Industries in the Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services subsector group establishments engaged in processes where human capital is the major input. These establishments make available the knowledge and skills of their employees, often on an assignment basis, where an individual or team is responsible for the delivery of services to the client. The individual industries of this subsector are defined on the basis of the particular expertise and training of the services provider.
The distinguishing feature of the Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services subsector is the fact that most of the industries grouped in it have production processes that are almost wholly dependent on worker skills. In most of these industries, equipment and materials are not of major importance, unlike health care, for example, where "high tech" machines and materials are important collaborating inputs to labor skills in the production of health care. Thus, the establishments classified in this subsector sell expertise. Much of the expertise requires degrees, though not in every case.
54111 Offices of Lawyers
See industry description for 541110 below.
541110 Offices of Lawyers
This industry comprises offices of legal practitioners known as lawyers or attorneys (i.e.,
counselors-at-law) primarily engaged in the practice of law. Establishments in this industry may
provide expertise in a range or in specific areas of law, such as criminal law, corporate law,
family and estate law, patent law, real estate law, or tax law.
Cross-References.
- Establishments of legal practitioners (except lawyers or attorneys) primarily engaged in providing specialized legal or paralegal services are classified in Industry 54119, Other Legal Services.
54112 Offices of Notaries
See industry description for 541120 below.
541120 Offices of Notaries
This industry comprises establishments (except offices of lawyers and attorneys) primarily
engaged in drafting, approving, and executing legal documents, such as real estate transactions,
wills, and contracts; and in receiving, indexing, and storing such documents.
Cross-References.
- Establishments of lawyers and attorneys primarily engaged in the practice of law are classified in Industry 541110, Offices of Lawyers; and
- Establishments of notaries public engaged in activities, such as administering oaths and taking affidavits and depositions, witnessing and certifying signatures on documents, but not empowered to draw and approve legal documents and contracts, are classified in U.S. Industry 541199, All Other Legal Services.
54119 Other Legal Services
This industry comprises establishments of legal practitioners (except lawyers and attorneys)
primarily engaged in providing specialized legal or paralegal services.
Illustrative Examples:
Notary public services; Process serving services; Paralegal services; Real estate
settlement offices; Patent agent services (i.e., patent filing and searching services);
Real estate title abstract companies.
Cross-References.
- Establishments of lawyers and attorneys primarily engaged in the practice of law are classified in Industry 541110, Offices of Lawyers; and
- Establishments (except offices of lawyers, attorneys, and paralegals) primarily engaged in providing arbitration and conciliation services are classified in Industry 541990, All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services.
541191 Title Abstract and Settlement Offices
This U.S. industry comprises establishments (except offices of lawyers and attorneys) primarily
engaged in one or more of the following activities: (1) researching public land records to gather
information relating to real estate titles; (2) preparing documents necessary for the transfer of
the title, financing, and settlement; (3) conducting final real estate settlements and closings;
and (4) filing legal and other documents relating to the sale of real estate. Real estate
settlement offices, title abstract companies, and title search companies are included in this
industry.
Cross-References.
- Establishments of lawyers and attorneys primarily engaged in the practice of law are classified in Industry 541110, Offices of Lawyers.
541199 All Other Legal Services
This U.S. industry comprises establishments of legal practitioners (except offices of lawyers and
attorneys, settlement offices, and title abstract offices). These establishments are primarily
engaged in providing specialized legal or paralegal services.
Illustrative Examples:
Notary public services; Patent agent services (i.e., patent filing and searching services);
Paralegal services; Process serving services.
Cross-References.
- Establishments of lawyers and attorneys primarily engaged in the practice of law are classified in Industry 541110, Offices of Lawyers;
- Establishments (except offices of lawyers and attorneys) primarily engaged in researching public land records for ownership or title; preparing documents necessary for the transfer of the title, financing, and settlement; conducting final real estate settlements and closings; and/or filing legal and other documents relating to the sale of real estate are classified in U.S. Industry 541191, Title Abstract and Settlement Offices; and
- Establishments (except offices of lawyers, attorneys, and paralegals) primarily engaged in providing arbitration and conciliation services are classified in Industry 541990, All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services.
5412 Accounting, Tax Preparation, Bookkeeping, and Payroll Services
54121 Accounting, Tax Preparation, Bookkeeping, and
Payroll Services
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing services, such as auditing
of accounting records, designing accounting systems, preparing financial statements, developing
budgets, preparing tax returns, processing payrolls, bookkeeping, and billing.
Illustrative Examples:
Accountants' offices; Payroll processing services; Bookkeeping services; Tax return
preparation services.
Establishments providing computer data processing services at their own facility for others are classified in Industry 51821, Data Processing, Hosting, and Related Services.
541211 Offices of Certified Public Accountants
This U.S. industry comprises establishments of accountants that are certified to audit the
accounting records of public and private organizations and to attest to compliance with generally
accepted accounting practices. Offices of certified public accountants (CPAs) may provide one or
more of the following accounting services: (1) auditing financial statements; (2) designing
accounting systems; (3) preparing financial statements; (4) developing budgets; and (5) providing
advice on matters related to accounting. These establishments may also provide related services,
such as bookkeeping, tax return preparation, and payroll processing.
Learn more about operating an Accounting Firm or an Auditing Services business.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Providing tax return preparation services only - classified in U.S. Industry 541213, Tax Preparation Services;
- Providing payroll processing services only - classified in U.S. Industry 541214, Payroll Services; and
- Providing accounting, bookkeeping, and billing services - classified in U.S. Industry 541219, Other Accounting Services.
