The addition of latest member establishments to the Huge Sky Convention is a course of influencing the league’s aggressive panorama, geographic footprint, and general stability. For instance, including a college with sturdy athletic applications and a considerable endowment can considerably elevate the convention’s profile.
Enlarging the convention can improve income streams by elevated media offers and ticket gross sales. It additionally presents alternatives for broader recruiting bases and probably stronger athletic performances throughout numerous sports activities. Traditionally, such actions have been pushed by elements corresponding to bettering competitiveness, addressing geographic gaps, and guaranteeing long-term monetary viability.
The next dialogue will tackle the motivations behind convention progress, potential candidate establishments, and the projected affect of any potential modifications on the present members and the general construction of the group.
1. Geographic Footprint
The geographic footprint performs an important position in selections surrounding Huge Sky Convention growth. Proximity between member establishments immediately impacts journey prices and logistical complexities related to athletic competitors. Enlarging the convention with colleges positioned in geographically distant areas can create monetary burdens for all members as a result of elevated transportation bills. Conversely, the inclusion of establishments in contiguous or close by states can mitigate these prices and foster regional rivalries, probably enhancing fan engagement and media curiosity. For instance, if the convention thought of a faculty in a state geographically remoted from the present membership, the logistical and monetary implications would require cautious consideration.
The present footprint influences growth technique. A want to solidify a presence in a selected area or entry a selected media market might incentivize focusing on establishments inside that space. Sustaining a cohesive geographic cluster simplifies scheduling, reduces journey fatigue for student-athletes, and might create extra pure rivalries, contributing to a stronger convention identification. Take into account the hypothetical state of affairs the place the Huge Sky Convention goals to ascertain a stronger presence within the Pacific Northwest; it could logically prioritize candidate establishments in Washington or Oregon.
Finally, the geographical facet is a key determinant in evaluating potential member establishments. Balancing the need for progress with the sensible realities of journey and regional alignment is important for the continued stability and success of the convention. A well-defined geographical technique helps fiscal duty, promotes aggressive steadiness, and enhances the general expertise for student-athletes and followers alike.
2. Monetary Implications
The monetary implications of Huge Sky Convention growth symbolize a important consideration for each the convention itself and potential member establishments. Evaluating the financial affect of including or shedding members is paramount to making sure the continued stability and prosperity of the league.
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Income Distribution Fashions
The convention’s income distribution mannequin dictates how funds generated by media rights, ticket gross sales, and sponsorships are allotted amongst member colleges. Enlargement necessitates a re-evaluation of this mannequin. Including a brand new member initially dilutes the share of income for current members until new income streams sufficiently offset this dilution. For instance, a faculty with a considerable media market or a extremely profitable athletic program may herald extra income, benefiting all establishments. Conversely, a faculty with restricted media publicity would possibly pressure the present monetary framework.
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Elevated Operational Prices
Enlargement invariably results in elevated operational prices for each the convention and its member establishments. These prices embrace journey bills for athletic groups, administrative overhead related to managing a bigger group, and potential capital expenditures for upgrading amenities to satisfy convention requirements. Take into account, as an illustration, the extra prices related to soccer scheduling and journey if a brand new member establishment is positioned a major distance from current members. These prices have to be rigorously weighed in opposition to potential income features.
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Media Rights Negotiations
The addition of latest member establishments can affect the convention’s leverage in media rights negotiations. A bigger convention footprint, significantly if it consists of entry to new tv markets, can enhance the attractiveness of the convention to media companions. Nonetheless, the worth of those extra markets have to be weighed in opposition to the price of incorporating the brand new establishment. For instance, the addition of a faculty in a significant metropolitan space may considerably improve the worth of the convention’s media rights agreements, whereas the addition of a faculty in a smaller market may need a negligible affect.
