity and clarity, which are key factors in its ease of use and overall user experience.
Interface and Layout
Harvest’s interface is clean and minimalist, with a well-organized dashboard that is divided into several straightforward tabs: Time, Expenses, Projects, Team, Reports, Invoices, Estimates, and Manage. This layout makes it easy for users to find and access the features they need quickly.
Ease of Use
The interface is intuitive, with a user-friendly design that minimizes errors. For example, starting and stopping the timer requires minimal clicks, and manual time entries are straightforward, allowing users to track time accurately even if they forget to start a timer. The timesheet view provides a clear overview of the entire week, although some users might find the lack of a monthly view and color coding for different clients, projects, and tasks to be a limitation.
Mobile App Experience
Harvest offers mobile apps for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, as well as a Chrome extension. The mobile app mirrors the web version, allowing users to manage projects and tasks seamlessly across devices. However, the mobile layout can feel cramped, and navigating between features may require more taps than the web version, which can slow down productivity. The app tracks time both online and offline, but other features require an active internet connection to sync data.
Integrations and Workflow
Harvest integrates well with popular project management tools like Asana and Trello, which enhances its usability. These integrations allow teams to track time directly from task cards, reducing the need to switch between applications and minimizing forgotten time entries. Real-time data synchronization ensures that project managers have an up-to-date view of project progress and resource utilization.
Accessibility and Notifications
While Harvest’s interface is clear and uses high-contrast colors, which can be helpful for users with visual impairments, it lacks dedicated accessibility features such as screen reader support, keyboard navigation, and customizable text sizes. Additionally, there is no centralized notification center on the desktop, although email notifications are available.
User Experience
The overall user experience is generally positive, with users appreciating the simplicity and ease of use. However, some users may find the interface a bit dated and bland compared to more dynamic interfaces offered by other tools. The setup process can be time-consuming, but once everything is set up, the system runs smoothly. The lack of alerts and reminders for employees to track time and the limited filtering options can be drawbacks for some users.
Conclusion
In summary, Harvest’s user interface is designed for simplicity and ease of use, making it accessible for a wide range of users. While it has some limitations, such as the lack of a monthly calendar view and limited accessibility features, its integrations with other tools and clear layout contribute to a generally positive user experience.

Harvest - Key Features and Functionality
Harvest Overview
Harvest, a time-tracking and invoicing tool, offers a range of features that enhance collaboration, productivity, and efficiency, particularly when integrated with other tools and AI-driven solutions. Here are the main features and how they work:Time Tracking
Harvest allows team members to start and stop timers with a single click across all devices. This feature ensures accurate recording of time spent on tasks and projects. Custom reminders can be set to help team members build the habit of tracking their time, preventing forgotten hours and lost productivity.Invoicing and Online Payments
Harvest automates the invoicing process by transforming tracked time and expenses into accurate invoices. Integrations with Stripe and PayPal enable businesses to accept online payments, streamlining the financial process.Reporting and Insights
Harvest generates detailed reports that provide insights into budgets, time spent, team capacity, expenses, and more. These reports help in financial monitoring, project planning, and resource allocation. For instance, Harvest can alert you if a project is in danger of exceeding its budget, helping you stay on track.Integrations with Other Tools
Harvest integrates with various software applications, including:CRM Tools
Integrations with Salesforce and HubSpot sync client data, project details, and time entries, providing a comprehensive view of client interactions and project progress. This integration helps in accurate billing and improved client relationship management.Accounting Software
Connections with QuickBooks and Xero automate financial data flow, simplifying invoicing and expense tracking. For example, the Harvest-Xero integration facilitates the seamless transfer of time entries and project expenses.Project Management Tools
Integrations with Asana, Trello, and Basecamp allow time tracking directly from project management platforms. This ensures accurate recording of task durations and provides insights into time allocation across initiatives.Communication Tools
Harvest integrates with Slack and Microsoft Teams, enabling team members to start timers, log time, and view project updates without leaving their communication tool. This simplifies time management and promotes accurate time tracking.Budgets and Cost Tracking
Harvest allows you to track budgets along with time spent on projects. It provides detailed cost tracking, showing how much each project costs to complete. This feature helps in financial planning and ensures that projects stay within budget.Expenses
Team members can add project expenses quickly, even attaching photos of receipts. This feature simplifies expense management and ensures all project-related expenses are accounted for.AI and Automation Integrations
While Harvest itself does not inherently include AI-driven features, it can be integrated with AI tools through platforms like Zapier:Zapier Integrations
Harvest can be connected with AI models like OpenAI (GPT-4, DALL-E, Whisper) through Zapier. This integration allows for automated reporting, data extraction, and transformation using AI models. For example, triggers from Harvest (like new invoices or expenses) can initiate actions in AI tools, such as summarizing reports or generating insights.Benefits of Integrations
These integrations enhance team productivity and performance by:- Improving efficiency and accuracy in tracking team progress and time spent on tasks.