541213 Tax Preparation Services
This U.S. industry comprises establishments (except offices of CPAs) engaged in providing tax
return preparation services without also providing accounting, bookkeeping, billing, or payroll
processing services. Basic knowledge of tax law and filing requirements is required.
Cross-References.
- Establishments of CPAs are classified in U.S. Industry 541211, Offices of Certified Public Accountants;
- Establishments of non-CPAs providing payroll services along with tax return preparation services are classified in U.S. Industry 541214, Payroll Services;
- Establishments of non-CPAs providing accounting, bookkeeping, or billing services along with tax return preparation services are classified in U.S. Industry 541219, Other Accounting Services; and
- Establishments providing computer data processing services at their own facility for others are classified in Industry 518210, Data Processing, Hosting, and Related Services.
541214 Payroll Services
This U.S. industry comprises establishments (except offices of CPAs) engaged in the following
without also providing accounting, bookkeeping, or billing services: (1) collecting information
on hours worked, pay rates, deductions, and other payroll-related data from their clients and (2)
using that information to generate paychecks, payroll reports, and tax filings. These
establishments may use data processing and tabulating techniques as part of providing their
services.
Cross-References.
- Establishments of CPAs are classified in U.S. Industry 541211, Offices of Certified Public Accountants;
- Establishments of non-CPAs providing tax return preparation services only are classified in U.S. Industry 541213, Tax Preparation Services; and
- Establishments of non-CPAs providing accounting, bookkeeping, or billing services along with payroll services are classified in U.S. Industry 541219, Other Accounting Services.
541219 Other Accounting Services
This U.S. industry comprises establishments (except offices of CPAs) engaged in providing
accounting services (except tax return preparation services only or payroll services only). These
establishments may also provide tax return preparation or payroll services. Accountant (except
CPA) offices, bookkeeper offices, and billing offices are included in this industry.
Learn about operating an Automated Accounting Systems business.
Cross-References.
- Establishments of CPAs are classified in U.S. Industry 541211, Offices of Certified Public Accountants;
- Establishments of non-CPAs engaged in providing tax return preparation services only are classified in U.S. Industry 541213, Tax Preparation Services; and
- Establishments of non-CPAs engaged in providing payroll services only are classified in U.S. Industry 541214, Payroll Services.
5413 Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services
54131 Architectural Services
See industry description for 541310 below.
541310 Architectural Services
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in planning and designing residential,
institutional, leisure, commercial, and industrial buildings and structures by applying knowledge
of design, construction procedures, zoning regulations, building codes, and building materials.
Learn about operating an Architectural Services business.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Planning and designing the development of land areas - classified in Industry 541320, Landscape Architectural Services; and
- Both the design and construction of buildings, highways, or other structures or in managing construction projects - classified in Sector 23, Construction, according to the type of project.
54132 Landscape Architectural Services
See industry description for 541320 below.
541320 Landscape Architectural Services
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in planning and designing the
development of land areas for projects, such as parks and other recreational areas; airports;
highways; hospitals; schools; land subdivisions; and commercial, industrial, and residential
areas, by applying knowledge of land characteristics, location of buildings and structures, use
of land areas, and design of landscape projects.
Illustrative Examples:
Garden planning services; Landscape architects' offices; Golf course or ski area design services;
Landscape consulting services; Industrial land use planning services; Landscape design services.
Cross-References.
- Establishments primarily engaged in providing landscape care and maintenance services and/or installing trees, shrubs, plants, lawns, or gardens along with the design of landscape plans are classified in Industry 561730, Landscaping Services.
54133 Engineering Services
See industry description for 541330 below.
541330 Engineering Services
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in applying physical laws and principles
of engineering in the design, development, and utilization of machines, materials, instruments,
structures, processes, and systems. The assignments undertaken by these establishments may
involve any of the following activities: provision of advice, preparation of feasibility studies,
preparation of preliminary and final plans and designs, provision of technical services during
the construction or installation phase, inspection and evaluation of engineering projects, and
related services.
Illustrative Examples:
Civil engineering services; Environmental engineering services; Construction engineering
services; Mechanical engineering services; Engineers' offices.
Learn about operating an Architectural Engineering business.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Planning and designing computer systems that integrate computer hardware, software, and communication technologies - classified in U.S. Industry 541512, Computer Systems Design Services;
- Performing surveying and mapping services of the surface of the earth, including the sea floor - classified in Industry 541370, Surveying and Mapping (except Geophysical) Services;
- Gathering, interpreting, and mapping geophysical data - classified in Industry 541360, Geophysical Surveying and Mapping Services;
- Creating and developing designs and specifications that optimize the use, value, and appearance of products - classified in Industry 541420, Industrial Design Services;
- Providing advice and assistance to others on environmental issues, such as the control of environmental contamination from pollutants, toxic substances, and hazardous materials - classified in Industry 541620, Environmental Consulting Services; and
- Both the design and construction of buildings, highways, and other structures or in managing construction projects - classified in Sector 23, Construction, according to the type of project.
54134 Drafting Services
See industry description for 541340 below.
541340 Drafting Services
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in drawing detailed layouts, plans, and
illustrations of buildings, structures, systems, or components from engineering and architectural
specifications.
54135 Building Inspection Services
See industry description for 541350 below.
541350 Building Inspection Services
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing building inspection
services. These establishments typically evaluate all aspects of the building structure and
component systems and prepare a report on the physical condition of the property, generally for
buyers or others involved in real estate transactions. Building inspection bureaus and
establishments providing home inspection services are included in this industry.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Inspecting buildings for termites and other pests - classified in Industry 561710, Exterminating and Pest Control Services;
- Inspecting buildings for hazardous materials - classified in Industry 541620, Environmental Consulting Services; and
- Conducting inspections and enforcing public building codes and standards - classified in Industry 925110, Administration of Housing Programs.