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Funding in Amenities and Packages
Potential growth candidates should usually reveal a dedication to investing of their athletic amenities and applications to satisfy the requirements of the Huge Sky Convention. This funding might be substantial, requiring important capital outlays for stadium upgrades, teaching employees enhancements, and tutorial help companies for student-athletes. An absence of funding in these areas can render a potential member establishment unattractive, even when it provides different strategic benefits. For instance, a faculty in search of membership would possibly have to renovate its soccer stadium to satisfy minimal seating capability necessities, a probably important monetary endeavor.
In conclusion, the monetary implications of Huge Sky Convention growth are multifaceted and require cautious consideration. Balancing the potential for elevated income with the inevitable rise in operational prices is important for sustaining the monetary well being of the convention and guaranteeing the long-term success of its member establishments. A radical monetary evaluation, contemplating income distribution, operational bills, media rights, and institutional funding, is important to any growth choice.
3. Aggressive Steadiness
Aggressive steadiness inside the Huge Sky Convention is a important issue influencing selections concerning growth. Sustaining a stage taking part in subject the place a major variety of groups have a sensible probability of competing for championships is important for sustained fan curiosity, media consideration, and general convention well being. Enlargement can both improve or detract from this steadiness relying on the establishments thought of and the methods employed.
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Power of New Members
The athletic efficiency and assets of potential member establishments are major concerns. Including a program considerably stronger than the present convention common may create a dominant pressure, probably diminishing the aggressive alternatives for different members. Conversely, including a program that constantly struggles may result in predictable outcomes and a perceived weakening of the convention general. For instance, if a college with a nationally ranked soccer program joined the Huge Sky, current groups would possibly face elevated problem competing for the convention title. Subsequently, cautious evaluation of the aggressive affect of potential additions is important.
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Scheduling and Useful resource Allocation
Enlargement necessitates changes to convention scheduling and useful resource allocation fashions. New scheduling codecs have to be designed to make sure equitable alternatives for all member establishments to compete in opposition to each other. Equally, income distribution fashions should think about the potential affect on aggressive steadiness. If a disproportionate share of income is allotted to bigger or extra profitable applications, it may exacerbate current aggressive disparities. As an illustration, a revenue-sharing mannequin that closely favors establishments with bigger soccer stadiums would possibly drawback smaller colleges with much less revenue-generating capability.
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Division Realignment
In instances of serious growth, the Huge Sky Convention would possibly think about divisional realignment to keep up aggressive steadiness. Separating applications into divisions primarily based on elements corresponding to historic efficiency, geographic location, or institutional assets can create extra balanced competitors inside every division. This method can present alternatives for a wider vary of groups to contend for divisional titles and qualify for postseason play. An instance could be creating separate divisions for colleges with and with out Division I FBS-level soccer applications.
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Influence on Current Rivalries
Enlargement can disrupt current rivalries and create new ones, influencing the aggressive panorama. The addition of a brand new establishment might dilute the depth of established rivalries, significantly if it geographically separates conventional opponents. Conversely, growth can foster new rivalries primarily based on geographic proximity, shared institutional traits, or head-to-head competitors. Analyzing the potential affect on current rivalries and the creation of latest ones is essential for understanding the general aggressive implications of growth. For instance, including a faculty that could be a pure geographic rival to an current member may generate important curiosity and improve the convention’s general aggressive profile.
The affect on aggressive steadiness is a crucial ingredient in any growth choice. A balanced method requires cautious consideration of the athletic power of potential additions, equitable scheduling and useful resource allocation, and potential division realignment. These actions can result in an inclusive and fascinating expertise for Huge Sky Convention establishments and athletes.
4. Media Publicity
Media publicity is a pivotal issue influencing the viability and attractiveness of Huge Sky Convention growth. Elevated visibility can translate to enhanced income, heightened model recognition, and improved recruitment alternatives for member establishments. Subsequently, potential growth candidates are rigorously evaluated for his or her capability to enhance the convention’s media footprint.
