Celtx - Detailed Review
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Celtx - Detailed Review Contents
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Celtx - Product Overview
Introduction to Celtx
Celtx is a versatile and comprehensive screenwriting software that streamlines the entire scriptwriting and pre-production process. Here’s a breakdown of its primary function, target audience, and key features:Primary Function
Celtx serves as a creative hub that goes beyond just screenwriting. It is a multifaceted tool that helps in scriptwriting, storyboarding, scheduling, budgeting, and project coordination. This makes it an essential tool for managing the entire production workflow from script to screen.Target Audience
Celtx is designed for a wide range of creative professionals, including screenwriters, filmmakers, advertising and marketing agencies, event planners, educators, and freelance content creators. It is particularly useful for video production companies, stage play productions, video game companies, and even YouTube content creators and streamers.Key Features
Scriptwriting Tools
Celtx offers automatic formatting, multi-format support (screenplays, stage plays, audio, comics), and a user-friendly interface that helps both beginners and professionals focus on their creative work.Storyboarding Integration
The software allows you to transform scripts into visual stories, facilitating flexible communication with your team during pre-production.Real-Time Collaboration
Celtx enables real-time collaboration, ensuring that all team members are on the same page. This feature enhances workflows, creativity, and feedback cycles.Resource Library
You can maintain detailed character bios, location files, and other project notes centrally, keeping vital context aligned with your creative intentions.Pre-Production Capabilities
Celtx includes tools for scheduling, budgeting, and scene breakdowns. It also offers shared calendars to synchronize timeframes with all team members, ensuring a smooth production experience.Cloud Access and Version Control
Your work is accessible from any device, and the software provides version tracking to store past drafts. This allows you to go back, refine insights, and never lose any snippet of inspiration.AI-Driven Insights
Celtx analyzes scripts to provide suggestions for improving plot structure, character development, and formatting issues, helping to refine your screenplay.Budgeting and Scheduling
Detailed budgeting tools and visual timelines help optimize schedules, align creative dreams with financial realities, and minimize downtime. Overall, Celtx is a comprehensive tool that integrates all facets of production into a cohesive workspace, making it an invaluable resource for a variety of creative projects. Celtx - User Interface and Experience
User Interface Overview
The user interface of Celtx is characterized by its comprehensive and feature-rich design, which can be both intuitive and somewhat busy for new users.
Interface Overview
Celtx presents a lively interface packed with various tools and features. Upon opening the application, you are greeted with a toolbar that offers quick access to different functions such as scriptwriting, title pages, and media integration. This toolbar is dynamic, meaning it changes based on the tool you select, and sometimes it may take you to a completely different page, such as when you click on “Title Page.”
Ease of Use
While the interface can seem busy at first glance, Celtx is generally easy to use, especially for those familiar with screenwriting software. The application includes automatic formatting tools that keep your script in industry-standard format, which simplifies the writing process and reduces the time spent on manual formatting.
Real-Time Collaboration
One of the standout features of Celtx is its real-time collaboration capability. This allows multiple users to work on the same script simultaneously, with features like comment fields and real-time feedback, making it ideal for team projects.
Accessibility and Organization
Celtx is cloud-based, allowing you to access your projects from any device with an internet connection. This cloud-based access ensures that all your drafts, character sketches, and notes are centralized and easily accessible. However, it’s worth noting that offline access is limited to users with a free trial or paid subscription.
User Experience
The overall user experience is enhanced by the all-in-one nature of Celtx, which integrates scriptwriting, storyboarding, scheduling, and budgeting into a single platform. This integration simplifies the workflow and keeps all aspects of the project organized in one place. Users appreciate the simplicity and ease of loading the program, as well as the ability to work on scripts from anywhere.
Feedback and Support
Users have generally positive feedback about the collaborative tools and the ease of use, although some have mentioned occasional issues such as internet connection errors and a preference for an offline mode without subscription limitations.
Conclusion
In summary, Celtx offers a feature-rich interface that, while it may take some time to get accustomed to, provides a streamlined and efficient experience for screenwriters, especially those working in collaborative environments.