54136 Geophysical Surveying and Mapping Services
See industry description for 541360 below.
541360 Geophysical Surveying and Mapping Services
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in gathering, interpreting, and mapping
geophysical data. Establishments in this industry often specialize in locating and measuring the
extent of subsurface resources, such as oil, gas, and minerals, but they may also conduct surveys
for engineering purposes. Establishments in this industry use a variety of surveying techniques
depending on the purpose of the survey, including magnetic surveys, gravity surveys, seismic
surveys, or electrical and electromagnetic surveys.
Cross-References.
- Establishments primarily engaged in taking core samples, drilling test wells, or other mine development activities (except geophysical surveying and mapping) on a contract basis for others are classified in Industry 21311, Support Activities for Mining.
54137 Surveying and Mapping (except Geophysical) Services
See industry description for 541370 below.
541370 Surveying and Mapping (except Geophysical) Services
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in performing surveying and mapping
services of the surface of the earth, including the sea floor. These services may include
surveying and mapping of areas above or below the surface of the earth, such as the creation of
view easements or segregating rights in parcels of land by creating underground utility
easements.
Illustrative Examples:
Cadastral surveying services; Mapping (except geophysical) services; Cartographic
surveying services; Topographic surveying services; Geodetic surveying services.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Providing geophysical surveying and mapping services - classified in Industry 541360, Geophysical Surveying and Mapping Services;
- Publishing atlases and maps, except for exclusive Internet publishing - classified in U.S. Industry 511130, Book Publishers; and
- Publishing atlases and maps exclusively on the Internet classified in U.S. Industry 519130, Internet Publishing and Broadcasting and Web Search Portals.
54138 Testing Laboratories
See industry description for 541380 below.
541380 Testing Laboratories
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in performing physical, chemical, and
other analytical testing services, such as acoustics or vibration testing, assaying, biological
testing (except medical and veterinary), calibration testing, electrical and electronic testing,
geotechnical testing, mechanical testing, nondestructive testing, or thermal testing. The testing
may occur in a laboratory or on-site.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Laboratory testing for the medical profession - classified in Industry 62151, Medical and Diagnostic Laboratories;
- Veterinary testing services - classified in Industry 541940, Veterinary Services; and
- Auto emissions testing - classified in U.S. Industry 811198, All Other Automotive Repair and Maintenance.
5414 Specialized Design Services
This industry group comprises establishments providing specialized design services (except
architectural, engineering, and computer systems design).
54141 Interior Design Services
See industry description for 541410 below.
541410 Interior Design Services This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in planning, designing, and administering projects in interior spaces to meet the physical and aesthetic needs of people using them, taking into consideration building codes, health and safety regulations, traffic patterns and floor planning, mechanical and electrical needs, and interior fittings and furniture. Interior designers and interior design consultants work in areas, such as hospitality design, health care design, institutional design, commercial and corporate design, and residential design. This industry also includes interior decorating consultants engaged exclusively in providing aesthetic services associated with interior spaces.
54142 Industrial Design Services
See industry description for 541420 below.
541420 Industrial Design Services
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in creating and developing designs and
specifications that optimize the use, value, and appearance of their products. These services can
include the determination of the materials, construction, mechanisms, shape, color, and surface
finishes of the product, taking into consideration human characteristics and needs, safety,
market appeal, and efficiency in production, distribution, use, and maintenance. Establishments
providing automobile or furniture industrial design services or industrial design consulting
services are included in this industry.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Applying physical laws and principles of engineering in the design, development, and utilization of machines, materials, instruments, structures, processes, and systems - classified in Industry 541330, Engineering Services; and
- Designing clothing, shoes, or jewelry - classified in Industry 541490, Other Specialized Design Services.
54143 Graphic Design Services
See industry description for 541430 below.
541430 Graphic Design Services
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in planning, designing, and managing the
production of visual communication in order to convey specific messages or concepts, clarify
complex information, or project visual identities. These services can include the design of
printed materials, packaging, advertising, signage systems, and corporate identification (logos).
This industry also includes commercial artists engaged exclusively in generating drawings and
illustrations requiring technical accuracy or interpretative skills.
Illustrative Examples:
Commercial art studios; Independent commercial or graphic artists; Corporate
identification (i.e., logo) design services; Medical art or illustration services;
Graphic design consulting services.
Cross-References.
- Establishments primarily engaged in creating and/or placing public display advertising material are classified in Industry 541850, Display Advertising; and
- Independent artists primarily engaged in creating and selling visual artwork for noncommercial use and independent cartoonists are classified in Industry 711510, Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers.
54149 Other Specialized Design Services
See industry description for 541490 below.
541490 Other Specialized Design Services
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing professional design
services (except architectural, landscape architecture, engineering, interior, industrial,
graphic, and computer system design).
Illustrative Examples:
Costume design services (except independent theatrical costume designers); Jewelry design
services; Fashion design services; Float design services; Shoe design services;
Fur design services; Textile design services.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Providing architectural design services - classified in Industry 541310, Architectural Services;
- Providing landscape architecture design services - classified in Industry 541320, Landscape Architectural Services;
- Providing engineering design services - classified in Industry 541330, Engineering Services;
- Providing interior design services - classified in Industry 541410, Interior Design Services;
- Providing industrial design services - classified in Industry 541420, Industrial Design Services;
- Providing graphic design services - classified in Industry 541430, Graphic Design Services;
- Providing computer systems design services - classified in U.S. Industry 541512, Computer Systems Design Services; and
- Operating as independent theatrical designers - classified in Industry 711510, Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers.
