Troop Messenger - Detailed Review
Collaboration Tools
Troop Messenger - Product Overview
Introduction to Troop Messenger
Troop Messenger is a comprehensive team collaboration and communication platform that simplifies workplace interactions across organizations of all sizes. Here’s a brief overview of its primary function, target audience, and key features:
Primary Function
Troop Messenger is an all-in-one team collaboration tool that facilitates seamless communication, enhances productivity, and streamlines workplace interactions. It combines instant messaging, project management, video conferencing, and other collaborative features to keep teams connected and efficient.
Target Audience
Troop Messenger is designed for remote teams, businesses, and enterprises of all sizes. It is particularly beneficial for teams working in different geographical locations, as it enables seamless communication and collaboration regardless of the team members’ locations or devices.
Key Features
Storage and Accessibility
Troop Messenger offers extensive cloud storage, with 50 GB free and up to 1 TB available depending on your needs. This ensures unhindered communication and easy access to all your data.
Search and Group Management
The platform allows you to search for any user or group by name, and you can create unlimited groups to organize your workflow effectively.
Communication Tools
It includes features like voice notes, instant messaging, video calling, and screen sharing. This enables face-to-face interactions over projects, presentations, and other collaborative tasks.
Security and Compliance
Troop Messenger ensures end-to-end encryption, role-based access control, and optional on-premise deployment to maintain data privacy and compliance with regulations like GDPR.
Customer Support
The platform provides 24/7 customer support through live chat, email, and a comprehensive knowledge base. It also offers training resources to help users onboard quickly.
Analytics and Administration
Troop Messenger includes an administrator dashboard for easy supervision and access to individual and team collaboration. It also offers state-of-the-art reporting and analytics to track team performance.
File Sharing and Preview
You can share various file types, including text files, PDFs, PPTs, images, and videos, and preview them directly within the app to enhance productivity.
Unique Features
It includes features like self-destructing messages for sensitive information and a “Jointly Code” feature for developers to collaborate on coding projects within the chat interface.
Troop Messenger is a user-friendly and cost-effective solution that makes collaborative work easy and enjoyable, making it an excellent choice for businesses aiming to streamline their operations and enhance team productivity.
Troop Messenger - User Interface and Experience
User Interface of Troop Messenger
The user interface of Troop Messenger is crafted with a focus on simplicity, intuitiveness, and ease of use, making it an excellent choice in the collaboration tools category.Intuitive Interface
Troop Messenger boasts a minimalist layout and intuitive navigation, which makes it easy for new users to get started quickly. The interface is user-friendly, ensuring that even those who are not tech-savvy can use the platform without much hassle.Ease of Use
The app is designed to be highly accessible, available across multiple platforms including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. This cross-platform compatibility allows users to switch devices seamlessly without disrupting their workflow. The easy accessibility and straightforward onboarding process make it simple for individuals and teams to start using the app immediately.Key Features
Several features enhance the user experience:Advanced Search and Filters
Users can filter messages based on various categories such as images, videos, text files, locations, URLs, and more. This helps in quickly finding specific messages without getting lost in a large volume of conversations.Read Receipts and Message Tagging
Features like read receipts and message tagging improve the usability of the app, allowing users to track the status of their messages and prioritize their responses.Screen Sharing and Audio/Video Calls
The ability to initiate high-quality conference calls, share screens, and access the contents of another user’s screen enhances collaboration and communication. Users can also engage in audio or video calls while screen sharing, making presentations and discussions more effective.Security and Privacy
Troop Messenger prioritizes data security with end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and secure server options like on-premise deployment. These measures ensure that sensitive data is protected from unauthorized access, providing peace of mind for organizations handling confidential information.User Experience
The overall user experience is enhanced by the app’s ability to integrate with other collaboration tools such as Slack, Trello, and Zoom. This integration streamlines operations and boosts productivity, making Troop Messenger an indispensable tool for modern workplaces. The continuous introduction of new features and improvements based on customer feedback further enriches the user experience. In summary, Troop Messenger offers a seamless and intuitive user interface that is easy to use, highly secure, and packed with features that enhance team collaboration and productivity. Its user-friendly design and cross-platform compatibility make it an ideal choice for teams of all sizes. Troop Messenger - Key Features and Functionality
Troop Messenger Overview
Troop Messenger is a comprehensive team collaboration and communication platform that offers a wide array of features to facilitate seamless communication, enhance collaboration, and boost productivity. Here are the main features and their functionalities:
Instant Messaging
Troop Messenger allows users to send instant messages, ensuring quick communication between team members. This feature supports both one-on-one and group chats, enabling teams to share work updates, files, and other important information in real-time.
