How To Build Outsourced SDR Teams: Strategies you havent considered

Outsourced SDR Teams: Unlocking Sales Success through Strategic Partnership

Outsourced SDR Teams have emerged as a game-changer for businesses looking to enhance their sales efforts and drive revenue growth. In today’s competitive business landscape, companies are constantly seeking innovative ways to optimize their sales processes and expand their customer base. This is where the concept of outsourcing sales development representatives (SDRs) comes into play.

Understanding Outsourced SDR Teams

Before delving into the intricacies of outsourced SDR teams, let’s first establish a clear understanding of the role of sales development representatives. SDRs are the driving force behind a company’s lead generation efforts, responsible for identifying and qualifying potential customers. They play a pivotal role in initiating the sales cycle, setting appointments, and nurturing leads for the sales team.

Outsourcing, on the other hand, refers to the practice of entrusting specific business functions or processes to external service providers. In the context of SDR teams, outsourcing involves partnering with specialized agencies or companies that offer comprehensive sales development solutions. These providers have dedicated teams of SDRs who work remotely to support client organizations in achieving their sales objectives.

The Benefits of Outsourced SDR Teams

Why should businesses consider outsourcing their SDR teams? The answer lies in the numerous benefits that come with this strategic partnership.

Cost-Effectiveness

Outsourcing SDR teams can significantly reduce operational costs for businesses. Instead of investing in establishing an in-house team, which requires recruiting, training, and providing infrastructure, outsourcing allows companies to leverage the expertise and infrastructure of dedicated providers. This eliminates the need for upfront investments and ongoing overhead expenses, resulting in substantial cost savings.

Access to Expertise

By outsourcing SDR teams, businesses gain access to a pool of experienced professionals who specialize in lead generation and sales development. These specialized teams possess the skills, knowledge, and industry insights necessary to effectively engage with potential customers and identify qualified leads. Leveraging the expertise of outsourced SDR teams can bring a fresh perspective and innovative approaches to lead generation, resulting in improved sales outcomes.

Scalability and Flexibility

Outsourcing enables businesses to quickly scale their sales efforts as per their requirements. During periods of increased demand, such as product launches or promotional campaigns, outsourced SDR teams can ramp up their activities to handle the influx of leads. Similarly, during slower periods, businesses can scale down their outsourced teams to match the reduced workload. This flexibility allows companies to optimize their resources and adapt to changing market conditions effectively.

Focus on Core Competencies

Outsourcing SDR teams enables businesses to focus on their core competencies and strategic priorities. By offloading the time-consuming and resource-intensive task of lead generation to specialized providers, companies can redirect their internal resources towards core business activities, such as product development, customer service, and relationship management. This strategic focus ultimately leads to improved overall business performance and growth.

Popular Outsourced SDR Team Service Providers

Several reputable providers specialize in outsourced SDR teams, offering comprehensive solutions tailored to the unique needs of businesses. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top players in the market:

  1. ABC Sales Solutions: With a proven track record in generating high-quality leads, ABC Sales Solutions offers a range of outsourced SDR services. Their team of skilled professionals excels in prospecting, appointment setting, and pipeline management, helping businesses accelerate their sales cycles.
  2. XYZ Outsourcing Services: XYZ Outsourcing Services is renowned for its expertise in lead qualification and nurturing. Their dedicated SDR teams leverage advanced technologies and data-driven strategies to identify and engage with qualified prospects, contributing to increased conversion rates and revenue growth.
  3. DEF Sales Support: DEF Sales Support specializes in providing outsourced SDR teams for businesses across various industries. Their comprehensive suite of services includes lead generation, market research, and database management, empowering businesses to achieve their sales goals more efficiently.

In the next sections, we will delve deeper into the evaluation process of outsourced SDR teams, exploring key factors to consider and steps to choose the right provider. We will also discuss the implementation and management of these teams, along with strategies to overcome challenges and maximize success. So, if you’re considering outsourcing your SDR teams, keep reading to gain valuable insights and make informed decisions.

Definition of Outsourced SDR Teams

Outsourced SDR teams refer to the practice of partnering with external service providers to handle the sales development representative functions of a business. In this arrangement, businesses entrust the responsibility of lead generation, prospecting, and initial customer engagement to specialized agencies or companies. These providers have dedicated teams of SDRs who work remotely to support the client organization’s sales efforts.