Celtx - Key Features and Functionality
Celtx Overview
Celtx, a comprehensive screenwriting and pre-production software, offers a range of features that significantly enhance the writing and production process. Here are the key features and how they work, including the integration of AI:
Scriptwriting Tools
- Auto-Formatting: Celtx automatically formats your script to industry standards, saving you time and ensuring your work looks professional. This feature allows you to focus on crafting your story rather than worrying about formatting.
- Multi-Format Support: You can write scripts for various formats, including screenplays, stage plays, audio scripts, and comics. This versatility expands your creative scope and makes it easy to switch between different types of projects.
Collaboration and Real-Time Feedback
- Read Through: This feature enables real-time script read-throughs within the platform. You can assign roles to collaborators or use automated voices to assess pacing, dialogue flow, and character dynamics. This helps in identifying errors, awkward phrasing, and ensuring distinct character voices.
- Live Tracking of Changes: With this feature, you can see updates in real-time as collaborators edit, comment, or refine your script. It prevents overlapping edits, fosters seamless communication, and maintains a clear record of changes made by each team member.
Version Control and Draft Management
- Script Drafts: Celtx allows you to track and compare multiple revisions of your script. You can save every draft, revert to earlier versions, and analyze how edits impact your story. This feature is particularly useful for managing feedback from multiple collaborators.
Script Analysis and Insights
- Script Insights: This feature provides detailed analytics on your script, including scene length, dialogue distribution, and character screen time. It helps in identifying pacing issues, ensuring main characters get enough screen time, and spotting dialogue imbalances. The insights are presented in easy-to-read pie charts and color-coded lists.
AI-Driven Insights
- AI Analysis: While not extensively detailed in the sources, Celtx’s AI-driven insights help in analyzing scripts to provide suggestions for improving plot structure, character development, and formatting issues. This feature is part of the broader analytical tools that help refine your work.
Storyboarding Integration
- Storyboarding: Celtx allows you to transform your scripts into visual stories with its storyboarding features. You can quickly populate storyboards using an extensive image library, cutting down on time spent researching visual sources. AI tools can assist in generating rough drafts and suggesting layouts, but the final creative control remains with you.
Pre-Production Tools
- Scheduling: Celtx offers visual timelines to optimize your schedules, minimizing downtime and maximizing efficiency. Detailed budgeting tools ensure that your creative plans align with financial realities.
- Scene Breakdown: You can define scenes concisely with essential details such as actors, locations, and props. This complete overview helps anticipate production day challenges.
- Shared Calendars: The platform allows you to synchronize timeframes with all team members, ensuring no surprises and seamless integration with other project elements.
Cloud Access and Task Management
- Cloud Access: Your work is accessible from any device, ensuring continuous writing without interruptions. This cloud-based access maintains security and allows you to work from anywhere.
- Built-in Task Management: Celtx includes task lists, deadlines, and progress updates, all under one roof. This time-saving organization helps you focus on creativity rather than logistics.
Integration and Automation
- While there isn’t a pre-built Celtx connector, the platform can be integrated with other services using universal connectivity options like the HTTP Client, Webhook Trigger, and the Connector Builder. This allows for data exchange and automation with other SaaS applications and services.
Conclusion
In summary, Celtx integrates AI and traditional tools to streamline the screenwriting and pre-production process. It offers real-time collaboration, detailed script analysis, and efficient pre-production tools, all designed to enhance your creative workflow and productivity.
Celtx - Performance and Accuracy
Performance
Celtx is a versatile tool that offers a wide range of features, including screenwriting, storyboarding, scheduling, and budgeting. However, its performance can be inconsistent at times:
- Some users have reported issues with the software being slow or buggy, particularly when dealing with larger scripts.
- The cloud-based nature of Celtx, while facilitating collaboration, also means it has limited offline functionality, which can be a significant drawback for users who need to work without internet access.
Accuracy
In terms of accuracy, Celtx generally performs well but has some areas that require attention:
- The software provides industry-standard formatting and various templates for different types of scripts, which helps maintain accuracy in scriptwriting.
- However, some users have experienced compatibility issues when exporting files to other formats, which can be problematic when sharing scripts with industry professionals.
Collaboration and Real-Time Features
Celtx is praised for its real-time collaboration features, allowing multiple users to work on a script simultaneously. However:
- Setting up the collaborative feature can be difficult, especially for larger teams, and may not work seamlessly for all users.
