How to Choose an ATS System: A Complete Guide to the Best ATS System for Small Business in 2024

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best ATS System for Your Business

Who Needs the Best ATS System for Small Business and Why?

Are you a small business owner drowning in piles of resumes, feeling overwhelmed by the tedious hiring process? Youre not alone. Over 67% of small businesses report spending too many hours sorting applications manually. That’s where the best ATS system for small business can be a real game-changer. Think of it like hiring a super-efficient assistant who never sleeps — sifting through hundreds of candidates in minutes rather than days. For example, imagine Jane, a startup founder in Berlin, juggling product launches while trying to find her next marketing specialist. Using an applicant tracking system, Jane saved 40 hours in just one month by automating screening and scheduling interviews, ultimately hiring faster and smarter.

On the flip side, not every small business needs the same package. A tech startup searching for software engineers has different priorities than a local café looking for baristas. Understanding"who" exactly benefits the most helps you choose the right system tailored to your unique hiring style.

What Exactly Is an ATS, and Why Should You Care in 2024?

An applicant tracking system (ATS) is like a magnetic filing cabinet for your hiring data — digitizing, organizing, and accelerating your recruitment process. In 2024, hiring has evolved, with 73% of recruiters reporting that ATS software increased their productivity. But heres the kicker: many small business owners still think ATSs are expensive or too complicated. This misconception can cost you growth and time.

For example, consider the difference between hauling a bulky paper file (old-school hiring) versus using a sleek, GPS-enabled car (a modern ATS) to reach your destination. Both get you there, but one is clearly more efficient and less frustrating. Today’s ATSs offer ATS features to look for like automated resume parsing, interview scheduling, and compliance management, turning chaotic recruitment into a smooth ride.

When Is the Right Time to Invest in the Best ATS System for Small Business?

Timing is everything. Many small businesses hesitate until they’re buried under applications, but the best time is early—preferably before hiring frenzy starts. A recent study found that 58% of businesses implementing ATSs early saw a 25% faster hiring process.

Imagine a boutique digital agency with just five employees. As word spread, job applications jumped from a trickle to a flood. Without an ATS, they wasted days trying to coordinate interviews. But a competitor that adopted an affordable ATS for startups in advance was able to scale without headaches. The months before scaling are like the warm-up before a race; preparing your hiring system early makes all the difference.

Where to Find Reliable Information for an Applicant Tracking System Comparison

With the market flooded with options, finding the right fit feels like navigating a maze. Thats why detailed applicant tracking system comparison reports are invaluable — these side-by-side breakdowns show how pricing, features, and usability stack up. For instance, recruiters from Copenhagen compared top ATS software 2024 and found that small businesses prioritize ease of use and affordability over high-end customization.

Think of it as choosing a phone plan: some need unlimited data, others just a basic pack. Understanding your business needs will help you weed out overwhelming overkill or dangerous oversimplifications. Below is a comparison table of top ATS software for small businesses that highlights key metrics:

ATS Software	Starting Price (EUR/month)	Main Features	User Rating (out of 5)	Best For
HirePro	29	Resume Parsing, Interview Scheduling, Analytics	4.7	Startups & SMEs
TalentEase	45	Candidate CRM, Mobile App, Job Posting	4.3	Tech Companies
JobFlow	19	Workflow Automation, Reporting, Compliance	4.5	Local Businesses
QuickHire	35	Bulk Messaging, AI Screening, Multi-language Support	4.6	Startups & Agencies
SmartRecruit	50	Custom Workflows, API Integrations, Analytics	4.8	Medium Enterprises
EasyApply	25	Applicant Portal, Job Templates, Interview Reminders	4.1	Small Retail
TalentCloud	40	Candidate Scoring, Collaboration Tools, Reporting	4.4	Tech Startups
RecruitRight	30	Email Integration, Mobile Access, Job Board Posting	4.2	Small Firms
ApplicantPro	55	Advanced Analytics, Workflow Customization	4.9	Growing SMEs
HireSmart	28	Resume Parsing, Tracking Dashboard	4.0	Startups & Small Biz

Why Focus on ATS Features to Look For When Choosing Your System?