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Tv Market Measurement
The dimensions and attain of the tv market by which a potential member establishment is positioned is a major consideration. Including a faculty in a significant metropolitan space can considerably develop the convention’s viewership, resulting in extra profitable media rights offers. Conversely, a faculty in a smaller media market might provide restricted advantages by way of tv publicity. For instance, the addition of a college in a significant metropolis like Seattle or Portland would possible generate considerably extra tv income than a faculty in a smaller, much less populated area.
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Current Media Relationships
The present media relationships of a possible member establishment also can affect its attractiveness as an growth candidate. A college with established partnerships with regional or nationwide sports activities networks can instantly improve the convention’s media presence. Moreover, a faculty with a powerful observe document of producing compelling sports activities content material is extra more likely to appeal to media consideration. Take into account a college with a historical past of manufacturing nationally televised video games or a program with a devoted fan base that constantly attracts sturdy tv rankings.
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Digital Media Presence
Within the trendy media panorama, a powerful digital presence is more and more essential. Potential member establishments are evaluated for his or her capability to generate participating content material for social media platforms and streaming companies. A college with a sturdy social media following, a well-designed web site, and a dedication to producing high-quality digital video can improve the convention’s general media footprint. For instance, a college that constantly produces viral spotlight reels or boasts a big and lively social media neighborhood could be a helpful asset.
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Nationwide Model Recognition
The nationwide model recognition of a possible member establishment can considerably affect its worth by way of media publicity. A college with a powerful tutorial repute, a historical past of athletic success, or a recognizable mascot can appeal to media consideration past its fast geographic area. This nationwide model recognition can translate to elevated viewership for televised video games and heightened curiosity within the convention as an entire. Take into account a college with a protracted and storied athletic custom or a extensively revered tutorial program.
These aspects collectively contribute to the attractiveness of potential candidates. Rising tv market measurement, leveraging current media relationships, cultivating a powerful digital media presence, and possessing nationwide model recognition function a key ingredient within the decision-making course of in including member to the Huge Sky Convention.
5. Educational Alignment
Educational alignment represents a basic criterion within the analysis of potential member establishments throughout Huge Sky Convention growth. Shared tutorial values and requirements between current and potential members are essential for sustaining institutional integrity and guaranteeing the general compatibility of the convention. An absence of educational alignment can result in conflicts in institutional priorities and undermine the convention’s mission.
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Accreditation Requirements
Adherence to acknowledged accreditation requirements is a prerequisite for membership. Establishments should reveal a dedication to tutorial high quality by accreditation by respected regional or nationwide accrediting our bodies. Discrepancies in accreditation standing can sign differing ranges of educational rigor and create challenges in transferring credit between establishments. Take into account, as an illustration, a state of affairs the place a potential member’s major tutorial applications lack accreditation from acknowledged organizations, probably elevating issues concerning the high quality of schooling supplied.
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Educational Fame and Rankings
The educational repute and rankings of potential member establishments are rigorously thought of. Whereas not the only determinant, a powerful tutorial repute enhances the general status of the convention and attracts academically gifted student-athletes. Establishments with constantly excessive rankings in respected publications can contribute to the convention’s tutorial profile. A college identified for its sturdy engineering or science applications, for instance, brings extra tutorial worth to the Huge Sky Convention.
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Analysis Focus and Funding
The analysis focus and ranges of analysis funding at potential member establishments are related elements. Establishments with strong analysis applications and important analysis funding reveal a dedication to scholarly inquiry and contribute to the mental atmosphere of the convention. Moreover, analysis collaborations between member establishments can improve the general analysis output of the convention. For instance, a college with a give attention to environmental science analysis would possibly align effectively with the Huge Sky Convention’s geographic emphasis and contribute to collaborative analysis initiatives.
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Pupil-Athlete Educational Assist
The extent of educational help supplied to student-athletes is a important ingredient of educational alignment. Establishments should reveal a dedication to making sure that student-athletes have the assets essential to succeed academically. This consists of offering entry to tutoring companies, tutorial advising, and different help applications designed to advertise tutorial achievement. An absence of satisfactory tutorial help can undermine the educational success of student-athletes and mirror poorly on the convention. As an illustration, a possible member establishment ought to have devoted tutorial advisors aware of NCAA eligibility necessities and the calls for of balancing athletics and teachers.