Audio and Video Calling
The platform offers high-quality voice and video calls, as well as face-to-face video conferences. This feature, known as “Cattle Call,” supports unlimited participants, although only six can have video access at a time. This facilitates effective communication and collaboration during meetings.
Group Chat and Forkout
Users can create unlimited group messages with unlimited members. The “Forkout” feature allows sending a message or attachment to multiple individual participants or groups simultaneously, streamlining team communication.
File Sharing
Troop Messenger enables users to share various types of files, including text files, PDFs, PPTs, images, videos, and URLs, across both one-on-one and group chats. Files can be previewed directly on the UI to enhance productivity.
Remote Screen Share
The screen sharing feature allows users to share their screen with remote team members and access the contents of their screen in real-time. This can be done while initiating audio or video calls, making it easier to demonstrate or explain documents, presentations, or videos.
Advanced Data Filters
The platform includes advanced data filters that allow users to filter messages based on various categories such as images, videos, text files, locations, URLs, read receipt tagged messages, flagged messages, and more. This helps in organizing and quickly finding specific messages.
Security and Encryption
Troop Messenger provides three levels of enterprise-grade security, including end-to-end encryption and Active Directory/LDAP integration. It also supports Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to ensure secure communication and protect intellectual property.
Self-Destructible Chats
The platform offers a “Burnout” feature for self-destructible private chats, which can be set with a pre-defined timer to ensure confidential information is not stored permanently.
Admin Controls and Audit Logs
Administrators have complete control over which features are available to users. The platform also provides audit logs to track application usage, which can be exported or connected to a Syslog server for further analysis.
Integration Capabilities
Troop Messenger can be integrated with various other tools and platforms, such as Whippy AI, using APIs. This integration allows for automated customer messaging and enhances internal communication and task management.
AI Integration
While Troop Messenger itself does not inherently include AI-driven features, it can be integrated with AI tools like Whippy AI. This integration enables the automation of customer messages using Whippy AI’s AI Agent Builder, thereby enhancing customer engagement and streamlining communication processes.
Conclusion
In summary, Troop Messenger is a versatile collaboration tool that combines instant messaging, audio and video calling, file sharing, screen sharing, and advanced security features to facilitate efficient team communication and collaboration. Its integration capabilities with AI tools further enhance its functionality in automating certain tasks and improving overall productivity.
Troop Messenger - Performance and Accuracy
Performance of Troop Messenger
Troop Messenger is highly regarded for its performance in the collaboration tools category, particularly in enhancing team communication and productivity.Real-Time Communication
Troop Messenger excels in providing instant messaging, audio, and video call capabilities, allowing teams to communicate in real-time. This immediacy fosters quick decision-making and problem-solving, which is crucial for maintaining project momentum.File Sharing and Collaboration
The platform facilitates seamless file sharing, ensuring all team members have access to the necessary resources. It supports various file types and allows users to upload and share files directly within chats, reducing the risk of miscommunication and ensuring everyone works with the most up-to-date information.Task Management
Troop Messenger includes task management features, enabling teams to create, assign, and track tasks within the same platform where communication occurs. This integration helps keep everyone accountable and ensures projects stay on track.Security and Data Integrity
The platform boasts world-class military-grade security protocols, including AES-256 encryption, LDAP/SSO, multi-factor authentication, and end-to-end encryption. These features ensure that chats, calls, conferences, and files are highly secure, which is particularly important for sensitive business communications.Customization and User Experience
Users appreciate the intuitive interface and the ability to customize the UI, such as changing chat backgrounds, fonts, and formats. This customization enhances user engagement and makes the platform more user-friendly.Integrations and Flexibility
Troop Messenger integrates with various external tools and applications, allowing teams to streamline their workflows without needing to switch between multiple platforms. However, some users have noted that it could improve in terms of connecting with a broader range of tools.Accuracy and Reliability
Data Records and Compliance
The platform ensures compliance with regulations like GDPR by providing accessible data records. It also offers unlimited message history, so crucial information is never lost.Analytics and Reporting
Troop Messenger provides a simple and cohesive administrator dashboard for state-of-the-art reporting and analytics, making it easy to supervise teams and track individual performance.User Feedback and Satisfaction
Customer reviews indicate a high level of satisfaction with Troop Messenger, with users praising its reliability, performance-enhancing features, and ease of use. The platform has a high likelihood to recommend and plan to renew rates among its users.Limitations and Areas for Improvement
Connectivity Issues
Some users have reported occasional connection problems or system crashes, which can be frustrating during critical work moments. Addressing these issues could further enhance the user experience.Integration with Other Tools
While Troop Messenger integrates well with several tools, some users find it lacking in terms of seamless integration with a wider range of applications. Improving this aspect could make the platform even more versatile.Cost and Pricing
Although Troop Messenger is generally cost-effective, especially for small teams, the pricing structure could be more transparent or flexible for larger or more complex organizations.In summary, Troop Messenger performs well in providing secure, real-time communication and collaboration tools, but it has some areas for improvement, particularly in terms of connectivity reliability and broader tool integration.