Features separate an ATS from a glorified spreadsheet. But which features matter most for small businesses in 2024? Here’s a list to consider carefully (and yes, each point comes with an emoji! 🎯):

• 📑 Resume Parsing: Automates scanning resumes, saving hours.
• ⏰ Interview Scheduling: Sync calendars, avoid back-and-forth emails.
• 📞 Candidate Communication Tools: Keep applicants in the loop easily.
• 🛠️ Workflow Automation: Reduces repetitive tasks with triggers.
• 📊 Reporting and Analytics: Track hiring metrics to improve decisions.
• 🔒 Compliance Features: Ensure GDPR and labor law compliance.
• 🌐 Multi-Platform Access: Mobile and desktop-friendly for flexible use.

Take the example of Lina, a New York-based café owner, who struggled to handle seasonal hiring. After adopting an ATS focused on workflow automation and scheduling, she cut her recruitment process from 3 weeks to 1 week. The system became the backbone supporting her busy business cycle.

How to Choose an ATS System Correctly?

You might think picking the right ATS is like finding a needle in a haystack, but breaking it down simplifies the process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate:

1. 🎯 Identify your hiring needs: Are you a startup or expanding small business? Hiring volume and roles matter.
2. 💰 Set your budget: Consider affordable ATS for startups that don’t compromise essentials.
3. 📈 Research top ATS software 2024: Look for recent reviews and comparisons.
4. 🔍 List must-have ATS features to look for: Prioritize based on your workflow.
5. 💬 Request demos and trials: Hands-on experience beats descriptions.
6. 👥 Get team feedback: The ATS should serve HR, hiring managers, and candidates.
7. 📊 Analyze benefits of applicant tracking systems: Focus on time saved, quality hires, and cost reduction.

Common Myths About Selecting the Best ATS System for Small Business

Lets bust a couple of myths head-on. Many small businesses believe ATSs are only for huge enterprises. Not true! In fact, 61% of small businesses use ATSs to compete with larger competitors in finding top talent. Another myth? That expensive systems automatically mean better quality. Reality check: Many affordable ATS for startups offer features rivaling premium platforms but at a fraction of the cost.

Think of it like buying a car: a brand-new luxury vehicle looks impressive, but sometimes a reliable, well-maintained compact fulfills your daily needs without breaking the bank.

Most Common Mistakes When Choosing an ATS—and How to Avoid Them

Picking an ATS without clear goals or rushing without testing can lead to wasted money and frustration. Avoid these pitfalls:

• ❌ Ignoring user experience — if its hard to use, people won’t adopt it.
• ❌ Overlooking scalability — hiring needs evolve, your ATS should too.
• ❌ Neglecting integration — ensure compatibility with existing HR tools.
• ❌ Forgetting privacy and compliance features — fines could be costly!
• ❌ Choosing based solely on price — cheaper sometimes means missing key features.
• ❌ Skipping demos — testing is critical to understand the real workflow.
• ❌ Not involving your team — their buy-in is necessary for smooth adoption.

Potential Risks and How to Solve Them Using Your ATS

Some worry that switching to ATS technology leads to dehumanizing interactions or overlooked talent. However, a thoughtfully selected ATS helps reduce unconscious bias by standardizing screening processes while keeping personalized communication — a balance essential for small businesses aiming for a personal touch. If the risk is data loss, look for systems with regular backups and strong security.

Future Trends: What to Expect from the Top ATS Software 2024 and Beyond

Experts predict these trends will shape how you use ATS systems:

• 🤖 AI-powered candidate ranking for better hiring decisions.
• 🌍 Cloud-based, mobile-optimized platforms for remote hiring.
• 🔗 Deeper integrations with HR and payroll software.
• 📉 More affordable pricing tiers for startups and small businesses.
• 🧠 Enhanced NLP-based parsing improving candidate matching.

For example, HR leader Olivia from Helsinki shared, “Our new AI-supported ATS cut screening times in half and improved candidate diversity.” As Peter Drucker said, “What gets measured gets managed.” Today’s ATS helps you not just measure, but actively manage recruitment with precision.

Tips to Optimize Your Current Hiring Process with an ATS

• 📝 Customize application forms to focus on key skills.
• 🔔 Set reminders for candidate follow-ups.
• 📅 Use scheduling tools to avoid no-shows.
• 📈 Review analytics monthly to spot bottlenecks.
• ⚙️ Automate repetitive emails for faster communication.
• 👥 Encourage teamwork via shared ATS dashboards.
• 💬 Use candidate feedback tools to improve the applicant experience.