5415 Computer Systems Design and Related Services
See industry description for 54151 below.
54151 Computer Systems Design and Related Services
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing expertise in the field of
information technologies through one or more of the following activities: (1) writing, modifying,
testing, and supporting software to meet the needs of a particular customer; (2) planning and
designing computer systems that integrate computer hardware, software, and communication
technologies; (3) on-site management and operation of clients' computer systems and/or data
processing facilities; and (4) other professional and technical computer-related advice and
services.
Illustrative Examples:
Computer facilities management services; Custom computer programming services;
Computer hardware or software consulting services; Software installation services;
Computer systems integration design services.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Selling computer hardware or software products from retail-like locations and providing supporting services, such as customized assembly of personal computers - classified in Industry 44312, Computer and Software Stores;
- Wholesaling computer hardware or software products and providing supporting services, such as customized assembly of personal computers, - classified in Industry 423430, Computer and Computer Peripheral Equipment and Software Merchant Wholesalers;
- Publishing packaged software - classified in Industry 51121, Software Publishers;
- Providing computer data processing services at their own facility for others - classified in Industry 518210, Data Processing, Hosting, and Related Services.
541511 Custom Computer Programming Services
This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in writing, modifying, testing, and
supporting software to meet the needs of a particular customer.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Publishing packaged software - classified in Industry 511210, Software Publishers; and
- Planning and designing computer systems that integrate computer hardware, software, and communication technologies, even though such establishments may provide custom software as an integral part of their services - classified in U.S. Industry 541512, Computer Systems Design Services.
541512 Computer Systems Design Services
This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in planning and designing computer
systems that integrate computer hardware, software, and communication technologies. The hardware
and software components of the system may be provided by this establishment or company as part of
integrated services or may be provided by third parties or vendors. These establishments often
install the system and train and support users of the system.
Illustrative Examples:
Computer systems integration design consulting services; Local area network (LAN)
computer systems integration design services; Information management computer
systems integration design services; Office automation computer systems integration
design services.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Selling computer hardware or software products and systems from retail-like locations, and providing supporting services, such as customized assembly of personal computers - classified in Industry 443120, Computer and Software Stores; and
- Wholesaling computer hardware or software products and providing supporting services, such as customized assembly of personal computers, - classified in Industry 423430, Computer and Computer Peripheral Equipment and Software Merchant Wholesalers.
541513 Computer Facilities Management Services
This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing on-site management and
operation of clients' computer systems and/or data processing facilities. Establishments
providing computer systems or data processing facilities support services are included in this
industry.
Cross-References.
- Establishments primarily engaged in providing computer data processing services at their own facility for others are classified in Industry 518210, Data Processing, Hosting, and Related Services.
541519 Other Computer Related Services
This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing computer related
services (except custom programming, systems integration design, and facilities management
services). Establishments providing computer disaster recovery services or software installation
services are included in this industry.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Providing custom computer programming services - classified in U.S. Industry 541511, Custom Computer Programming Services;
- Providing computer systems integration design services - classified in U.S. Industry 541512, Computer Systems Design Services; and
- Providing computer systems and/or data processing facilities management services - classified in U.S. Industry 541513, Computer Facilities Management Services.
5416 Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services
54161 Management Consulting Services
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing advice and assistance to
businesses and other organizations on management issues, such as strategic and organizational
planning; financial planning and budgeting; marketing objectives and policies; human resource
policies, practices, and planning; production scheduling; and control planning.
Illustrative Examples:
Actuarial, benefit, and compensation consulting services; Marketing consulting services;
Administrative and general management consulting services; Process, physical distribution,
and logistics consulting services; Human resources consulting services.
Cross-References.
- Establishments primarily engaged in providing a range of day-to-day office administrative services, such as financial planning, billing and recordkeeping, personnel, and physical distribution and logistics, are classified in Industry 56111, Office Administrative Services;
- Establishments primarily engaged in providing executive search, recruitment, and placement services are classified in Industry 56131, Employment Placement Agencies and Executive Search Services;
- Establishments primarily engaged in administering, overseeing, and managing other establishments of the company or enterprise (except government establishments) are classified in Industry 55111, Management of Companies and Enterprises;
- Government establishments primarily engaged in administering, overseeing, and managing governmental programs are classified in Sector 92, Public Administration;
- Establishments primarily engaged in professional and management development training are classified in Industry 61143, Professional and Management Development Training;
- Establishments primarily engaged in listing employment vacancies and in selecting, referring, and placing applicants in employment are classified in Industry 56131, Employment Placement Agencies;
- Establishments primarily engaged in developing and implementing public relations plans are classified in Industry 54182, Public Relations Agencies;
- Establishments primarily engaged in developing and conducting marketing research or public opinion polling are classified in Industry 54191, Marketing Research and Public Opinion Polling;
- Establishments primarily engaged in planning and designing industrial processes and systems are classified in Industry 54133, Engineering Services;
- Establishments primarily engaged in planning and designing computer systems are classified in Industry 54151, Computer Systems Design and Related Services; and
- Establishments primarily engaged in providing financial investment advice services are classified in Industry 52393, Investment Advice.
541611 Administrative Management and General Management
Consulting Services
This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing operating advice and
assistance to businesses and other organizations on administrative management issues, such as
financial planning and budgeting, equity and asset management, records management, office
planning, strategic and organizational planning, site selection, new business startup, and
business process improvement. This industry also includes establishments of general management
consultants that provide a full range of administrative; human resource; marketing; process,
physical distribution, and logistics; or other management consulting services to clients.