Troop Messenger - Pricing and Plans
Troop Messenger Pricing Overview
Troop Messenger offers a structured pricing system with several plans to cater to different business needs and sizes. Here is a breakdown of their pricing structure and the features included in each plan:
Premium Plan
Cost
$2.50 per user per month, or $30 per user per year.
Features
- One-to-one messaging
- Audio calling
- Unlimited group chats
- File sharing
- Global search
- Text search
- Chat area filters
- Orange Member (guest user access)
- Forkout (sending a single message to multiple users and groups)
- Guest user access controls
- Network status indicator
- Unlimited search history
- Advanced notifications
- Feature access controls through the admin dashboard
- QRP (Quick Response Panel)
- Wallpapers and themes (mobile)
- Delete and recall messages
- Attachment preview
- Message info
- One-to-one video calling
- Message forwarding
- Read and typing indicators
- Image editing and slideshow
- Live tracking
- Mute conversations
- Favourite users and groups
- Advanced video player
- Browser pop-up
- Group profile settings
- Fonts and formats
- Unread message filters
- App auto-start preferences
- Meta pop-up links
- Application user settings
- Image compression settings (mobile)
- In-app help
- Email and live chat support
- 50 GB storage
Enterprise Plan
Cost
$5.00 per user per month, or $60 per user per year.
Features
- All features from the Premium plan
- Remote screen sharing
- Group calling
- Unlimited video conferencing
- Burnout (incognito chat)
- Message edit
- Flagging
- Code snippet
- Airtime groups
- Group profile logs
- Contacts book
- Integration with Dropbox and Google Drive
- Jointly code
- LDAP/Active Directory/SSO
- Roles in the admin dashboard
- Mattermost migration tool
- Chat history deletion controls
- Call takeover
- 1 TB storage
Superior Plan
Cost
$9.00 per user per month, or $108 per user per year. (Note: This plan is listed as “coming soon” in some sources, but the features are outlined.)
Features
- All features from the Enterprise plan
- Remote desktop control
- Annotation and whiteboard
- Live dox
- Company logo
- Off-grid capabilities
- APIs
- Platform restrictions
- Contact authorization
- High availability
- Bridge call
- Multi-party tracking
- Outlook add-in
- Notify and SOS
- Trumpet
- SAML
- Archiving
- Various upcoming add-ons such as FileDeck, Mailtrim, Cattle Call (video/audio conferencing), Calendar, Time Dynamo online, To-Do Targets, and Click2Magic (customer support)
Custom Plans
Troop Messenger also offers custom plans tailored to specific industries or needs, such as defense communications, government, NGOs, politics, and education. These plans can include additional features and integrations based on the customer’s requirements.
Free Trial
While Troop Messenger does not offer a free plan, it does provide a free trial for its Premium and Enterprise plans, allowing users to test the features before committing to a subscription.
Summary
In summary, Troop Messenger’s pricing is structured to accommodate various business sizes and needs, with each plan offering a range of features to enhance team collaboration and communication.