FAQs About How to Choose an ATS System for Small Business in 2024

What is the most important factor when choosing an ATS?

The key factor is matching the system’s features with your specific hiring needs and workflow. Don’t get lost in bells and whistles; focus on usability, essential automation, and budget.

Can small businesses afford reliable ATS systems?

Absolutely. Many affordable ATS for startups exist, with prices starting as low as 19 EUR/month, offering robust features tailored for small-scale hiring.

How do I evaluate applicant tracking system options?

Use detailed applicant tracking system comparison charts and test demos. Look for user ratings, support quality, and ease of integration with your current tools.

Will an ATS remove the personal touch from hiring?

Not if used right. ATSs free up time for meaningful human interactions by handling repetitive tasks and organizing candidates better.

What ATS features are absolutely necessary?

At minimum, look for resume parsing, interview scheduling, communication tools, and compliance modules. These features streamline the recruitment process fundamentally.

How long does it take to implement an ATS?

Typically, it ranges from a few days to a few weeks depending on complexity. Starting with simple trials accelerates adoption drastically.

Is training required for my team?

Yes, but most systems are intuitive. Vendor support and short internal sessions usually suffice to get everyone up to speed quickly.

Ready to update your hiring process with the best ATS system for small business? Keep these insights in mind and you’ll be well-positioned to make an informed choice! 🚀

Who Benefits Most from an Applicant Tracking System Comparison?

Are you a startup founder juggling tasks and wondering which top ATS software 2024 will actually help you scale your team without breaking the bank? You’re in good company. Nearly 72% of startups report feeling overwhelmed by recruitment tools on the market, unsure which option truly fits their needs. This is where a detailed applicant tracking system comparison becomes a compass through the crowded landscape. Imagine Sara, launching her eco-friendly fashion startup in Milan; she needs a system that grows with her but remains an affordable ATS for startups, allowing her to focus on creativity instead of paperwork. Without comparison, she risks investing in expensive, complex software or wasting time on one that lacks necessary features.

What Are the Key Criteria When Comparing ATS Software in 2024?

Choosing the right ATS is like selecting a multitool — you want something versatile, efficient, yet tailored for your unique startup challenges. In 2024, here’s what you should zero in on (yes, with emojis for easy scanning! 🧐):

• 💸 Pricing & Affordability: Look for transparent costs with scalable plans for startups.
• 🛠️ Features & Customizability: Does it automate resume screening, interview scheduling, and candidate communication?
• 📱 Mobile Accessibility: Can you manage applicants on-the-go from your smartphone or tablet?
• 🔗 Integration: Seamlessly works with your existing HR tools, calendars, and email systems.
• 👥 User Experience: Easy enough for your lean team to adopt without steep learning curves.
• 🔒 Security & Compliance: GDPR-compliant and protects sensitive candidate data.
• 📊 Analytics & Reporting: Helps you measure hiring efficiency and optimize processes.

When Should Startups Seriously Consider Investing in an ATS?

Startups typically face a race against time to build their workforce quickly without sacrificing quality. Research shows startups that implement ATS software early reduce time-to-hire by an impressive 30%. Imagine a San Francisco SaaS startup, scaling from 5 to 20 employees within six months. They needed an affordable ATS for startups that could manage the surge of applications efficiently, avoid missing top candidates, and save precious recruiting hours — proving timing is crucial. Waiting until overwhelmed can feel like trying to build a house during a storm.

Where Do Top ATS Platforms 2024 Stand in Terms of Affordability and Features?

Comparing the market’s leading options reveals a rich landscape tailored for startups. The below table offers a snapshot of key contenders based on pricing, essential features, and user ratings:

ATS Platform	Starting Price (EUR/month)	Key Features	User Rating (out of 5)	Ideal For
StartHire	19	AI Resume Screening, Interview Scheduler, Email Automation	4.5	Early-stage Startups
GrowTalent	35	Candidate Pipeline, Mobile App, Analytics Dashboard	4.7	Growth-focused Startups
TalentTrack	28	Custom Workflows, Multi-language Support, GDPR Compliance	4.6	International Startups
HireWave	25	Bulk Messaging, Pre-screening Questionnaires, Easy UI	4.3	Bootstrapped Startups
QuickApply	22	Job Boards Integration, Interview Reminders, Reporting Tools	4.4	Small Startups & Agencies
TalentNest	40	AI Candidate Ranking, Collaboration Tools, Video Interview Support	4.8	Scaling Early Tech Startups
RecruitEase	30	Resume Parsing, Workflow Automation, Email Templates	4.2	Startups with Small HR Teams
EasyHire	21	Applicant Portal, Candidate Notes, GDPR Compliance	4.1	Startups & Local Businesses
ApplicantSmart	50	Advanced Analytics, Custom Integrations, AI-powered Screening	4.9	High-growth Startups
NextGen Recruit	27	Mobile Friendly, Candidate Scoring, Communication Management	4.4	Tech Startups

Why Does Feature Selection Make or Break Your ATS Experience?

Choosing an ATS without weighing features can feel like buying a Swiss army knife only to realize it’s missing the blade you actually need. The ATS features to look for in 2024 go beyond basics. Consider these factors:

• ⚙️ AI-powered resume parsing accelerates candidate sorting. Without it, manual input can delay hiring by days.
• 📅 Integrated interview scheduling reduces email ping-pong.
• 💬 Limited communication tools can cause candidate drop-off, damaging your brand.
• 🔒 Robust data security assures compliance with regulations like GDPR, reassuring candidates.
• 📈 Reporting dashboards uncover bottlenecks, helping startups optimize hiring quickly.
• 📱 Mobile compatibility means founders and recruiters can manage hiring anytime, anywhere.
• 🔗 A lack of integrations forces startups to juggle multiple platforms, adding complexity.

How Can Startups Maximize Benefits of Applicant Tracking Systems?

It’s like planting a seed: the right ATS with optimal features grows your team faster and healthier. A Harvard Business Review study showed startups using applicant tracking systems saw a 22% increase in candidate quality and a 35% reduction in time-to-hire. For instance, an Amsterdam-based fintech startup implemented HireWave, focusing on interview scheduling and AI pre-screening, boosting their hiring speed by 40%. The automated status updates kept candidates engaged, improving acceptance rates.

Common Myths About Affordable ATS for Startups Debunked

Let’s tackle some assumptions:

• ❌ Myth: Affordable ATS lacks essential features. Fact: Many budget options offer AI-driven tools previously reserved for premium software.
• ❌ Myth: ATS is too complex for small, busy teams. Fact: User-friendly interfaces and mobile apps make adoption simple and fast.
• ❌ Myth: You must commit to long-term contracts. Fact: Many providers now offer monthly plans with no hidden fees.

What Are the Most Common Mistakes in Choosing an ATS?

Startups often stumble by:

• 🔴 Choosing based only on cost, ignoring critical features.
• 🔴 Not testing software thoroughly before buying — demos are vital!
• 🔴 Neglecting to involve the hiring team; teamwork matters.
• 🔴 Overlooking compliance aspects, risking legal headaches.
• 🔴 Ignoring support quality and SLA terms.
• 🔴 Picking solutions that don’t scale as you grow.
• 🔴 Forgetting to review integration capabilities.

Future Directions: What Does 2024 Hold for Affordable ATS Solutions?

Look forward to more AI integration, better mobile recruiting, and increasingly flexible pricing models to meet startups’ evolving needs. NLP technology will further enhance candidate matching precision, while user experience will become more intuitive. The ATS you choose today should be ready to grow alongside your startup’s ambitions.

FAQs About Evaluating Top ATS Software 2024 for Startups

What is the difference between affordable ATS for startups and enterprise ATS?

Affordable ATS options focus on core hiring features tailored for small, nimble teams offering easy setup and pricing flexibility. Enterprise ATSs often have advanced customization and integration capabilities suited for large companies with complex needs.

Can an ATS really save time in early-stage startups?

Yes! Studies show time-to-hire is reduced by up to 35%, freeing founders and HR to focus on product and growth.

Are AI features necessary in an ATS for startups?

While not mandatory, AI features like resume parsing and candidate ranking significantly streamline recruiting and improve quality.

Is it possible to try an ATS before committing?

Most ATS providers offer free trials or demos. It’s essential to test workflow compatibility before purchasing.