Illustrative Examples:
Administrative management consulting services; Site selection consulting services;
Financial management (except investment advice) consulting services; Strategic
planning consulting services; General management consulting services.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Establishments primarily engaged in providing a range of day-to-day office administrative services, such as financial planning, billing and recordkeeping, personnel, and physical distribution and logistics, are classified in Industry 561110, Office Administrative Services;
- Establishments providing operations consulting services are classified in U.S. Industry 541614, Process, Physical Distribution, and Logistics Consulting Services;
- Establishments primarily engaged in administering, overseeing, and managing other establishments of the company or enterprise (except government establishments) are classified in U.S. Industry 551114, Corporate, Subsidiary, and Regional Managing Offices;
- Government establishments primarily engaged in administering, overseeing, and managing governmental programs are classified in Sector 92, Public Administration; and
- Establishments primarily engaged in providing investment advice are classified in Industry 523930, Investment Advice.
541612 Human Resources Consulting Services
This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing advice
and assistance to businesses and other organizations in one or more of the following areas:
(1) human resource and personnel policies, practices, and procedures;
(2) employee benefits planning, communication, and administration;
(3) compensation systems planning; and
(4) wage and salary administration.
Illustrative Examples:
Benefit or compensation consulting services; Employee assessment consulting services;
Personnel management consulting services; Human resources consulting services.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Providing professional and management development training - classified in Industry 611430, Professional and Management Development Training;
- Listing employment vacancies and in selecting, referring, and placing applicants in employment - classified in U.S. Industry 561311, Employment Placement Agencies; and
- Providing executive search, recruitment, and placement services - classified in U.S. Industry 561312, Executive Search Services.
541613 Marketing Consulting Services
This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing operating advice and
assistance to businesses and other organizations on marketing issues, such as developing
marketing objectives and policies, sales forecasting, new product developing and pricing,
licensing and franchise planning, and marketing planning and strategy.
Illustrative Examples:
Customer services management consulting services; New product development consulting services;
Marketing management consulting services; Sales management consulting services.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Developing and implementing public relations plans classified in Industry 541820, Public Relations Agencies; and
- Developing and conducting marketing research or public opinion polling classified in Industry 541910, Marketing Research and Public Opinion Polling.
541614 Process, Physical Distribution, and Logistics
Consulting Services
This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing
operating advice and assistance to businesses and other organizations in areas, such as:
(1) manufacturing operations improvement
(2) productivity improvement;
(3) production planning and control;
(4) quality assurance and quality control;
(5) inventory management;
(6) distribution networks;
(7) warehouse use, operations, and utilization;
(8) transportation and shipment of goods and materials; and
(9) materials management and handling.
Illustrative Examples:
Freight rate or tariff rate consulting services; Productivity improvement consulting services;
Inventory planning and control management consulting services;
Transportation management consulting services; Manufacturing management consulting services.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Planning and designing industrial processes and systems - classified in Industry 541330, Engineering Services; and
- Providing computer systems integration design services - classified in U.S. Industry 541512, Computer Systems Design Services.
541618 Other Management Consulting Services
This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing management consulting
services (except administrative and general management consulting; human resources consulting;
marketing consulting; or process, physical distribution, and logistics consulting).
Establishments providing telecommunications or utilities management consulting services are
included in this industry.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Providing administrative and general management consulting services - classified in U.S. Industry 541611, Administrative Management and General Management Consulting Services;
- Providing human resources consulting services - classified in U.S. Industry 541612, Human Resources Consulting Services;
- Providing marketing consulting services - classified in U.S. Industry 541613, Marketing Consulting Services; and
- Providing process, physical distribution, and logistics consulting services - classified in U.S. Industry 541614, Process, Physical Distribution, and Logistics Consulting Services.
54162 Environmental Consulting Services
See industry description for 541620 below.
541620 Environmental Consulting Services
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing advice and assistance to
businesses and other organizations on environmental issues, such as the control of environmental
contamination from pollutants, toxic substances, and hazardous materials. These establishments
identify problems (e.g., inspect buildings for hazardous materials), measure and evaluate risks,
and recommend solutions. They employ a multidisciplined staff of scientists, engineers, and other
technicians with expertise in areas, such as air and water quality, asbestos contamination,
remediation, and environmental law. Establishments providing sanitation or site remediation
consulting services are included in this industry.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Environmental remediation - classified in Industry 562910, Remediation Services; and
- Providing environmental engineering services - classified in Industry 541330, Engineering Services.
54169 Other Scientific and Technical Consulting Services
See industry description for 541690 below.
541690 Other Scientific and Technical Consulting Services
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing advice and assistance to
businesses and other organizations on scientific and technical issues (except environmental).
Illustrative Examples:
Agricultural consulting services; Motion picture consulting services; Biological
consulting services; Physics consulting services; Chemical consulting services;
Radio consulting services; Economic consulting services; Safety consulting services;
Energy consulting services; Security consulting services.
Learn about being an Agricultural Consultant.
Cross-References.
- Establishments primarily engaged in environmental consulting are classified in Industry 541620, Environmental Consulting Services.
5417 Scientific Research and Development Services
This industry group comprises establishments engaged in conducting original investigation
undertaken on a systematic basis to gain new knowledge (research) and/or the application of
research findings or other scientific knowledge for the creation of new or significantly improved
products or processes (experimental development). The industries within this industry group are
defined on the basis of the domain of research; that is, on the scientific expertise of the
establishment.