Interface and Learning Curve
The interface of Celtx, while user-friendly in many aspects, can also be overwhelming due to the sheer number of features:
- New users may find it takes some time to learn how to use all the features effectively.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
- Advanced Features: Celtx lacks some of the advanced features found in other scriptwriting software like Final Draft, which might be a limitation for more experienced writers.
- Free Version Restrictions: The free version of Celtx has limited access to certain features, requiring users to upgrade to a paid version to access the full range of functionalities.
- Crashing and Freezing: Some users have reported issues with the software crashing or freezing, which can disrupt the writing process.
In summary, while Celtx is a solid choice for scriptwriting and pre-production planning, especially for beginners or those on a budget, it has some performance and accuracy issues that need to be addressed. Improvements in stability, compatibility, and ease of use would enhance the overall user experience.
Celtx - Pricing and Plans
The Pricing Structure of Celtx
The pricing structure of Celtx, a comprehensive writing and production tool, is segmented into several plans, each with distinct features and pricing.
Plans and Pricing
Scriptwriting Plan
- Starting Price: $7.50 per month (or $10 per month for the first three months, and then $7.50 per month for the first year).
- Features: Includes industry-standard script editing, script breakdown, and other basic scriptwriting tools.
Video Production Plan
- Starting Price: $10.00 per month (or $15 per month for the first three months, and then $10 per month for the first year).
- Features: Adds video production tools such as storyboarding, shot lists, and scheduling.
Game Production Plan
- Starting Price: $10.00 per month (or $15 per month for the first three months, and then $10 per month for the first year).
- Features: Includes tools specific to game development, such as game design documents and character profiles.
Video & Game Production Plan
- Starting Price: $17.50 per month (or $25 per month for the first three months, and then $17.50 per month for the first year).
- Features: Combines the features of both video and game production plans, offering a comprehensive suite for multimedia projects.
Celtx Pro Custom Plan
- Pricing: Custom pricing based on the customer’s request.
- Features: Offers advanced features and administrative controls, suitable for larger teams and enterprises.
Free Options
- Free Trial: Available for various plans, allowing users to test the features before committing to a purchase.
- Free Version: There is no permanent free plan, but some sources suggest a limited free version might be available, though this is not clearly confirmed by the primary sources. The primary sources indicate no free plan beyond the trial period.
Additional Notes
- Celtx also offers add-ons and custom plans for education, which can be tailored to specific needs.
- The pricing and features may have changed since the last update, so it is recommended to check the official Celtx website for the most current information.
Celtx - Integration and Compatibility
Integration and Compatibility of Celtx
Cloud Integration and Accessibility
Celtx is a cloud-based platform, which allows for seamless access and updates to your scripts across various devices. You can work on your projects through desktop or laptop browsers, and also access them on mobile devices using browsers like Safari on iPhone or Chrome, Firefox, or Edge on Android.Device Compatibility
Celtx offers broad compatibility across different devices. The platform is primarily web-based but extends its capabilities to mobile devices, enabling you to edit and manage projects from virtually anywhere. There is also a dedicated Celtx Screenplay app available for Windows computers and all Android devices, which can be downloaded or installed directly from the Online Studio.Collaboration Features
Celtx facilitates real-time collaboration through its cloud-based Script Editor. You can share projects with colleagues, and they can collaborate on scripts depending on the permissions assigned. This feature allows multiple users to work on a project simultaneously, with presence awareness and the ability to leave comments and media tags.Pre-Production and Production Management Tools
Celtx integrates various pre-production and production management tools, such as the Beat Sheet, Breakdown, Catalog, Budget, Schedule, and Shot List. These tools help in planning and managing the next stages of your project, although the free plan has limitations on the number of items you can create for each tool.File Compatibility and Export
Celtx supports script import, including PDF compatibility, and allows you to export your scripts in industry-standard formats. This includes features like customizable title pages, script settings, and the ability to generate PDFs with your scripts.Platform-Specific Considerations
While Celtx is widely accessible, there are some platform-specific considerations. For example, the mobile version of Celtx is available on Android and iOS, but some users have noted that the iOS version is more polished, and there is no Android version for working on the road in the same way.Conclusion
In summary, Celtx offers strong integration with various tools and devices, making it a versatile option for screenwriters and production teams. Its cloud-based nature ensures accessibility and real-time collaboration, while its compatibility across multiple devices and platforms enhances its usability. Celtx - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support