The concept of outsourcing SDR teams has gained significant popularity in recent years due to its ability to streamline sales processes, enhance efficiency, and drive revenue growth. By leveraging the expertise and infrastructure of outsourced SDR teams, businesses can focus on their core competencies while ensuring a consistent flow of qualified leads.

Outsourced SDR teams operate as an extension of the client’s internal sales team, working closely with them to align goals, strategies, and messaging. The SDRs employed by the service providers are trained professionals who possess the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively engage with potential customers and identify qualified leads.

This outsourcing model offers businesses the flexibility to scale their sales efforts as per their requirements without the need for significant investments in recruiting, training, and infrastructure. It also allows companies to tap into the expertise of specialized providers who bring industry insights, best practices, and innovative approaches to lead generation and sales development.

Overall, outsourced SDR teams provide businesses with a strategic partnership that optimizes their sales processes, expands their customer base, and drives revenue growth. In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the various aspects of outsourced SDR teams, including evaluating providers, implementing and managing the teams, and strategies for overcoming challenges and maximizing success.

What Are Sales Development Representatives (SDRs)?

Sales Development Representatives (SDRs) are integral members of a company’s sales team responsible for generating leads and initiating the sales cycle. They play a crucial role in the sales process by identifying and qualifying potential customers, nurturing leads, and setting appointments for the sales team. SDRs are often the first point of contact between a business and its potential customers.

The primary objective of SDRs is to create a pipeline of qualified leads for the sales team to pursue. They employ various strategies such as cold calling, email outreach, social media engagement, and targeted prospecting to identify potential customers who have a genuine interest in the company’s products or services. SDRs focus on building relationships, understanding customer pain points, and educating prospects about the value they can gain from the company’s offerings.

The responsibilities of SDRs extend beyond lead generation. They also conduct thorough research on prospects, gather relevant information, and qualify leads based on predetermined criteria. By engaging in meaningful conversations and asking probing questions, SDRs assess the level of interest and fit of a lead within the target market. This qualification process ensures that only the most promising leads are passed on to the sales team, allowing them to focus their efforts on high-value opportunities.

SDRs also play a vital role in nurturing leads that are not yet ready to make a purchasing decision. Through consistent and personalized communication, SDRs build rapport with prospects, provide valuable information, and address any concerns or objections. By nurturing leads over time, SDRs increase the likelihood of converting them into customers when they are ready to make a buying decision.

In summary, SDRs are instrumental in the lead generation process, acting as the bridge between marketing and sales. Their responsibilities include prospecting, qualifying leads, nurturing relationships, and setting appointments for the sales team. By leveraging the expertise of SDRs, businesses can streamline their sales processes, increase efficiency, and drive revenue growth.

Explaining Outsourcing in the Context of SDR Teams

Outsourcing is a business practice in which companies delegate specific functions or processes to external service providers, allowing them to focus on their core competencies. In the context of SDR teams, outsourcing refers to partnering with specialized agencies or companies to handle the sales development representative functions of a business.

When businesses choose to outsource their SDR teams, they entrust the responsibility of lead generation, prospecting, and initial customer engagement to these external providers. The outsourced SDR teams work remotely but operate as an extension of the client organization’s internal sales team. This strategic partnership allows businesses to leverage the expertise and infrastructure of the outsourced teams while ensuring seamless collaboration and alignment with their sales objectives.

The benefits of outsourcing SDR teams are numerous. Firstly, outsourcing eliminates the need for businesses to invest in establishing an in-house SDR team, which requires significant resources, time, and effort. Instead, by partnering with specialized providers, businesses gain access to a ready-made team of skilled professionals who are experienced in lead generation and sales development.

Outsourcing SDR teams also offers scalability and flexibility. Businesses can scale their sales efforts as per their requirements, increasing or decreasing the size of the outsourced team based on the volume of leads or sales targets. This flexibility allows companies to optimize their resources, avoid overstaffing during slower periods, and quickly ramp up their activities during peak demand.

Additionally, outsourcing SDR teams provides businesses with access to industry expertise and best practices. The specialized providers bring in-depth knowledge of various markets, industries, and customer segments. They stay updated with the latest trends, technologies, and strategies in lead generation, enabling businesses to benefit from their insights and innovative approaches.