54171 Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering,
and Life Sciences
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in conducting research and
experimental development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences, such as
agriculture, electronics, environmental, biology, botany, biotechnology, computers,
chemistry, food, fisheries, forests, geology, health, mathematics, medicine,
oceanography, pharmacy, physics, veterinary, and other allied subjects.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Providing veterinary testing services - classified in Industry 54194, Veterinary Services;
- Providing medical laboratory testing for humans - classified in Industry 62151, Medical and Diagnostic Laboratories;
- Providing physical, chemical, or other analytical testing services (except medical or veterinary), such as acoustics or vibration testing, calibration testing, electrical and electronic testing, geotechnical testing, mechanical testing, nondestructive testing, or thermal testing - classified in Industry 54138, Testing Laboratories; and
- Manufacturing vaccines, toxoids, blood fractions, and culture media of plant or animal origin (except diagnostic use) and/or uncompounded medicinal chemicals and their derivatives (i.e., enzyme proteins and antibiotics for pharmaceutical use) - classified in Industry 32541, Pharmaceutical and Medicine Manufacturing.
541711 Research and Development in Biotechnology
This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in conducting
biotechnology research and experimental development. Biotechnology research and
experimental development involves the study of the use of microorganisms and
cellular and biomolecular processes to develop or alter living or non-living
materials. This research and development in biotechnology may result in development
of new biotechnology processes or in prototypes of new or genetically-altered
products that may be reproduced, utilized, or implemented by various industries.
Illustrative Examples:
Recombinant DNA research and experimental development laboratories; DNA
technologies (e.g., microarrays) research and experimental development laboratories;
Cloning research and experimental development laboratories; Protein engineering
research and experimental development laboratories; Nucleic acid chemistry
research and experimental development laboratories; Nanobiotechnologies
research and experimental development laboratories.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Conducting research and experimental development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences (except biotechnology) - classified in U.S. Industry 541712, Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Biotechnology);
- Providing veterinary testing services--are classified in Industry 541940, Veterinary Services;
- Providing physical, chemical, or other analytical testing services (except medical or veterinary), such as acoustics or vibration testing, calibration testing, electrical and electronic testing, geotechnical testing, mechanical testing, nondestructive testing, or thermal testing - classified in Industry 541380, Testing Laboratories;
- Manufacturing vaccines, toxoids, blood fractions, and culture media of plant or animal origin (except diagnostic use)--are classified in U.S. Industry 325414, Biological Product (except Diagnostic) Manufacturing; and
- Manufacturing uncompounded medicinal chemicals and their derivatives (i.e., enzyme proteins and antibiotics for pharmaceutical use) - classified in U.S. Industry 325411, Medicinal and Botanical Manufacturing.
541712 Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering,
and Life Sciences (except Biotechnology)
This U.S. Industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in conducting research and
experimental development (except biotechnology research and experimental development) in
the physical, engineering, and life sciences, such as agriculture, electronics,
environmental, biology, botany, computers, chemistry, food, fisheries, forests,
geology, health, mathematics, medicine, oceanography, pharmacy, physics, veterinary
and other allied subjects.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Providing physical, chemical, or other analytical testing services (except medical or veterinary) - classified in Industry 541380, Testing Laboratories;
- Providing medical laboratory testing for humans - classified in U.S. Industry 621511, Medical Laboratories;
- Conducting research and experimental development in biotechnology - classified in U.S. Industry 541711, Research and Development in Biotechnology; and
- Providing veterinary testing services - classified in Industry 541940, Veterinary Services.
54172 Research and Development in the Social Sciences and
Humanities
See industry description for 541720 below.
541720 Research and Development in the Social Sciences
and Humanities
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in conducting research and analyses in
cognitive development, sociology, psychology, language, behavior, economic, and other social
science and humanities research.
Cross-References.
- Establishments primarily engaged in marketing research are classified in Industry 541910, Marketing Research and Public Opinion Polling.
5418 Advertising, Public Relations, and Related Services
54181 Advertising Agencies
See industry description for 541810 below.
541810 Advertising Agencies
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in creating advertising
campaigns and placing such advertising in periodicals, newspapers, radio and television,
or other media. These establishments are organized to provide a full range of services
(i.e., through in-house capabilities or subcontracting), including advice, creative services,
account management, production of advertising material, media planning, and buying (i.e.,
placing advertising).
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Purchasing advertising space from media outlets and reselling it directly to advertising agencies or individual companies - classified in Industry 541830, Media Buying Agencies;
- Conceptualizing and producing artwork or graphic designs without providing other advertising agency services - classified in Industry 541430, Graphic Design Services;
- Creating direct mail advertising campaigns - classified in Industry 541860, Direct Mail Advertising;
- Providing marketing consulting services - classified in U.S. Industry 541613, Marketing Consulting Services; and
- Selling media time or space for media owners as independent representatives - classified in Industry 541840, Media Representatives.
Learn More:
Advertising Consulting Business Plan
Business Plan for an Advertising Agency
Sample Advertising Agency Business Plan
54182 Public Relations Agencies
See industry description for 541820 below.
541820 Public Relations Agencies
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in designing and implementing public
relations campaigns. These campaigns are designed to promote the interests and image of their
clients. Establishments providing lobbying, political consulting, or public relations consulting
are included in this industry.
54183 Media Buying Agencies
See industry description for 541830 below.
541830 Media Buying Agencies
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in purchasing advertising time or space
from media outlets and reselling it to advertising agencies or individual companies directly.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Selling time and space to advertisers for media owners as independent representatives - classified in Industry 541840, Media Representatives; and
- Creating advertising campaigns and placing such advertising in media - classified in Industry 541810, Advertising Agencies.
54184 Media Representatives
See industry description for 541840 below.
541840 Media Representatives
This industry comprises establishments of independent representatives primarily engaged in
selling media time or space for media owners.
