Many organisations seek to reduce their cost base and in this context the term refers to the nature and the sum of all the inputs to the business. For example, value-based airlines seek a lower cost base than full-service airlines and to do this they typically employ fewer staff, on more flexible contracts, operate in cheaper locations and specify standards that not only reduce the cost of their operations, but allow more flexibility in the event of an economic downturn. This affects procurement practices as they may outsource some processes to create a more flexible cost base and also lease rather than buy aircraft for the same reason. See also Cost Leadership.