These standards of educational alignment are intently intertwined with the long-term objectives and values of the Huge Sky Convention. Consideration have to be given to establishments that reveal dedication to excellence and compatibility throughout numerous parts. Finally, establishments that embrace each sturdy athletics and tutorial integrity improve the convention and enhance its viability.
6. Rivalry Creation
Rivalry creation constitutes a major, albeit usually secondary, consideration in Huge Sky Convention growth. Whereas elements corresponding to monetary stability and geographic cohesion usually take priority, the potential to ascertain or improve aggressive rivalries can contribute considerably to the general worth and attraction of the convention. These rivalries generate elevated fan engagement, media curiosity, and income alternatives.
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Geographic Proximity
Geographic proximity is a major driver of rivalry creation. Establishments positioned inside shut geographic vary of current members usually possess a pure basis for aggressive rigidity. Shared recruiting swimming pools, comparable regional demographics, and ease of journey contribute to heightened stakes in athletic contests. For instance, if the Huge Sky Convention have been to contemplate growth within the Pacific Northwest, establishments positioned in shut proximity to present members like Jap Washington College or Idaho State College would possible foster fast and intense rivalries.
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Historic Competitors
Prior historical past of competitors, even outdoors of the Huge Sky Convention, can inform the potential for future rivalries. Establishments which have engaged in important aggressive battles in different conferences or in non-conference matchups possess a pre-existing narrative that may be leveraged to generate fan curiosity. As an illustration, two universities that constantly compete for regional championships in a number of sports activities, no matter their present convention affiliations, would possible develop a powerful rivalry upon becoming a member of the Huge Sky Convention.
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Related Institutional Profiles
Related institutional profiles, together with comparable enrollment sizes, tutorial missions, and athletic aspirations, can contribute to the event of rivalries. Establishments that understand themselves as competing for a similar pool of scholars, school, and athletic expertise usually domesticate a way of aggressive rigidity. Take into account two universities with comparable tutorial applications and athletic budgets striving to attain regional dominance in particular sports activities; these establishments usually tend to develop a heated rivalry.
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Deliberate Advertising and marketing and Promotion
Deliberate advertising and promotional efforts by the convention and its member establishments can actively domesticate and amplify nascent rivalries. Strategically scheduled video games, focused promoting campaigns, and the creation of devoted rivalry trophies or traditions can all contribute to enhancing the depth and visibility of those aggressive matchups. For instance, the Huge Sky Convention may set up an annual touring trophy awarded to the winner of a soccer recreation between two geographically proximate establishments, thereby formalizing and selling the rivalry.
Finally, whereas not the only determinant, the potential for rivalry creation performs a major position in evaluating growth candidates. By rigorously contemplating elements corresponding to geographic proximity, historic competitors, institutional profiles, and advertising alternatives, the Huge Sky Convention can strategically improve its aggressive panorama and generate elevated worth for its member establishments and fan base.
7. Strategic Positioning
Strategic positioning is intrinsically linked to Huge Sky Convention growth, influencing each the motivations behind growth and the number of potential member establishments. Enlargement selections will not be made in isolation; they’re deliberate maneuvers aimed toward enhancing the convention’s long-term viability, competitiveness, and general affect inside the collegiate athletic panorama. Poorly thought of growth, with no clear strategic rationale, can dilute assets, create logistical challenges, and in the end weaken the convention. For instance, if the Huge Sky Convention sought to reinforce its presence in a selected geographic area to enhance recruiting, that represents strategic positioning. Enlargement is the potential motion taken.
A key ingredient of strategic positioning is figuring out underserved markets or alternatives for progress. This would possibly contain focusing on establishments in areas the place the Huge Sky Convention has restricted publicity, in search of to realize entry to new fan bases and media markets. Such a strategic transfer can elevate the convention’s profile and improve its negotiating energy in future media rights offers. Equally, growth generally is a defensive technique, aimed toward stopping rival conferences from encroaching on the Huge Sky’s territory or poaching its current members. Defending the convention’s present geographic footprint and aggressive benefits is a important facet of strategic positioning. An occasion is actively pursue sturdy regional candidates forward of different convention pursuits.