- Providing enhanced visibility and transparency in team performance through consolidated data.
- Streamlining project management processes by combining time tracking, reporting, and communication tools in one platform.

Harvest - Performance and Accuracy
Performance and Accuracy of Harvest in Collaboration Tools
When evaluating the performance and accuracy of Harvest in the context of collaboration tools and AI-driven products, several key points stand out:Time Tracking Accuracy
Harvest is highly regarded for its accurate time tracking capabilities. It allows users to record and monitor individual and team hours across multiple projects, ensuring that time is tracked to the nearest minute. The tool offers a manual entry system, a timer, and the ability to allocate time to specific projects, all of which contribute to its accuracy.Integration Capabilities
Harvest integrates seamlessly with various popular tools such as CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot), accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Xero), project management platforms (e.g., Asana, Trello), and communication tools (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams). These integrations enable real-time data synchronization, automate workflows, and reduce manual data entry errors. This synergy enhances the accuracy of time tracking and project management.Reporting and Analytics
Harvest’s reporting features provide valuable insights through visual reports and data-driven analysis. This allows managers to identify areas for improvement, optimize resource allocation, and make informed decisions. The tool’s ability to generate instant reports helps in tracking project progress, managing budgets, and identifying potential bottlenecks or delays.User Interface and Usability
The user interface of Harvest is intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy to start and stop timers or enter time manually. However, there are some limitations, such as the timer continuing to run even when the computer is turned off, which can lead to inaccuracies. Additionally, managers can only approve or request modifications to timesheets, rather than making changes directly.Limitations and Areas for Improvement
Despite its strengths, Harvest has a few areas that could be improved:- Lack of GPS Tracking: Harvest does not offer GPS tracking, which can be a significant limitation for businesses that need to verify the location of their field workers.
- No Real-Time Alerts: There are no real-time alerts or notifications for when a project is approaching its budget limit or when overtime is incurred, which could lead to overspending or non-compliance with labor laws.
- Capacity Limits and Overtime: While Harvest allows setting capacity limits, it does not automatically notify users when these limits are exceeded or calculate overtime, which can be a drawback for some organizations.
Collaboration and Team Efficiency
Harvest fosters team collaboration by integrating time tracking into project management and communication tools. This integration ensures that time tracking becomes a natural part of the workflow, promoting accurate time tracking and improving project visibility. It also enhances transparency and accountability within teams by providing a clear picture of time invested in various project aspects.Conclusion
In summary, Harvest performs well in terms of time tracking accuracy and integration capabilities, but it has some limitations, particularly in areas such as GPS tracking, real-time alerts, and automatic overtime calculations. Addressing these limitations could further enhance its performance and accuracy in supporting team collaboration and productivity.
Harvest - Pricing and Plans
Harvest Pricing Overview
Harvest offers a straightforward and reasonable pricing structure, catering to various user needs, particularly in the areas of time tracking, invoicing, and project management.Free Plan
The Free Plan is ideal for individual freelancers or very small teams. Here are its key features and limitations:Key Features
- Users: Limited to 1 active person (archived people do not count).
- Projects: Limited to 2 active projects (archived projects do not count).
- Features: Includes essential features like time tracking, basic reporting, invoicing, and unlimited clients. However, it does not allow uploading a company logo, attaching files to invoices or estimates, or integrating with certain tools like QuickBooks Online or Asana.
Pro Plan
The Pro Plan is suited for startups, growing businesses, freelancers working with multiple clients, and businesses that use billable hours. Here are its key features:Key Features
- Users: Unlimited seats.
- Projects: Unlimited projects.
- Features: Includes all features from the Free Plan plus advanced reporting, team reporting, accounting and payment integrations, and scheduled phone support. It also supports customizable invoice templates, recurring and retainer invoices, and the ability to track payments directly within Harvest.
- Pricing: $12 per user per month when billed monthly, or $10.80 per user per month when billed annually.
Free Trial
Both the Free and Pro Plans offer a 30-day free trial, which includes access to all features without requiring a credit card. This allows users to test the service thoroughly before committing to a plan.Conclusion
In summary, Harvest’s pricing is structured to be cost-effective for small to medium-sized teams, with the Free Plan serving as a viable option for solo freelancers and the Pro Plan offering comprehensive features for larger teams and businesses.