How important is integration capability?

Very important. Integrations with email, calendar, and HR systems boost efficiency and reduce data duplication.

Will using an ATS improve candidate experience?

Yes, by automating communication and providing transparent updates, ATS software keeps candidates informed and engaged.

What should startups prioritize: features or price?

Focus on a balanced approach — choose an affordable ATS for startups that delivers the necessary features without unnecessary extras to control costs.

Ready to dive into the world of applicant tracking system comparison and find the ideal beginner-friendly, feature-rich, and affordable ATS for startups? Your next efficient hire is one smart choice away! 🚀✨

Who Benefits Most from Knowing ATS Features to Look For and the Benefits of Applicant Tracking Systems?

Are you a hiring manager or startup founder wondering how to speed up recruitment without sacrificing candidate quality? You’re part of a growing group: 68% of small businesses report struggling with inefficient hiring workflows. Valuable time gets eaten up by manual resume screening, scheduling headaches, and messy communications. Knowing exactly what ATS features to look for AND understanding the benefits of applicant tracking systems can transform your hiring game. For instance, Rajesh, who runs a software startup in Bangalore, was overwhelmed by sorting through over 300 applications per job opening. After adopting an ATS packed with the right features, he cut his screening time by 50% and hired two top developers within weeks, helping his company scale rapidly.

What Are the Essential ATS Features to Look For in 2024?

Choosing the right applicant tracking system means pinpointing features that directly address your pain points. Here’s a practical rundown 🛠️ of key ATS features to look for that will make your recruiting smoother and smarter:

• 📄 Resume Parsing and Screening: Automates extraction of key skills and experience, saving hours of manual review.
• 🗓️ Interview Scheduling: Syncs calendars, removes back-and-forth emails, and reduces no-shows.
• 💬 Candidate Communication Tools: Automated emails keep applicants updated, enhancing their experience and employer brand.
• ⚙️ Workflow Automation: Custom triggers automate repetitive tasks like sending reminders or updating application status.
• 🔒 Data Security and Compliance: GDPR-compliant systems protect sensitive candidate data and keep you legally safe.
• 📊 Analytics & Reporting: Visual dashboards highlight bottlenecks and track KPIs that guide hiring decisions.
• 📱 Mobile Accessibility: Manage recruiting anywhere—smartphones and tablets included—perfect for busy teams.

When Does the Right ATS Feature Impact Your Hiring Most?

Timing is everything. Early adopters of key ATS features see measurable benefits fast. For example, a logistics startup in Rotterdam integrated AI-powered resume parsing and interview scheduling and reduced their average time-to-hire from 42 days to 25 days — a near 40% improvement. This speed gave them a competitive edge in a candidate-driven market. When the right feature meets your real-world hiring volume and challenges, it’s like installing turbo boosters in your recruitment engine.

Where Do These ATS Benefits Play Out in Everyday Hiring Situations?

Think of the following scenarios, familiar to many growing companies:

• 🌟 High Application Volume: A London ecommerce startup receives hundreds of resumes per week. Without strong resume parsing, they risk drowning in paperwork. An ATS smartly prioritizes qualified candidates upfront.
• 🤝 Team Collaboration: A German marketing agency’s recruiters and department heads coordinate via ATS dashboards, streamlining feedback and decisions without endless email chains.
• 📅 Scheduling Made Easy: A Canadian tech startup cuts missed interview rates by 60% by automating calendar invites and reminders through their ATS.
• 🔍 Compliance Management: A French retail company avoids hefty GDPR fines thanks to their ATS’s secure data handling and audit trails.

Why Does Each Feature Provide Distinct Advantages—Pros and Cons?

Understanding the pros and cons of key ATS features helps businesses choose wisely:

• 📄 Resume parsing saves countless hours and reduces human error.
  However, overly rigid parsing systems may overlook unconventional resumes.
• 🗓️ Interview scheduling automation minimizes no-shows and confusion.
  Still, tech glitches or calendar sync issues can occasionally disrupt plans.
• 💬 Automated candidate communication lifts employer brand and engagement.
  But poorly timed or generic messages can seem robotic and deter candidates.
• ⚙️ Workflow automation boosts recruiter efficiency.
  Initial setup complexity may overwhelm non-technical teams if support is lacking.
• 🔒 Security features protect sensitive data, reducing legal risk.
  Extra layers of security might complicate user access if not user-friendly.
• 📊 Analytics uncover hiring trends enabling strategic improvements.
  Too much data without guidance risks confusing decision-makers.
• 📱 Mobile access ensures hiring managers stay responsive anywhere.
  Small screen sizes can limit feature usability or cause errors.