Illustrative Examples:
Newspaper advertising representatives (i.e., independent of media owners);
Radio advertising representatives (i.e., independent of media owners); Publishers'
advertising representatives (i.e., independent of media owners); Television
advertising representatives (i.e., independent of media owners).
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Purchasing advertising time or space from media outlets and reselling it directly to advertising agencies or individual companies - classified in Industry 541830, Media Buying Agencies; and
- Creating advertising campaigns and placing such advertising in media - classified in Industry 541810, Advertising Agencies.
54185 Display Advertising
See industry description for 541850 below.
541850 Display Advertising
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in creating and designing public display
advertising, campaign materials, such as printed, painted, or electronic displays, and/or placing
such displays on indoor or outdoor billboards and panels, or on or within transit vehicles or
facilities, shopping malls, retail (in-store) displays, and other display structures or sites.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- Providing sign lettering and painting services - classified in Industry 541890, Other Services Related to Advertising;
- Printing paper on paperboard signs - classified in Industry 32311, Printing;
- Erecting display boards - classified in Sector 238990, All Other Specialty Trade Contractors; and
- Manufacturing electrical, mechanical, or plate signs and point-of-sale advertising displays - classified in Industry 339950, Sign Manufacturing.
54186 Direct Mail Advertising
See industry description for 541860 below.
541860 Direct Mail Advertising
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in (1) creating and designing
advertising campaigns for the purpose of distributing advertising materials (e.g., coupons,
flyers, samples) or specialties (e.g., key chains, magnets, pens with customized messages
imprinted) by mail or other direct distribution; and/or (2) preparing advertising materials or
specialties for mailing or other direct distribution. These establishments may also compile,
maintain, sell, and rent mailing lists.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
- The direct distribution or delivery (e.g., door-to-door, windshield placement) of advertisements or samples - classified in Industry 541870, Advertising Material Distribution Services;
- Distributing advertising specialties for clients who wish to use such materials for promotional purposes - classified in Industry 541890, Other Services Related to Advertising;
- Creating advertising campaigns and placing such advertising in media - classified in Industry 541810, Advertising Agencies;
- Compiling and selling mailing lists without providing direct mail advertising services - classified in Industry 511140, Directory and Mailing List Publishers; and
- Broadcasting exclusively on the Internet - classified in Industry 519130, Internet Publishing and Broadcasting and Web Search Portals.
- Creating and designing advertising campaigns for the purpose of distributing advertising materials or samples through the mail - classified in Industry 541860, Direct Mail Advertising;
- Publishing newspapers or operating television stations or on-line information services - classified in Sector 51, Information; and
- Distributing advertising specialties (e.g., key chains, magnets, or pens with customized messages imprinted) to clients who wish to use such materials for promotional purposes - classified in Industry 541890, Other Services Related to Advertising.
- Creating advertising campaigns and placing such advertising in newspapers, television, or other media - classified in Industry 541810, Advertising Agencies;
- Designing and implementing public relations campaigns - classified in Industry 541820, Public Relations Agencies;
- Purchasing advertising time or space from media outlets and reselling it directly to advertising agencies or individual companies - classified in Industry 541830, Media Buying Agencies;
- Selling media time or space for media owners as independent representatives - classified in Industry 541840, Media Representatives;
- Providing display advertising services (except aerial) - classified in Industry 541850, Display Advertising;
- Providing direct distribution or delivery (e.g., door-to-door, windshield placement) of advertisements or samples - classified in Industry 541870, Advertising Material Distribution Services;
- Providing direct mail advertising services - classified in Industry 541860, Direct Mail Advertising;
- Publishing newspapers or operating television stations or on-line information services - classified in Sector 51, Information; and
- Providing marketing consulting services - classified in U.S. Industry 541613, Marketing Consulting Services.
- Providing research and analysis in economics, sociology, and related fields - classified in Industry 541720, Research and Development in the Social Sciences and Humanities; and
- Providing advice and counsel on marketing strategies - classified in U.S. Industry 541613, Marketing Consulting Services.
- Producing film and videotape for commercial exhibition or sale - classified in Industry 512110, Motion Picture and Video Production;
- Developing still photographs - classified in Industry 81292, Photofinishing;
- Developing motion picture film - classified in Industry 51219, Postproduction Services and Other Motion Picture and Video Industries;
- Taking, developing, and selling artistic, news, or other types of photographs on a freelance basis, such as photojournalists, - classified in Industry 711510, Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers; and
- Supplying and servicing automatic photography machines in places of business operated by others - classified in Industry 812990, All Other Personal Services.
- Producing film and videotape for commercial exhibition or sale - classified in Industry 512110, Motion Picture and Video Production;
- Developing still photographs - classified in Industry 81292, Photofinishing;
- Developing motion picture film - classified in U.S. Industry 512199, Other Motion Picture and Video Industries;
- Taking, developing, and selling artistic, news, or other types of photographs on a freelance basis, such as photojournalists, - classified in Industry 711510, Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers; and
- Supplying and servicing automatic photography machines in places of business operated by others - classified in Industry 812990, All Other Personal Services.
- Producing film and videotape for commercial exhibition or sale - classified in Industry 512110, Motion Picture and Video Production;
- Developing still photographs - classified in Industry 81292, Photofinishing;
- Developing motion picture film - classified in U.S. Industry 512199, Other Motion Picture and Video Industries;
- Taking, developing, and selling artistic, news, or other types of photographs on a freelance basis, such as photojournalists, - classified in Industry 711510, Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers; and
- Supplying and servicing coin-operated photography machines in places of business operated by others - classified in Industry 812990, All Other Personal Services.