Moreover, outsourcing SDR teams can be a cost-effective solution for businesses. Instead of investing in recruiting, training, and providing infrastructure for an in-house team, businesses can leverage the existing resources and infrastructure of the outsourced provider. This eliminates the need for upfront investments and ongoing overhead expenses, resulting in significant cost savings.

Overall, outsourcing SDR teams allows businesses to focus on their core competencies and strategic priorities while benefiting from the expertise, scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness provided by specialized providers. In the following sections, we will explore the reasons to consider outsourcing SDR teams in more detail and highlight some popular providers in the market.

Reasons to Consider Outsourcing SDR Teams

Outsourcing SDR teams offers several compelling reasons for businesses to consider this strategic approach to their sales development efforts. Let’s explore some of the key reasons why outsourcing has become an attractive option for businesses:

Cost-Effectiveness

One of the primary reasons businesses opt to outsource their SDR teams is the cost-effectiveness it provides. Establishing and maintaining an in-house SDR team can be a significant investment, involving costs such as recruitment, training, salaries, benefits, and infrastructure. By outsourcing, businesses can avoid these upfront and ongoing costs, as they can leverage the existing resources and infrastructure of the outsourced provider. This allows businesses to allocate their financial resources more strategically and focus on other core areas of the business.

Access to Expertise

Outsourcing SDR teams provides businesses with access to a pool of experienced professionals who specialize in lead generation and sales development. These specialized providers have a deep understanding of industry best practices, market trends, and effective strategies for engaging with potential customers. Leveraging the expertise of outsourced SDR teams allows businesses to benefit from the accumulated knowledge and insights of these professionals, enabling them to optimize their lead generation processes and improve conversion rates.

Scalability and Flexibility

Outsourcing SDR teams offers businesses the flexibility to scale their sales efforts as needed. During periods of increased demand, such as product launches, promotional campaigns, or seasonal peaks, businesses can easily expand their outsourced team to handle the higher volume of leads. Conversely, during slower periods, businesses have the flexibility to reduce the size of the outsourced team, avoiding the costs associated with maintaining a larger team when the workload is lower. This scalability and flexibility allow businesses to align their resources with market demand, ensuring optimal efficiency and cost management.

Focus on Core Competencies

Outsourcing SDR teams allows businesses to focus on their core competencies and strategic priorities. By delegating the lead generation and sales development functions to specialized providers, businesses can redirect their internal resources and energy towards core activities such as product development, customer service, and relationship management. This strategic focus on core competencies enhances overall business performance and enables businesses to gain a competitive edge in the market.

Reduced Time to Market

Outsourcing SDR teams can significantly decrease the time it takes to establish and ramp up a sales development function. With specialized providers, businesses gain access to a ready-made team of trained professionals who can start generating leads and engaging with potential customers immediately. This eliminates the need for lengthy recruitment and training processes, allowing businesses to accelerate their time to market and capitalize on sales opportunities promptly.

In summary, the reasons to consider outsourcing SDR teams include cost-effectiveness, access to expertise, scalability and flexibility, the ability to focus on core competencies, and reduced time to market. By leveraging the strengths and resources of specialized providers, businesses can enhance their sales development efforts, drive revenue growth, and gain a competitive advantage in the market. In the next sections, we will delve deeper into evaluating outsourced SDR teams and choosing the right provider for your business.

Popular Outsourced SDR Team Service Providers

When considering outsourcing SDR teams, it’s crucial to partner with a reputable and reliable service provider that aligns with your business goals and values. To help you navigate the options available, let’s take a closer look at some of the popular outsourced SDR team service providers in the market:

1. ABC Sales Solutions

ABC Sales Solutions is a leading provider of outsourced SDR teams, offering comprehensive solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of businesses. With a proven track record in generating high-quality leads, ABC Sales Solutions has a team of skilled professionals who excel in prospecting, appointment setting, and pipeline management. They leverage advanced technologies and data-driven strategies to deliver exceptional results for their clients. ABC Sales Solutions prides itself on its commitment to delivering personalized and effective sales development support.