Celtx offers a 24/7 online Help Center that serves as a primary resource for users. This Help Center includes a wide range of FAQs, how-to guides, and troubleshooting tips to address common issues and questions. If you cannot find the answer to your question in the Help Center, you can submit a request form. The support team prioritizes these requests and ensures they are answered within less than 24 hours, excluding weekends.Additional Resources
Documentation and Guides
Celtx provides detailed documentation and guides to help users get started and make the most out of their subscription. The “Getting Started for Subscribers” guide, for example, walks users through setting up their studio, managing contacts, and using various project management features.How-To Series
The Celtx Help Center includes a how-to series that covers specific tools and features, such as storyboarding, budgeting, and script insights. These resources help users understand and utilize the full suite of pre-production tools available in the platform.Community and Forums
While the provided sources do not explicitly mention community forums, the comprehensive nature of the Help Center and the availability of detailed guides suggest that users have ample resources to resolve most issues without needing additional community support.Subscription Management
Users can manage their subscriptions, including changing plans, updating payment information, and canceling subscriptions, all through the Studio Management section of their account. This ensures that users have full control over their subscription and can make changes as needed.Educational Resources
For those looking to learn more about screenwriting and pre-production, Celtx’s features such as automatic formatting, story analysis, and feedback can serve as educational tools. Additionally, the software’s ability to generate characters and locations can provide a helpful starting point for writers. Overall, Celtx’s customer support and additional resources are structured to be user-friendly and accessible, ensuring that users can efficiently use the platform to enhance their screenwriting and pre-production processes. Celtx - Pros and Cons
Advantages of Celtx
Celtx is a versatile and comprehensive screenwriting software that offers several key advantages, making it a valuable tool for writers and production teams.Cloud Access and Collaboration
Celtx allows you to access your scripts from anywhere, provided you have an internet connection. This cloud-based access enables real-time collaboration, which is particularly useful for team projects. Multiple users can work on the same project simultaneously, leaving comments and making changes in real-time.Automatic Formatting and Multi-Format Support
The software automatically formats your script according to industry standards, saving you time and effort. It also supports various formats, including screenplays, stage plays, audio scripts, and comics, giving you the flexibility to work on different types of projects.Storyboarding and Pre-Production Tools
Celtx integrates storyboarding features, allowing you to transform your scripts into visual stories. It also includes tools for scheduling, budgeting, and scene breakdowns, which are essential for pre-production planning. These features help in optimizing schedules, managing budgets, and defining scenes with essential details.Resource Library and Version Control
The software provides a centralized resource library where you can maintain detailed character bios, location files, and other project notes. Additionally, it offers version tracking, which stores past drafts, enabling you to go back and refine your work.AI-Driven Insights
Celtx includes AI-driven tools that analyze your scripts to provide suggestions for improving plot structure, character development, and formatting issues. This helps in enhancing the overall quality of your writing.Beginner-Friendly Interface
The software has a user-friendly interface that is easy to use, even for beginners. It minimizes the time spent on figuring out complicated settings, allowing you to focus more on the writing process.Disadvantages of Celtx
While Celtx offers many benefits, there are also some notable drawbacks to consider.Offline Access Limitations
The free version of Celtx does not allow offline writing without an additional payment. This can be a significant limitation for users who need to work without an internet connection.Export Restrictions
In the free version, you can only export your scripts to PDF format and not to other text files or screenwriting software. This limited export capability can be restrictive for users who need more flexibility in sharing their work.Membership Payment Model
The full range of features and tools in Celtx requires a subscription, which may be a turnoff for some users who prefer a one-time payment or free access to all features.Feature Overload
For some users, the inclusion of extensive pre-production features might feel cluttered if they are only looking to focus on the writing aspect. This can make the interface feel overwhelming for those who do not need all the additional tools. By weighing these advantages and disadvantages, you can make an informed decision about whether Celtx is the right tool for your screenwriting and pre-production needs. Celtx - Comparison with Competitors
When comparing Celtx to other screenwriting and pre-production tools, several key features and differences stand out:
Celtx Unique Features
- Comprehensive Suite of Tools: Celtx stands out for its broad range of features that go beyond just scriptwriting. It includes tools for storyboarding, budgeting, scheduling, and project management, making it a one-stop solution for the entire production cycle.