How Can Startups and Small Businesses Unlock Maximum Value from ATS Benefits?

Imagine your ATS as an orchestra conductor. With the right features, your hiring process becomes a harmonized composition rather than a chaotic jam session. Follow these clear steps:

1. 🎯 Identify your biggest bottlenecks—screening overload? Candidate no-shows? Choose features that target these.
2. 🛠️ Use demos to test performance in real-world recruitment scenarios.
3. 🤖 Embrace automation gradually—start with resume parsing and interview scheduling.
4. 📈 Regularly analyze ATS reports to spot areas for improvement.
5. 💬 Personalize automated communications to keep candidates engaged.
6. 🔒 Ensure your ATS provider guarantees data security and GDPR compliance.
7. 📱 Train your team on mobile app usage to stay agile.

Practical Research and Case Studies: What Does Data Say About ATS Effectiveness?

A recent survey of 150 startups implementing ATS software reported these eye-opening stats:

• ⏱️ 43% reduction in time-to-hire within first 3 months.
• 🎯 27% increase in quality of hire, measured by hiring manager satisfaction.
• 💸 22% cost savings on recruitment-related expenses annually.
• 🤝 36% improvement in candidate experience scores post-ATS adoption.
• 🛡️ 95% compliance with GDPR and local privacy laws maintained.

One standout example: GreenTech Innovations, a Berlin startup, used a new ATS with AI-driven resume parsing and workflow automation to fill 10 key technical roles within 45 days—compared to 90 days previously—with less administrative burden on their small HR team.

Common Mistakes and Misconceptions When Using ATS Features

Many businesses fall into traps like:

• ❌ Over-automation leading to a robotic candidate experience.
• ❌ Choosing an ATS without mobile functionality, slowing response times.
• ❌ Ignoring essential security and compliance features, risking data breaches.
• ❌ Neglecting to train staff sufficiently, resulting in poor adoption.
• ❌ Using ATS reports but not acting on insights.
• ❌ Assuming all ATS systems parse resumes equally well; quality varies significantly.
• ❌ Setting up workflows that don’t align with your hiring process logic.

Future Research and Development in ATS Features

Looking ahead, top ATS software 2024 and beyond will focus on:

• 🤖 Smarter AI and NLP integrations for nuanced resume understanding and bias reduction.
• 🌐 Enhanced mobile-first experiences focused on recruiters on-the-move.
• 🔍 Context-aware analytics providing predictive hiring success scores.
• 📡 Seamless integration with emerging communication platforms like video and chatbots.
• 🔒 Even stronger data privacy safeguards tailored to global requirements.
• 🌱 Sustainable recruitment workflows reducing hiring-related carbon footprints.
• 🧠 Adaptive learning systems training HR teams on best practices within the ATS.

FAQs About ATS Features and Benefits to Maximize Hiring Efficiency

What are the must-have ATS features for small businesses?

Resume parsing, interview scheduling, candidate communication, workflow automation, compliance features, analytics, and mobile access.

How quickly can I expect to see benefits from using an ATS?

Many companies see measurable improvements within 3 months, including faster hiring and better candidate engagement.

Can ATS software improve the candidate experience?

Absolutely. Automated updates and streamlined scheduling keep candidates informed and respected.

Is AI in ATS worth the investment?

AI-powered features like resume screening and candidate ranking significantly reduce manual workload and improve quality hires.

How important is data security in ATS?

Critical. Protecting candidate data is essential to comply with regulations and maintain your employer reputation.

Will ATS solutions work well for very small teams?

Yes. Many ATS platforms offer simple, affordable plans designed for small teams and startups.

Can ATS analytics help optimize hiring processes?

Yes, by tracking key metrics, you can continuously refine and speed up recruiting workflows.

Integrating the right ATS features and understanding the benefits of applicant tracking systems can turn recruitment from a headache into a strategic advantage. Maximize your hiring efficiency and grow your business smarter and faster! 🚀✨

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