Harvest - Integration and Compatibility
Integrations with Other Tools
CRM Integrations
Harvest integrates seamlessly with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools such as Salesforce and HubSpot. These integrations sync client data, project details, and time entries automatically, providing a comprehensive view of client interactions and project progress. For instance, integrating Harvest with Salesforce allows for the automatic creation of time entries based on tasks or opportunities in your CRM, eliminating double data entry and ensuring accurate billing.Accounting Software Integrations
Harvest connects with popular accounting platforms like QuickBooks and Xero. These integrations automate financial data flow, simplify invoicing, and streamline expense tracking. For example, the integration with Xero facilitates the seamless transfer of time entries and project expenses from Harvest to Xero, making invoicing and expense management more efficient.Project Management Integrations
Harvest integrates with project management tools like Asana, Trello, and Basecamp. These integrations enable time tracking directly from project management platforms, ensuring accurate recording of task durations. For example, the Asana-Harvest integration allows teams to start timers directly from Asana tasks, associating time entries with the correct project in Harvest, which enhances productivity and accurate project costing.Communication Tool Integrations
Harvest also integrates with communication platforms like Slack and Microsoft Teams. These integrations enable team members to start timers, log time, and view project updates without leaving their communication tool. The Slack-Harvest integration, for instance, allows users to manage timers and submit timesheets directly from Slack, making time tracking a natural part of the workflow.IFTTT Integrations
Using If This Then That (IFTTT), Harvest can be linked to various apps like Google Calendar, Dropbox, and Slack. These integrations help automate workflows, eliminate manual tasks, and enhance team efficiency. For example, starting a new timer in Harvest can automatically create a quick event in Google Calendar, and creating a task in Todoist can automatically add a new task to a Harvest project.Compatibility Across Different Platforms and Devices
Web and Application Compatibility
Harvest’s web interface is compatible with several web browsers, including Microsoft Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, and others, although the specific versions supported may vary. It also supports various web and application servers, ensuring broad compatibility across different web environments.Mobile and Desktop Compatibility
While Harvest itself does not have specific mobile apps, its integrations with tools like Slack and Asana, which have mobile apps, allow for mobile access to time-tracking features. On the desktop, Harvest can be used on any device with a compatible web browser, making it accessible across a range of operating systems.Custom Automations
The flexibility to create custom integrations using IFTTT allows users to tailor Harvest to their specific workflow needs, regardless of the devices or platforms they use. This ensures that Harvest can be adapted to fit various business environments and workflows. In summary, Harvest’s extensive integration capabilities and compatibility with various tools and platforms make it a versatile solution for businesses looking to streamline their workflows, enhance productivity, and improve efficiency across multiple functions.
Harvest - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support Channels
- Harvest provides a multi-tiered support system. For immediate issues, users can contact the support team through email or chat. They use tools like Zendesk for managing support tickets and communications.
- For technical issues, Harvest employs a system called the “Fireteam” and “Delta Force.” The Fireteam handles initial support queries and can often resolve issues without involving the development team. If the issue is more complex, it is passed to the Delta Force, a team of developers who specialize in investigating and fixing bugs.
Support Tools and Processes
- Harvest uses an internal task management app called Kaizen, as well as Errbit for automated bug notification. These tools help in tracking and resolving issues efficiently.
- For emergency situations outside of regular hours, Harvest maintains an open line of communication via GroupMe’s group texting service, ensuring prompt response from available team members.
Additional Resources
- Harvest has a dedicated support site where users can find answers to common questions and submit support tickets. This site is equipped with resources and FAQs to help users resolve issues on their own.
- The company also encourages feedback and suggestions from users on how to improve their support processes and tools, fostering a collaborative environment between the support team and the users.
Training and Documentation
- While specific detailed documentation or training resources are not explicitly mentioned, the support site and the use of tools like Zendesk indicate that users have access to guides and FAQs that can help them use Harvest’s products effectively.
Overall, Harvest’s customer support is structured to provide quick and effective solutions, leveraging a combination of technical expertise and efficient communication tools.