2. XYZ Outsourcing Services

XYZ Outsourcing Services is known for its expertise in lead qualification and nurturing. Their dedicated SDR teams possess a deep understanding of various industries and markets. Leveraging their industry insights and best practices, XYZ Outsourcing Services excels in identifying and engaging with qualified prospects. They utilize advanced communication tools and data analytics to streamline lead generation processes and drive conversion rates. With a focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences, XYZ Outsourcing Services is committed to helping businesses achieve their sales goals.

3. DEF Sales Support

DEF Sales Support specializes in providing outsourced SDR teams for businesses across various industries. Their comprehensive suite of services includes lead generation, market research, and database management. With a customer-centric approach, DEF Sales Support ensures that their SDR teams are well-versed in the specific needs and pain points of their clients’ target market. They leverage their expertise to deliver personalized and tailored sales development strategies, resulting in increased customer engagement and higher conversion rates. DEF Sales Support is dedicated to helping businesses optimize their sales processes and achieve sustainable growth.

When evaluating outsourced SDR team service providers, it is essential to consider factors such as reputation, track record, industry expertise, communication capabilities, and data security measures. Conducting thorough research, requesting proposals, and interviewing potential providers can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your business objectives.

In the next sections, we will explore the evaluation process of outsourced SDR teams in more detail, providing insights into the key factors to consider and steps to choose the right provider for your business.

Evaluating Outsourced SDR Teams

Choosing the right outsourced SDR team service provider is a critical decision that can significantly impact the success of your sales development efforts. To ensure a successful partnership, it is essential to evaluate potential providers based on key factors that align with your business goals and objectives. Let’s explore the factors to consider and steps to choose the right outsourced SDR team provider:

Key Factors to Consider Before Outsourcing SDR Teams

  1. Company Goals and Objectives: Evaluate how the potential outsourced SDR team provider aligns with your company’s goals and objectives. Consider if their expertise, industry knowledge, and track record are compatible with your business requirements.
  2. Industry and Target Market Expertise: Assess if the provider has experience working within your industry and targeting your specific customer segments. Understanding your industry dynamics and customer needs is crucial for effective lead generation and sales development.
  3. Reputation and Track Record: Research the reputation and track record of potential providers. Look for client testimonials, case studies, and success stories to gauge their past performance and client satisfaction levels.
  4. Communication and Collaboration Capabilities: Effective communication and collaboration are vital for a successful partnership. Ensure that the provider has efficient communication channels, responsive account management, and a collaborative approach to working with clients.
  5. Data Security and Confidentiality Measures: Protecting your data and maintaining confidentiality is crucial. Assess the provider’s data security protocols, including data handling, storage, and compliance with relevant regulations.

Steps to Choose the Right Outsourced SDR Team Provider

  1. Conducting a Needs Assessment: Identify your specific requirements, sales goals, and the scope of work you expect from the outsourced SDR team. This will help you communicate your needs clearly and evaluate providers accordingly.
  2. Researching and Shortlisting Potential Providers: Explore the market to identify potential outsourced SDR team providers. Consider factors such as reputation, industry expertise, client reviews, and the range of services offered. Shortlist providers that align closely with your business requirements.
  3. Requesting Proposals and Evaluating Offers: Request detailed proposals from the shortlisted providers. Assess their proposed approach, strategies, team structure, and pricing models. Evaluate how well their proposals address your specific needs and align with your sales goals.
  4. Interviewing and Assessing Provider’s Team: Conduct interviews with key representatives from the potential providers. Evaluate their communication skills, industry knowledge, and understanding of your business requirements. Ask for references and seek feedback from their existing clients, if possible.
  5. Making the Final Selection: Based on the evaluation of proposals, interviews, and client feedback, make an informed decision on the outsourced SDR team provider that best fits your business requirements. Consider factors such as expertise, reputation, communication capabilities, and alignment with your goals.

By following these steps and considering the key factors, you can select an outsourced SDR team provider that will effectively support your sales development efforts. The right provider will align with your business goals, possess industry expertise, and deliver results that drive revenue growth.

In the next sections, we will explore the implementation and management of outsourced SDR teams, including onboarding, communication strategies, performance monitoring, and strategies for maximizing success.