Troop Messenger - Integration and Compatibility
Troop Messenger Overview
Troop Messenger is a comprehensive team collaboration platform that integrates seamlessly with a variety of tools and is compatible across multiple platforms and devices, making it a versatile solution for various business needs.Integrations
Troop Messenger integrates with a wide range of popular tools and applications to enhance team collaboration. Here are some key integrations:Project Management Software
Cloud Storage Solutions
Calendar Applications
Development Tools
Customer Support Tools
Video Conferencing Tools
Compatibility
Troop Messenger is highly compatible across various devices and platforms:Operating Systems
Browsers
Mobile Devices
Deployment Models
Troop Messenger offers different deployment models to cater to various organizational needs:SaaS Model
On-Premise Model
Custom Applications
Troop Messenger - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support
Troop Messenger offers 24×7 technical support, ensuring that you can get help anytime you need it. Here are the ways you can contact their support team:
- You can send an email to
support@troopmessenger.com, and the support team will contact you within 24 to 48 hours. - For registered users, there is also the option to contact the live support team directly.
- Additionally, you can call the support team for immediate assistance.
Feedback Mechanism
Users can provide feedback directly through the mobile app. To do this, you can click on the three dots in the top right corner, select “Feedback” from the drop-down menu, choose the type of feedback (Bug, Feature, Suggestions, or Other), describe your issue or suggestion, and even upload an image if necessary.
FAQ Section
Troop Messenger has a comprehensive FAQ section that is divided into several categories:
- App General FAQ’s: Answers generic questions about Troop Messenger.
- App Features: Provides an overview of all the features, including those under development.
- Group: Addresses questions related to creating and managing groups.
- Data Privacy: Covers questions about data privacy measures.
- Desktop Features: Discusses the features of the desktop version.
Additional Resources
- Audit Logs: You can use the Audit Logs module to get a clear picture of application usage. You can export these logs or connect them to a Syslog server for further analysis.
- User Guides and Tutorials: While the specific guides are not detailed in the sources, the FAQ section and the support options suggest that there are resources available to help users get started and troubleshoot issues.
- Language Support: Troop Messenger supports multiple languages, including English, Hindi, and Arabic, making it accessible to a broader user base.
Integrations
Troop Messenger integrates with various services to enhance its functionality. For example, it integrates with Google Drive, allowing you to access, share, and collaborate on files seamlessly.
By leveraging these support options and resources, you can ensure a smooth and productive experience with Troop Messenger.
Troop Messenger - Pros and Cons
Advantages of Troop Messenger
Troop Messenger offers several significant advantages that make it a valuable tool for team collaboration and communication:Enhanced Communication
Troop Messenger provides instant messaging, allowing team members to communicate in real-time, which is crucial for quick decision-making and problem-solving. It includes features like one-on-one messaging, group chats, and the ability to recall, copy, forward, and delete messages, making communication more efficient and flexible.Audio and Video Calls
The platform supports audio and video calls, enabling teams to hold virtual meetings and maintain face-to-face interactions, which is particularly beneficial for remote teams.File Sharing and Collaboration
Troop Messenger allows users to easily share files of various formats within chats, ensuring everyone has access to the necessary resources. This centralization reduces the risk of miscommunication and ensures that everyone is working from the most up-to-date information.Task Management
The platform includes task management features, enabling teams to create, assign, and track tasks directly within the application. This integration keeps everyone accountable and ensures projects stay on track.Security
Troop Messenger is designed with business-grade security in mind, offering end-to-end encryption, role-based access control, and optional on-premise deployment to ensure data privacy. It also features self-destructing messages for sensitive information, adding an extra layer of security.Integrations
The platform integrates with popular tools and applications, such as project management software, cloud storage solutions, and calendar applications. These integrations streamline workflows and reduce the need to switch between multiple platforms.User-Friendly Interface
Troop Messenger has a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for teams to communicate and collaborate. Features like profile management, location sharing, and attachment preview enhance the overall user experience.Mobile Accessibility
The mobile application allows teams to communicate anywhere and anytime, making it an efficient and time-saving solution for emergency situations or spontaneous discussions.Cost-Effective
Troop Messenger is cost-effective and offers customizable plans, making it an ideal choice for businesses of all sizes, especially small to medium-sized enterprises.Disadvantages of Troop Messenger
While Troop Messenger offers numerous benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:Learning Curve
Although the interface is user-friendly, some users might need time to familiarize themselves with the extensive range of features, which could initially slow down adoption.Feature Overload
With so many features available, some users might find it overwhelming to use all the functionalities effectively, potentially leading to underutilization of certain features.Dependence on Technology
Like any digital tool, Troop Messenger requires a stable internet connection to function optimally. Technical issues or connectivity problems could disrupt communication and collaboration.Limited Free Version
While Troop Messenger offers free trials for its plans, the free version may have limited features compared to the paid plans, which could restrict its usefulness for some users. In summary, Troop Messenger is a comprehensive collaboration tool that enhances communication, productivity, and security within teams. However, it may require some time for users to fully adapt to its extensive feature set, and it is dependent on reliable internet connectivity. Troop Messenger - Comparison with Competitors
When Comparing Troop Messenger with Other Collaboration Tools
In the AI-driven product category, several key aspects and unique features come to the forefront.