- Providing transcription services - classified in Industry 561410, Document Preparation Services;
- Providing real-time (i.e., simultaneous) closed captioning services for live television performances, at meetings and conferences - classified in U.S. Industry 561492, Court Reporting and Stenotype Services;
- Providing film or tape closed captioning services - classified in U.S. Industry 512191, Teleproduction and Other Postproduction Services; and
- Analyzing handwriting - classified in Industry 541990, All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services.
- Providing veterinary research and development services - classified in Industry 54171, Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences;
- Providing nonveterinary pet care services, such as boarding or grooming pets - classified in Industry 812910, Pet Care (except Veterinary) Services;
- Providing animal breeding services or boarding horses - classified in Industry 115210, Support Activities for Animal Production; and
- Transporting pets - classified in U.S. Industry 485991, Special Needs Transportation.
- Providing legal services classified in Industry Group 5411, Legal Services;
- Providing accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping, and payroll services - classified in Industry Group 5412, Accounting, Tax Preparation, Bookkeeping, and Payroll Services;
- Providing architectural, engineering, and related services - classified in Industry Group 5413, Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services;
- Providing specialized design services - classified in Industry Group 5414, Specialized Design Services;
- Providing computer systems design and related services - classified in Industry Group 5415, Computer Systems Design and Related Services;
- Providing management, scientific, and technical consulting services - classified in Industry Group 5416, Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services;
- Providing scientific research and development services - classified in Industry Group 5417, Scientific Research and Development Services;
- Providing advertising and related services - classified in Industry Group 5418, Advertising, Public Relations, and Related Services;
- Providing marketing research and public opinion polling - classified in Industry 541910, Marketing Research and Public Opinion Polling;
- Providing photographic services - classified in Industry 54192, Photographic Services;
- Providing translation and interpretation services - classified in Industry 541930, Translation and Interpretation Services;
- Providing veterinary services classified in Industry 541940, Veterinary Services; and
- Providing real estate appraisal services classified in Industry 531320, Offices of Real Estate Appraisers.
54187 Advertising Material Distribution Services
See industry description for 541870 below.
541870 Advertising Material Distribution Services
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in the direct
distribution or delivery of advertisements (e.g., circulars, coupons, handbills) or
samples. Establishments in this industry use methods, such as delivering advertisements or
samples door-to-door, placing flyers or coupons on car windshields in parking lots, or
handing out samples in retail stores.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
54189 Other Services Related to Advertising
See industry description for 541890 below.
541890 Other Services Related to Advertising
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing advertising services
(except advertising agency services, public relations agency services, media buying agency
services, media representative services, display advertising services, direct mail advertising
services, advertising material distribution services, and marketing consulting services).
Illustrative Examples:
Advertising specialties (e.g., key chains, magnets, pens) distribution services (except
direct mail); Sign lettering and painting services; Display lettering services; Store window
dressing or trimming services; Mannequin decorating services; Welcoming
services (i.e., advertising services); Merchandise demonstration services.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
5419 Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
This industry group comprises establishments engaged in professional, scientific, and
technical services (except legal services; accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping,
and related services; architectural, engineering, and related services; specialized
design services; computer systems design and related services; management, scientific,
and technical consulting services; scientific research and development services;
and advertising, public relations and related services).
54191 Marketing Research and Public Opinion Polling
See industry description for 541910 below.
541910 Marketing Research and Public Opinion Polling
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in systematically gathering, recording,
tabulating, and presenting marketing and public opinion data.
Illustrative Examples:
Broadcast media rating services; Political opinion polling services; Marketing analysis or
research services; Statistical sampling services; Opinion research services.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
54192 Photographic Services
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing still, video, or digital
photography services. These establishments may specialize in a particular field of photography,
such as commercial and industrial photography, portrait photography, and special events
photography. Commercial or portrait photography studios are included in this industry.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
541921 Photography Studios, Portrait
This U.S. industry comprises establishments known as portrait studios primarily engaged in
providing still, video, or digital portrait photography services.
Illustrative Examples:
Home photography services; School photography services; Passport photography services;
Videotaping services for special events (e.g., weddings).
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
541922 Commercial Photography
This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing commercial photography
services, generally for advertising agencies, publishers, and other business and industrial
users.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
54193 Translation and Interpretation Services
See industry description for 541930 below.
541930 Translation and Interpretation Services
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in translating written material and
interpreting speech from one language to another and establishments primarily engaged in
providing sign language services.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
54194 Veterinary Services
See industry description for 541940 below.
541940 Veterinary Services
This industry comprises establishments of licensed veterinary practitioners primarily engaged in
the practice of veterinary medicine, dentistry, or surgery for animals; and establishments
primarily engaged in providing testing services for licensed veterinary practitioners.
Illustrative Examples:
Animal hospitals; Veterinary clinics; Veterinarians' offices; Veterinary testing laboratories.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
54199 All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
See industry description for 541990 below.
541990 All Other Professional, Scientific, and
Technical Services
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in the provision of professional,
scientific, or technical services (except legal services; accounting, tax preparation,
bookkeeping, and related services; architectural, engineering, and related services; specialized
design services; computer systems design and related services; management, scientific, and
technical consulting services; scientific research and development services; advertising and
related services; market research and public opinion polling; photographic services; translation
and interpretation services; and veterinary services).
Illustrative Examples:
Appraisal (except real estate) services; Marine surveyor (i.e., appraiser) services;
Arbitration and conciliation services (except by lawyer, attorney, or paralegal offices);
Patent broker services (i.e., patent marketing services); Commodity inspector services;
Pipeline or power line inspection (i.e., visual) services; Consumer credit
counseling services; Weather forecasting services; Handwriting analysis services.
Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in
Information courtesy of the U.S. Census Bureau.