- Real-Time Collaboration: Celtx offers robust real-time collaboration features, allowing multiple team members to work on scripts simultaneously. This enhances teamwork and feedback loops, making the writing and pre-production process more efficient.
- Cloud Access and Version Control: With cloud-based access, users can work on their projects from any device, and the version control feature ensures that all past drafts are stored and easily accessible.
- AI-Driven Insights: Celtx provides AI-driven suggestions for improving plot structure, character development, and formatting issues, which can be particularly helpful for both beginners and experienced writers.
Alternatives and Comparisons
WriterDuet
- Focus on Collaboration: WriterDuet is known for its exceptional real-time collaboration features, making it ideal for teams that need to work together closely on scripts. It has a more minimalist and intuitive interface, which can be less overwhelming for new users.
- Limited Production Tools: Unlike Celtx, WriterDuet does not offer as extensive a suite of production tools. It is more focused on the scriptwriting and collaboration aspects.
Final Draft
- Industry Standard: Final Draft is widely used in the film and television industry and is known for its automatic pagination and formatting to industry standards. It also offers real-time collaboration and features like Speech to Script and SmartType.
- Limited Pre-Production Tools: Final Draft does not provide the same level of pre-production tools as Celtx, such as budgeting, scheduling, and storyboarding.
Filmustage
- AI-Based Script Breakdown: Filmustage is an AI-based tool that specializes in script breakdown and scheduling. It is highly customizable and can integrate into any production workflow. However, it does not offer the full range of scriptwriting and pre-production tools that Celtx does.
- Visual Reference Board: Filmustage’s Visual Reference Board allows users to convert thoughts into visual images, which can be shared with the team, but it lacks the comprehensive scriptwriting features of Celtx.
Scrivener
- Writing Focus: Scrivener is a writing tool that combines the features of a typewriter, ring-binder, and scrapbook. It is highly regarded for its ability to help writers create their first drafts but does not offer the same level of pre-production tools as Celtx.
- No Real-Time Collaboration: Scrivener does not have the real-time collaboration features that are available in Celtx and other specialized screenwriting software.
Conclusion
Celtx stands out for its comprehensive approach to screenwriting and pre-production, offering a wide range of tools that cater to both scriptwriting and the broader production process. While alternatives like WriterDuet, Final Draft, Filmustage, and Scrivener have their own strengths, they often focus more narrowly on specific aspects of the writing or pre-production process. If you need a tool that integrates all facets of production from script to screen, Celtx is a strong choice. However, if your primary need is real-time collaboration or a more focused writing experience, alternatives like WriterDuet or Final Draft might be more suitable.
Celtx - Frequently Asked Questions
What is Celtx and what does it offer?
Celtx is a versatile screenwriting software that streamlines the entire scriptwriting and pre-production process. It offers a range of features including automatic formatting, industry-standard templates, multi-format support (for screenplays, stage plays, audio, and comics), storyboarding integration, real-time collaboration, and a resource library for character bios and location files.How much does Celtx cost?
Celtx offers several pricing plans. The basic Scriptwriting plan starts at $7.50 per month, with other plans such as Video Production, Game Production, and a combined Video & Game Production plan available at different price points. There is also a custom Celtx Pro plan based on the customer’s specific needs. Celtx does not offer a free plan, but it does provide a free trial.What are the key features of Celtx?
Key features of Celtx include:- Scriptwriting Tools: Auto-formatting and support for multiple formats like screenplays, stage plays, audio, and comics.
- Storyboarding Integration: Transform scripts into visual stories to facilitate communication with your team.
- Collaboration Flexibility: Real-time collaboration to keep everyone on the same page.
- Resource Library: Centralized storage for character bios and location files.
- Cloud Access: Access your work from any device.
- Built-in Task Management: Task lists, deadlines, and progress updates.
- Version Control: Track past drafts and refine insights.
- AI-Driven Insights: Analyzes scripts to suggest improvements in plot structure, character development, and formatting.
How does Celtx enhance screenwriting efficiency?