Harvest - Pros and Cons
Advantages
Seamless Integrations
Harvest integrates seamlessly with a variety of tools, including CRM systems like Salesforce and HubSpot, accounting software such as QuickBooks and Xero, and project management platforms like Asana, Trello, and Basecamp. These integrations automate data flow, reduce manual entry errors, and provide a comprehensive view of client interactions and project progress.Enhanced Productivity
Harvest allows team members to start timers, log time, and view project updates directly from their communication tools like Slack and Microsoft Teams. This integration simplifies time management and promotes accurate time tracking without the need to switch between applications.Comprehensive Reporting
Harvest offers detailed reporting features that provide accurate insights into hours worked, finances, and project budgets. These reports help in managing costs and profits effectively and adjusting budgets according to tracked hours.Efficient Invoicing and Billing
Harvest enables users to track time and generate invoices based on that time without leaving the platform. It also supports recurring custom invoices, payment via PayPal and Stripe, and automatic reminders for late payments.Resource Allocation and Project Management
Harvest’s integrations with project management tools help in optimizing resource allocation, providing real-time insights into project progress, and enabling accurate project estimates and budgeting. This helps in preventing burnout and keeping projects on track.Disadvantages
Cost
Harvest can be expensive, especially for larger teams or growing businesses, with a cost of $10.80 per user per month for the Pro plan, which may be a significant expense for many businesses.Lack of GPS Functionality
Harvest does not offer GPS functionality, which can be a dealbreaker for certain industries that require location tracking.Manual Timers
One of the significant downsides of Harvest is the reliance on manual timers, which can be easy to forget to start or stop. This can lead to inaccurate data and potentially missing out on billable hours.Minimal Automation in Time Categorization
Unlike some other time-tracking tools, Harvest does not offer extensive auto-time categorization features, which some users might find limiting.Summary
In summary, Harvest is a powerful tool for time tracking and project management, offering extensive integrations and comprehensive reporting. However, it comes with a higher cost and lacks certain features like GPS tracking and automated time categorization.
Harvest - Comparison with Competitors
When Comparing Harvest with Other Collaboration and Time-Tracking Tools
When comparing Harvest with other collaboration and time-tracking tools in the AI-driven product category, several key features and differences stand out.
Time Tracking and Integration
Harvest is renowned for its seamless integrations with popular project management tools like Asana, Trello, and Basecamp, as well as communication platforms such as Slack and Microsoft Teams.
- This integration allows teams to track time directly from project management platforms, ensuring accurate recording of task durations and providing real-time data synchronization.
- Harvest also integrates with other tools to embed time tracking into team conversations, simplifying time management and improving project visibility.
Unique Features of Harvest
- Comprehensive Reporting and Analytics: Harvest offers detailed reporting and analytics, enabling project managers to gain valuable insights into time allocation, resource utilization, and project progress. This data is crucial for accurate project estimates, budgeting, and resource allocation.
- Expense Management and Invoicing: Unlike some of its competitors, Harvest includes features for expense management and invoicing, making it a more holistic solution for teams that need to manage both time and financial aspects of their projects.
Alternatives and Competitors
- Toggl: Toggl is another popular time-tracking tool that offers similar functionality to Harvest, including time tracking and reporting. However, Toggl lacks the extensive invoicing and expense management features that Harvest provides. Toggl is more focused on simplicity and ease of use, making it a good option for teams that do not need the additional financial management features.
- ClickUp: ClickUp is an all-in-one project management tool that includes time tracking, task management, and reporting. While it offers a broader range of features than Harvest, it may be overwhelming for teams that only need focused time-tracking and integration capabilities.
AI-Driven Collaboration Tools
- Asana and Trello: These tools are primarily focused on task and project management but can be used in conjunction with time-tracking tools like Harvest. Asana and Trello are highly rated for their ease of use and ability to streamline workflows, but they do not offer the same level of time-tracking and financial management as Harvest.
- Slack and Microsoft Teams: These communication tools integrate well with Harvest but are not time-tracking tools themselves. They enhance team collaboration by allowing users to manage timers and submit timesheets directly from the communication platform.
Conclusion
Harvest stands out due to its strong integrations, comprehensive reporting, and additional features like expense management and invoicing. While tools like Toggl and ClickUp offer alternative solutions, Harvest’s unique blend of time tracking, project management integration, and financial management makes it a valuable choice for teams needing a seamless and efficient workflow. If your team requires a more specialized tool for task management or communication, combining Harvest with tools like Asana, Trello, Slack, or Microsoft Teams can provide a comprehensive collaboration solution.

Harvest - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Harvest
What are the key features of Harvest for time and expense tracking?
Harvest provides an easy-to-use time tracking feature where users can use timers or manually enter hours into a timesheet. This feature allows users to track time to specific clients and projects and add notes for easy recall. Additionally, Harvest includes expense tracking, enabling users to log expenses and attach receipts, making it easier to manage project costs.
How does Harvest facilitate team tracking and collaboration?
Harvest enables users to utilize raw timesheet data to keep their projects on track through intuitive visual reports. This feature serves as a visual memory of the team’s direction, helping project managers to ensure that projects are progressing as planned. It also helps in identifying potential issues such as burnout and overbooking by showing the tasks assigned to each team member.
Can Harvest be used for invoicing and payment management?