Unique Features of Troop Messenger
Troop Messenger stands out for its comprehensive set of collaboration tools, including:
- Instant Messaging and Audio/Video Calls: It offers one-on-one and group messaging, audio and video calls, and screen-sharing features, which are essential for real-time communication.
- Security and Customization: Troop Messenger provides end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and support for fingerprint and facial recognition. It also offers on-premise and self-hosted deployment options, which are particularly valuable for industries requiring high security, such as defense and government.
- Collaboration Tools: Features like the Jointly-Code editor, which allows multiple developers to collaborate on code during audio-video calls, and the Orange Member feature, which enables inviting external users like customers or vendors into the chat, enhance productivity and collaboration.
- Bulk Messaging and Group Management: The Forkout tool allows for bulk messaging to a high number of users or groups, and users can mark selected groups as favorites. Additionally, it has an Air-time Group chat for one-way broadcast messages.
Comparison with Competitors
Slack
Slack is known for its vibrant ecosystem of integrations and AI-powered features like message prioritization and automated responses. However, Slack’s pricing model can be complicated, and it may have scalability issues for large enterprises. Unlike Troop Messenger, Slack does not offer on-premise deployment options, which can be a limitation for highly secure environments.
Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams integrates AI capabilities such as real-time translation, transcription, and meeting insights. It also generates meeting summaries and action items. While Teams is strong in these areas, it lacks the on-premise deployment and high-security features that Troop Messenger offers, making it less suitable for certain industries.
Cisco Webex
Webex features AI-driven tools like real-time translation, virtual backgrounds, and automated meeting summaries. However, it does not match Troop Messenger’s level of security and customization options, particularly for on-premise deployments.
Trello and ClickUp
Trello and ClickUp are more focused on project management with AI-driven automation of repetitive tasks and smart suggestions. While they are excellent for streamlining workflows, they do not offer the same level of real-time communication and collaboration features as Troop Messenger.
Potential Alternatives
For teams that do not require the high-security and on-premise deployment options of Troop Messenger, the following alternatives might be considered:
- Microsoft Teams: Ideal for teams needing strong integration with Microsoft products and AI features like real-time translation and meeting insights.
- Slack: Suitable for teams that benefit from a wide range of integrations and AI-powered communication features, but may not need on-premise deployment.
- Cisco Webex: Good for teams that require robust video conferencing and AI-driven meeting tools, but do not need the same level of security as Troop Messenger.
In summary, Troop Messenger’s unique blend of high-security features, on-premise deployment options, and comprehensive collaboration tools makes it an excellent choice for industries that require secure, reliable, and efficient communication and collaboration. However, for teams with different needs, other platforms like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or Cisco Webex might be more appropriate alternatives.
Troop Messenger - Frequently Asked Questions
What is Troop Messenger and what is it used for?
Troop Messenger is a messaging and collaboration platform designed to facilitate and enhance communications within the workplace. It is intended for businesses of all sizes, from small and medium-sized companies to large enterprises, to optimize communication, increase collaboration, and boost productivity among team members.
What are the key features of Troop Messenger?