Celtx enhances screenwriting efficiency through several features:- Cloud Access: Allows continuous writing from any device.
- Built-in Task Management: Organizes tasks, deadlines, and progress updates.
- Version Control: Stores past drafts for easy reference and refinement.
- AI-Driven Insights: Provides suggestions for improving plot structure, character development, and formatting issues.
- Automatic Formatting: Maintains industry-standard formatting automatically, saving time on manual edits.
What pre-production tools does Celtx offer?
Celtx includes several pre-production tools:- Scheduling: Visual timelines to optimize schedules and minimize downtime.
- Budgeting: Detailed budgeting tools to align creative plans with financial realities.
- Scene Breakdown: Defines scenes with essential details like actors, locations, and props.
- Shared Calendars: Synchronizes timeframes with all team members to ensure seamless integration.
How does Celtx facilitate collaboration?
Celtx facilitates collaboration through:- Real-Time Collaboration: Allows multiple users to work on the same script simultaneously.
- Read Through: Enables real-time script read-throughs with assigned roles or automated voices.
- Script Drafts: Tracks and compares revisions without losing earlier work.
- Live Tracking of Changes: Ensures everyone on the team stays updated on changes.
What are some unique features of Celtx that other screenwriting software may not offer?
Celtx stands out with its comprehensive features that include storyboarding, scheduling, and budgeting, all within one platform. This integration simplifies the workflow and keeps everything in one place. Additionally, Celtx offers cloud-based access, a beginner-friendly interface, and affordability with flexible pricing plans.Does Celtx offer any AI-driven tools?
Yes, Celtx includes AI-driven tools that analyze scripts to provide suggestions for improving plot structure, character development, and formatting issues. This helps writers refine their scripts more efficiently.How can I use Celtx for different types of projects?
Celtx supports various formats such as screenplays, stage plays, audio scripts, and comics. It also has specific plans for video production and game production, making it versatile for different creative projects. The software’s tools, such as storyboarding and budgeting, are applicable across these different formats.Is Celtx suitable for both beginners and professionals?
Yes, Celtx is suitable for both beginners and professionals. Its user-friendly interface and automatic formatting make it accessible to newcomers, while its advanced features like real-time collaboration, version control, and AI-driven insights cater to the needs of seasoned writers and production teams. Celtx - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of Celtx
Celtx is a comprehensive and versatile screenwriting software that offers a wide range of features to streamline the scriptwriting and pre-production process. Here’s a detailed look at who would benefit most from using it and an overall recommendation.Key Benefits
- Scriptwriting Tools: Celtx provides automatic formatting, multi-format support (screenplays, stage plays, audio, comics), and storyboarding integration, making it ideal for both beginners and professionals.
- Collaboration: The software allows real-time collaboration, enabling multiple users to work on the same script simultaneously. This feature is particularly useful for teams and student filmmakers.
- Pre-Production Management: Celtx includes tools for scheduling, budgeting, and scene breakdowns, which help in optimizing pre-production planning and ensuring projects stay on track and within budget.
- Cloud Access: Being cloud-based, Celtx allows users to access their projects from any device, ensuring continuous writing without interruptions.
- Version Control and Script Drafts: The software provides version tracking, enabling users to save and compare multiple drafts of their scripts, which is crucial for refining the writing process.
Who Would Benefit Most
Celtx is beneficial for a variety of users:- Writers: Whether you are a novice or an experienced screenwriter, Celtx’s auto-formatting, multi-format support, and collaboration features make it an excellent tool for crafting and refining your scripts.
- Directors: The software’s tools for visualizing scenes with shot lists and seamless collaboration with the crew can significantly enhance the director’s workflow.
- Producers: The budgeting and scheduling tools help producers keep projects on track and under budget, making it an essential tool for production management.
Overall Recommendation
Celtx is highly recommended for anyone involved in the screenwriting and pre-production process. Here are a few key reasons:- Comprehensive Features: Celtx integrates all facets of production—from script to screen—into a cohesive workspace, making it a one-stop solution for writers, directors, and producers.
- Affordability and Accessibility: The software is cost-effective, offers bundles for various features, and is accessible on multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.
- User-Friendly Interface: Celtx has a beginner-friendly interface that requires minimal setup, allowing users to focus on their craft rather than figuring out complicated settings.