Implementing and Managing Outsourced SDR Teams

Once you have chosen the right outsourced SDR team provider, it is essential to effectively implement and manage the partnership to ensure success. This section will explore key aspects of implementing and managing outsourced SDR teams, including onboarding and integration, establishing effective communication channels, and monitoring and evaluating team performance.

Onboarding and Integration Process

To kickstart the partnership with the outsourced SDR team provider, a seamless onboarding and integration process is crucial. Here are some key steps to consider:

  1. Aligning Goals and Expectations: Clearly define and communicate your sales goals, performance expectations, and desired outcomes to the outsourced SDR team provider. Ensure that both parties have a shared understanding of the scope of work, target market, and key metrics for success.
  2. Providing Access to Necessary Tools and Systems: Grant the outsourced team access to the necessary tools, software, CRM systems, and databases required to perform their tasks effectively. This ensures smooth collaboration and integration with your internal sales processes.
  3. Training on Company Culture and Branding: Familiarize the outsourced team with your company culture, values, and branding guidelines. Provide training on your products or services, target audience, value proposition, and any unique selling points to ensure a consistent representation of your brand in all customer interactions.

Establishing Effective Communication Channels

Maintaining effective communication channels is vital for a successful partnership with outsourced SDR teams. Consider the following strategies:

  1. Regular Meetings and Check-ins: Schedule regular meetings with the outsourced SDR team to discuss progress, address challenges, and provide feedback. These meetings can be weekly or bi-weekly, depending on the needs of your business. Regular check-ins help to maintain alignment and foster open communication.
  2. Utilizing Collaboration Tools and Software: Leverage collaboration tools and software to facilitate seamless communication and collaboration between your internal team and the outsourced SDR team. Project management tools, messaging platforms, and video conferencing tools can enhance communication and streamline workflows.
  3. Setting Clear Performance Metrics and Reporting: Define clear performance metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) for the outsourced SDR team. Regularly review and analyze performance data to assess progress towards sales goals. Establish a reporting mechanism that ensures transparency and facilitates data-driven decision-making.

Monitoring and Evaluating Outsourced SDR Team Performance

Monitoring and evaluating the performance of the outsourced SDR team is essential to identify areas for improvement and maximize success. Consider the following strategies:

  1. Tracking Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Define and track relevant KPIs to measure the success of the outsourced SDR team. These may include metrics such as lead conversion rates, appointment setting rates, pipeline growth, or revenue generated. Regularly review these metrics to assess performance and identify areas for optimization.
  2. Conducting Performance Reviews and Feedback Sessions: Schedule periodic performance reviews and feedback sessions with the outsourced SDR team. Provide constructive feedback, recognize achievements, and offer suggestions for improvement. These sessions contribute to ongoing professional development and strengthen the partnership.
  3. Implementing Continuous Improvement Strategies: Encourage a culture of continuous improvement by implementing strategies to optimize the outsourced SDR team’s performance. This may involve refining processes, providing additional training or resources, or experimenting with new lead generation techniques. Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of these strategies and iterate as needed.

By effectively implementing and managing the partnership with the outsourced SDR team provider, businesses can maximize the value derived from the collaboration. Open communication, clear goal alignment, and regular performance monitoring are key elements in ensuring a successful and productive relationship.

In the next section, we will explore potential challenges of outsourcing SDR teams and strategies to overcome them, enabling businesses to navigate potential obstacles and maximize the benefits of this strategic approach.

Overcoming Challenges and Maximizing Success with Outsourced SDR Teams

While outsourcing SDR teams offers numerous benefits, it is essential to acknowledge and address the potential challenges that may arise. By understanding these challenges and implementing effective strategies, businesses can overcome obstacles and maximize the success of their outsourced SDR team partnerships.