Troop Messenger offers a variety of features, including instant messaging, audio and video calls, screen sharing, virtual meetings, and file sharing. Additional features include message recall, copy, forward, and delete options, read receipts, location tracking, and advanced search capabilities. It also supports group chats, profile management, and a comprehensive dashboard for administrators.
How much does Troop Messenger cost?
Troop Messenger has three main pricing plans: Premium, Enterprise, and Superior. The Premium plan starts at $2.50 per user per month, the Enterprise plan is $5.00 per user per month, and the Superior plan is $9.00 per user per month. There are also custom plans available based on the customer’s specific needs. Free trials are available for all plans.
Does Troop Messenger offer a free plan?
No, Troop Messenger does not offer a free plan. However, it provides free trials for its various pricing plans, allowing users to test the service for a specified period before committing to a subscription.
What storage options are available with Troop Messenger?
Troop Messenger offers significant storage space. Users can start with 50 GB of free storage and upgrade as needed up to 1 TB. This ensures uninterrupted communication and file sharing within the team.
How does Troop Messenger support remote and hybrid work environments?
Troop Messenger supports remote and hybrid work environments through features like video and audio calls, screen sharing, and virtual meetings. These features enable face-to-face interactions and seamless communication among team members regardless of their location or device.
What kind of customer support does Troop Messenger offer?
Troop Messenger provides robust customer support through various channels, including live chat, email support, and a comprehensive knowledge base. Additionally, the platform offers training resources to help users onboard quickly and maximize their use of the software.
Can Troop Messenger be customized for specific industries or needs?
Yes, Troop Messenger offers custom plans and add-ons that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of different industries and organizations. This includes solutions for defense communications, political cadre management, non-profit organizations, education, and more.
How secure is Troop Messenger?
Troop Messenger emphasizes security and offers features such as SAML, archiving, and high availability to ensure that communications and data are secure. It also includes options like TM Monitor for compliance and user behavior tracking.
What add-ons and integrations are available with Troop Messenger?
Troop Messenger offers several add-ons, including FileDeck for file storage, TM Monitor for user chat history monitoring, Click2Magic for customer support, Time Dynamo for time and attendance management, and others. These add-ons can be integrated to enhance the functionality of the platform.
Is there a mobile app available for Troop Messenger?
Yes, Troop Messenger has mobile applications available, allowing users to communicate and collaborate efficiently from anywhere and at any time.
Troop Messenger - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of Troop Messenger
Troop Messenger is a comprehensive and feature-rich collaboration tool that is well-suited for businesses of all sizes, from small and medium-sized companies to large enterprises. Here’s a breakdown of its key strengths and who would benefit most from using it:Key Features
- Communication Tools: Troop Messenger offers a wide range of communication features, including instant messaging, one-on-one and group chats, audio and video calls, and screen sharing. It also includes advanced features like message recall, copy, forward, and burnout chats where messages vanish after a predefined time.
- Collaboration: The platform supports virtual meetings, joint code editing, and remote desktop control, making it ideal for team collaboration and project management. Users can share files, multimedia, and locations, and even invite external participants like customers or vendors into the chat.
- Security and Administration: Troop Messenger emphasizes security with end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and role-based access controls. It also offers features like audit logs and chat history deletion.
- Accessibility: The app is accessible via web, desktop, and mobile (Android and iOS), ensuring users can communicate and collaborate from anywhere.
Benefits
- Enhanced Productivity: By providing real-time communication and efficient collaboration tools, Troop Messenger helps reduce the time and effort required for team communication. It minimizes delays and allows for quick decision-making.
- Cost-Effective: The platform is cost-efficient, especially for businesses with distributed teams, as it reduces the need for lengthy email threads and other traditional communication methods.
- User-Friendly Interface: Troop Messenger has an intuitive and minimalist design, making it easy for users to onboard and use the platform effectively.
Who Would Benefit Most
Troop Messenger is particularly beneficial for:- Remote and Hybrid Teams: Teams spread across different locations can benefit from its video and audio calling, screen sharing, and real-time messaging features.
- Project Managers: The platform’s collaboration tools, such as joint code editing and file sharing, are highly useful for managing projects efficiently.
- Businesses of All Sizes: From small startups to large enterprises, Troop Messenger’s scalable features and pricing plans make it a versatile solution for various business needs.