In abstract, strategic positioning supplies the rationale for Huge Sky Convention growth, guiding the number of potential members and shaping the long-term trajectory of the league. A proactive and well-defined strategic framework is important for guaranteeing that growth efforts strengthen the convention’s general place, slightly than undermining its stability. With no clear strategic goal, growth turns into a dangerous endeavor with probably detrimental penalties. The final word purpose is sustainable progress and a stronger aggressive standing inside the broader context of collegiate athletics.
8. Membership Standards
Membership standards perform as gatekeepers to Huge Sky Convention growth, dictating which establishments are eligible for consideration. These standards will not be arbitrary; they symbolize a codified set of requirements designed to make sure that any new member aligns with the convention’s values, enhances its competitiveness, and contributes to its long-term stability. The rigor and breadth of those standards immediately affect the pool of potential growth candidates and the general strategic path of the convention. As an illustration, stringent monetary necessities would possibly exclude establishments with restricted assets, even when they provide different strategic benefits. Conversely, much less restrictive standards may broaden the pool of candidates however probably compromise the convention’s general requirements.
The appliance of membership standards includes a complete analysis of potential establishments, encompassing elements corresponding to tutorial repute, athletic competitiveness, monetary stability, geographic location, and dedication to NCAA guidelines compliance. This analysis course of usually includes website visits, monetary audits, and in depth interviews with institutional leaders. A potential member establishment should reveal a transparent and sustained dedication to assembly these standards to be thought of for admission. An actual-world instance would possibly contain a college demonstrating sustained athletic competitiveness over a number of seasons to reveal its capability to efficiently compete inside the league.
In abstract, membership standards function an important filter within the growth course of, guaranteeing that any new member strengthens the Huge Sky Convention each on and off the sector. Adherence to those requirements promotes institutional alignment, fosters aggressive steadiness, and contributes to the long-term viability of the league. The continued analysis and refinement of those standards are important for sustaining the convention’s integrity and guiding its strategic progress. The problem lies in balancing the need for growth with the necessity to uphold rigorous requirements, guaranteeing that any new member really enhances the general power and stability of the Huge Sky Convention.
9. Lengthy-Time period Stability
Lengthy-term stability represents a central tenet in concerns of Huge Sky Convention growth. Enlargement selections, if imprudently executed, can jeopardize the convention’s future viability. The addition of member establishments should subsequently contribute to, slightly than detract from, the convention’s sustained success throughout numerous dimensions, together with monetary solvency, aggressive steadiness, and institutional compatibility. As an illustration, a fast growth with out satisfactory monetary vetting of latest members can result in instability if these establishments subsequently battle to satisfy convention monetary obligations.
The number of growth candidates should prioritize establishments exhibiting demonstrated monetary well being, a dedication to sustained athletic competitiveness, and a shared tutorial ethos. An establishment teetering getting ready to monetary insolvency, regardless of possessing engaging media market potential, presents a major danger to the convention’s long-term stability. Equally, an establishment with a historical past of NCAA guidelines violations can injury the convention’s repute and jeopardize its standing inside the broader collegiate athletic panorama. Profitable examples of growth resulting in enhanced stability usually contain establishments with sturdy endowments, confirmed fundraising capabilities, and a demonstrable dedication to tutorial integrity. Establishments assembly these standards have a tendency to strengthen the conferences construction.
Subsequently, attaining long-term stability by measured and strategic growth efforts is essential. Prioritizing institutional power and shared values over short-term features, corresponding to elevated media income, in the end contributes to the Huge Sky Convention’s sustained success. The problem lies in balancing the need for progress with the crucial of preserving institutional integrity and monetary solvency, guaranteeing that the convention stays a viable and aggressive entity for years to return. Diligence in evaluating potential member establishments is crucial.
