The business services industry covers a broad range of operations, from consulting to administrative support. Almost every business in operation needs at least one of these services. These services include marketing, advertising, logistical support, waste handling and staffing. They can also offer strategic consultation and creative work, like content creation or event planning.
In some cases, business services are offered remotely. For example, a company with multiple offices might hire an HR shared service professional to handle employee matters such as hiring, payroll, benefits administration and training across the organization. This saves companies time and money while improving efficiency and consistency.
Another example of a business service is a maintenance service that helps keep company property functioning properly, such as animal control for an occasional infestation or tech support for malfunctioning computers. These professionals can address these issues quickly and help employees stay productive.
Many companies use warehousing and shipping services to facilitate the delivery of goods from manufacturers to customers. These value-added functions can include storing and managing inventory, packaging, sorting, entering orders, performing light assembly, determining pricing and marking, and transporting the goods.
Successful business-service models require a distinct approach to management. They must balance the competing autonomy of individual service models with the collective value of shared services and, in some cases, manage the competing interests of revenue-generating line managers over those of the service model leaders. This often requires strong, centralized leadership from senior managers willing and able to exert their influence across the business.