Potential Challenges of Outsourcing SDR Teams

  1. Language and Cultural Barriers: When working with an outsourced SDR team from a different location, language and cultural differences can pose challenges in effective communication and understanding. Miscommunication or misunderstandings may occur, impacting the quality of customer interactions. It is crucial to establish clear communication channels, provide language training if necessary, and foster cultural exchange to bridge these gaps.
  2. Time Zone Differences: Time zone differences can affect collaboration and real-time communication between your internal team and the outsourced SDR team. Scheduling meetings and maintaining a responsive communication flow may require coordination and flexibility from both parties. Implementing technology solutions such as shared calendars and project management tools can help overcome these challenges.
  3. Maintaining Consistent Messaging and Branding: Ensuring consistent messaging and branding across the outsourced SDR team and your internal team is vital for building a strong and unified brand image. Differences in approaches or understanding of brand values may lead to inconsistencies in customer interactions. Clear guidelines, ongoing training, and regular communication can help align messaging and maintain brand consistency.
  4. Ensuring Data Security and Compliance: Outsourcing SDR teams involves sharing sensitive customer data and requires adherence to data security and privacy regulations. It is crucial to establish robust data security measures, including data encryption, secure communication channels, and compliance with relevant regulations such as GDPR or CCPA. Regular audits and assessments of the provider’s data security protocols are essential.

Strategies for Overcoming Challenges

  1. Effective Communication and Collaboration Strategies: Foster open and transparent communication channels between your internal team and the outsourced SDR team. Encourage regular feedback and create opportunities for both teams to collaborate and share best practices. Utilize technology solutions such as video conferencing, instant messaging, and project management tools to facilitate real-time communication and collaboration.
  2. Implementing Training and Cultural Exchange Programs: Provide comprehensive training to the outsourced SDR team on your company’s culture, values, products, and services. This ensures a clear understanding of your brand and helps align their approach with your internal team. Encourage cultural exchange programs where members from both teams can learn from each other’s perspectives and build stronger relationships.
  3. Utilizing Technology Solutions for Remote Teams: Leverage technology tools to overcome challenges posed by time zone differences and facilitate collaboration. Implement project management software, shared calendars, and communication platforms that allow for seamless interaction and information sharing. This ensures smooth coordination between your internal team and the outsourced SDR team, despite geographic boundaries.

By implementing these strategies and addressing potential challenges, businesses can overcome barriers to success and maximize the benefits of outsourcing SDR teams. By fostering effective communication, aligning messaging and branding, and ensuring data security, businesses can create a strong and productive partnership with their outsourced SDR team.

In the final section, we will provide tips for maximizing success with outsourced SDR teams, offering recommendations to businesses considering this strategic approach.

Tips for Maximizing Success with Outsourced SDR Teams

To maximize the success of your partnership with outsourced SDR teams and achieve optimal results, consider implementing the following tips:

  1. Establish a Strong Partnership with the Provider: Build a collaborative and trusting relationship with your outsourced SDR team provider. Regularly communicate your goals, expectations, and any changes in your business strategy. Maintain an open line of communication to address concerns, provide feedback, and seek their input. By fostering a strong partnership, you can align efforts, optimize performance, and drive success.
  2. Provide Ongoing Training and Development Opportunities: Continuous learning and development are key to enhancing the skills and knowledge of the outsourced SDR team. Offer training sessions, workshops, and resources to keep them updated with industry trends, sales techniques, and your products or services. Encourage their professional growth and provide opportunities for career advancement within your organization.
  3. Regularly Assess and Adjust Strategies: Regularly evaluate the performance of the outsourced SDR team and assess the effectiveness of strategies implemented. Analyze key performance metrics, feedback from customers and internal stakeholders, and market trends. Use these insights to identify areas for improvement, adjust strategies, and optimize the outsourced team’s performance.
  4. Celebrate Achievements and Recognize Team Efforts: Acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of the outsourced SDR team. Recognize their contributions to the success of your sales efforts. This can be done through regular feedback, performance incentives, or public recognition within your organization. By fostering a culture of appreciation and recognition, you motivate the outsourced team to excel in their performance.

By implementing these tips, you can enhance the effectiveness and productivity of your outsourced SDR team. Remember that successful outsourcing requires active involvement, ongoing communication, and a collaborative mindset. With the right approach, outsourced SDR teams can become valuable assets in driving your sales success.

In conclusion, outsourcing SDR teams offers numerous benefits such as cost-effectiveness, access to expertise, scalability, and the ability to focus on core competencies. By carefully evaluating potential providers, implementing effective communication and management strategies, and addressing potential challenges, businesses can unlock the full potential of outsourced SDR teams. With a strong partnership, ongoing development, and a focus on continuous improvement, businesses can maximize success and achieve their sales goals.

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