Often Requested Questions
The next questions tackle widespread inquiries concerning potential additions to the Huge Sky Convention, offering readability on the method and potential impacts.
Query 1: What elements primarily drive Huge Sky Convention growth concerns?
Geographic footprint, monetary implications, aggressive steadiness, media publicity, tutorial alignment, and long-term stability are paramount concerns guiding growth selections.
Query 2: How does the geographic location of a possible member affect growth selections?
Proximity to current members immediately influences journey prices and the feasibility of scheduling. Geographically cohesive growth reduces bills and fosters regional rivalries.
Query 3: What monetary standards are evaluated when contemplating a brand new member?
Income distribution fashions, operational prices, media rights negotiations, and the potential member’s dedication to investing in amenities and applications are completely assessed.
Query 4: How does including a brand new member have an effect on aggressive steadiness inside the convention?
The athletic power of the potential member, changes to scheduling, useful resource allocation fashions, and potential divisional realignment are thought of to keep up a stage taking part in subject.
Query 5: What position does media publicity play in evaluating growth candidates?
Tv market measurement, current media relationships, digital media presence, and nationwide model recognition are essential elements influencing a candidate’s attractiveness.
Query 6: How does the Huge Sky Convention guarantee tutorial alignment with potential new members?
Accreditation requirements, tutorial repute and rankings, analysis focus and funding, and the extent of educational help supplied to student-athletes are rigorously evaluated.
These questions and their solutions spotlight the multifaceted nature of Huge Sky Convention growth, emphasizing the strategic concerns concerned in guaranteeing the convention’s continued success.
This data supplies a basis for understanding the complexities of Huge Sky Convention growth. Additional exploration will tackle potential candidate establishments and future affect.
Navigating Huge Sky Convention Enlargement
Choices concerning additions require cautious and strategic evaluation. The ideas outlined beneath present steering for understanding these essential elements.
Tip 1: Prioritize Geographic Cohesion. Geographic proximity minimizes journey prices, promotes regional rivalries, and enhances scheduling effectivity. Keep away from increasing into areas that create logistical burdens.
Tip 2: Rigorously Consider Monetary Stability. Potential members should reveal monetary well being, together with secure income streams, accountable funds administration, and a dedication to investing in athletic applications.
Tip 3: Assess Aggressive Influence Holistically. Including new members ought to keep or improve aggressive steadiness inside the convention. Consider the potential affect on current rivalries and scheduling fashions.
Tip 4: Take into account Media Market Potential. Search establishments that develop the convention’s media footprint and improve its negotiating energy in media rights offers. Market measurement, current media relationships, and digital presence are essential.
Tip 5: Uphold Educational Requirements. Educational alignment is paramount. Prioritize establishments that adhere to acknowledged accreditation requirements, reveal a dedication to analysis, and supply strong help for student-athletes.
Tip 6: Analyze Lengthy-Time period Stability. Consider the potential member’s long-term dedication to the convention and its capability to contribute to its general stability. Assess their monetary well being, governance construction, and adherence to NCAA rules.
The following tips function a information for assessing candidates. A balanced method to progress promotes an inclusive and fascinating expertise for Huge Sky Convention establishments.
The next part supplies a abstract of the important thing ideas in assessing a Huge Sky Convention addition.
Huge Sky Convention Enlargement
The previous evaluation has underscored the multifaceted nature of Huge Sky Convention growth. It has illuminated the important elements geographic footprint, monetary implications, aggressive steadiness, media publicity, tutorial alignment, and long-term stability that have to be meticulously weighed in any growth choice. Neglecting any of those elements dangers undermining the convention’s general power and viability.
Future strategic selections concerning Huge Sky Convention growth will profoundly affect its aggressive standing and monetary well being. A dedication to rigorous analysis, adherence to established membership standards, and a transparent imaginative and prescient for the convention’s future are important to making sure that growth serves as a catalyst for sustained success and stability.