Yes, Harvest allows project managers to turn billable time and expenses into professional invoices and send them to clients. Users can see when clients have viewed the invoices and set up automatic payment reminders. This feature enables seamless payment processing and ensures that clients are billed accurately and on time.
How does Harvest help with scheduling and forecasting?
Harvest allows teams to organize their schedules into visual plans to better map out upcoming projects and allocate resources effectively. The tool shows project managers the tasks assigned to each member, helping to avoid burnout and overbooking. It also helps teams determine when new projects can be taken on and which members are available to handle them.
Is Harvest integrated with other tools and platforms?
Yes, Harvest can be integrated with various tools and platforms. For example, SyncHub provides a seamless connection between Harvest data and AI-optimized databases such as Snowflake, Redshift, or BigQuery, enabling the use of AI models with Harvest data.
How does Harvest support reporting and data analysis?
Harvest provides intuitive visual reports taken from the team timesheet, which help project managers keep their projects on track. These reports serve as a visual memory of the team’s direction and can be used to analyze team performance and project progress.
Can Harvest be used for forecasting future projects and resource allocation?
Yes, Harvest helps teams organize their schedules into visual plans to better map out upcoming projects. It allows project managers to see the tasks assigned to each member and determine when new projects can be taken on, as well as which members are available to handle them.
Is there support available for Harvest users?
Yes, Harvest offers a comprehensive Help Center that provides support for various aspects of the tool, including time tracking, reporting, and invoicing. Users can find detailed guides and contact support if needed.
Can Harvest be used by teams of different sizes?
Yes, Harvest is suitable for teams of all sizes. It offers features that can be scaled according to the needs of the team, whether it is a small team or a large organization.
How secure is the data stored in Harvest?
Harvest ensures the security of user data. For instance, when integrating with other platforms like SyncHub, the data is securely connected and synced into an AI-optimized database, ensuring that the data remains secure and up-to-date.
Are there any additional tools or features available from Harvest?
Yes, apart from the core features, Harvest also offers Forecast, which is a tool for planning a team’s time. Forecast helps in scheduling and forecasting team availability and workload.

Harvest - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of Harvest in the Collaboration Tools Category
Harvest is a comprehensive time-tracking and invoicing tool that integrates seamlessly with various business applications, making it a valuable asset in the collaboration tools category.
Key Benefits and Integrations
Harvest stands out for its extensive integration capabilities, which include:
- CRM Integrations: Harvest connects with CRM tools like Salesforce and HubSpot, synchronizing client data, project details, and time entries. This integration helps in accurate billing and improved client relationship management.
- Accounting Software Integrations: It integrates with accounting platforms such as QuickBooks and Xero, automating financial data flow, invoicing, and expense tracking. This reduces manual data entry errors and streamlines financial management.
- Project Management Integrations: Harvest works with project management tools like Asana, Trello, and Basecamp, allowing teams to track time directly from project tasks. This enhances project planning, resource allocation, and accurate project costing.
- Communication Tool Integrations: Integrations with Slack and Microsoft Teams enable team members to start timers, log time, and view project updates without leaving their communication platforms, simplifying time management and improving project visibility.
Who Would Benefit Most
Harvest is particularly beneficial for teams and businesses that need to streamline their workflows across multiple functions. Here are some key beneficiaries:
- Project Managers: Harvest’s integrations with project management tools provide real-time data on project progress and resource utilization, helping in informed decision-making and efficient resource allocation.
- Finance Teams: The automation of financial data flow with accounting software simplifies invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting, reducing errors and saving time.
- Client-Facing Teams: The integration with CRM tools ensures accurate client data and billing, improving client relationship management.
- Small to Large Enterprises: Any business looking to optimize their time-tracking, project management, and financial workflows can benefit from Harvest’s comprehensive integration capabilities.
Overall Recommendation
Harvest is a solid choice for businesses seeking to enhance their productivity and efficiency through integrated time-tracking and project management. Here are some points to consider:
- Detailed Reporting: Harvest offers thorough reporting features that provide accurate insights into hours worked and finances, helping in budget management and cost tracking.
- Automation and Integration: Its ability to automate workflows and integrate with various business tools makes it a versatile solution for streamlining operations.
- Cost Consideration: While Harvest is priced at $10.80 per seat per month, which may be steep for some businesses, its benefits in terms of time savings and error reduction can justify the cost for many.
In summary, Harvest is highly recommended for teams and businesses that value integrated time-tracking, project management, and financial automation. Its extensive integration capabilities and detailed reporting features make it an excellent tool for enhancing productivity and efficiency. However, the cost should be carefully considered based on the specific needs and budget of the business.