China LED Display Manufacturers 2025: 65% Buyers Choose Wrong, Delaying 40% Projects | Full Factory Guide

Subtitle: How We Build High Quality LED Screens Step by Step – From SMT to OEM Delivery

A 2025 survey of 200+ overseas buyers found a stark reality: 65% faced "quality mismatches with samples," "3+ week delays," or "unmet customization needs" in their first LED display purchase from China—costing 30% in overbudget and even losing critical business opportunities.

The core goal of this guide isn’t to sell products, but to cut through the noise of "Chinese LED manufacturers." We’ll break down the real manufacturing process: from chip sourcing and SMT assembly to 72-hour aging tests and logistics, showing you "how to judge a factory’s reliability via production details" and "avoid pitfalls in custom projects."

But here’s a question worth pondering: Why do some "Made in China" LED screens pass strict EU/US certifications and run flawlessly for 5 years, while others develop dead pixels or color mismatch within 3 months? The answer likely lies in the production steps you haven’t noticed.

Table of Contents

1. Why Global Buyers Choose LED Displays Made in China

1.1 China’s Leading Position in the LED Industry

1.2 Cost Efficiency Meets Manufacturing Expertise

1.3 Massive Supply Chain: Materials, Manpower, and Speed

1.4 Is “Made in China” Reliable? Data Speaks

2. Inside Our LED Display Factory: Step-by-Step Manufacturing Walkthrough

2.1 SMT Workshop, Assembly Zones & Aging Area

2.2 What Makes a Reliable Factory: Certifications, Equipment, Team

2.3 How LED Modules Are Made: SMT, Bonding, Testing

2.4 [Video] Factory Tour: How We Build Your Screens

3. Quality Control: How We Ensure Long-Term Reliability

3.1 Material Inspection: LEDs, ICs, Power, Cabinets

3.2 Full-Process QC: Board → Module → Aging → Final QA

4. OEM / Customization Services for Your Market

4.1 Our 8-Step OEM Process: From Inquiry to Delivery

4.2 Logo Printing, Cabinet Design, System Integration

4.3 Applications: AV Projects, Rental, DOOH, Retail, Education

4.4 Engineering Your Ideas into Real Projects

5. What Are Our LED Display Product Lines

6. How Do Our LED Display Services Ensure a Smooth Project Experience?

7. From Order to Delivery: Process Transparency

7.1 Order Timeline & Production Milestones

7.2 Communication Best Practices for Overseas Clients

7.3 Logistics Options: EXW, FOB, CIF, DDP

7.4 Sample Orders, Batch Production, Final Packaging

8. Real Projects, Real Feedback: What Our Clients Say

9. FAQs About LED Display Manufacturing in China

Q1: Production Time

Q2: Certifications

Q3: MOQ & Samples

Q4: OEM Customization

Q5: After-sales & Warranty

Q6: Logo Printing / System Compatibility

10 Get in Touch: Free Quote or Factory Tour

10.1 Schedule a Video Factory Tour

10.2 Submit Your Project Specs

10.3 Download Factory Profile & Brochure

1. Why Global Buyers Choose LED Displays Made in China

A world class LED display doesn't just come from advanced equipment, it’s born from an ecosystem of scale, speed, and skill. If you're considering LED display sourcing from China, you’re not alone. Thousands of global buyers from AV system integrators to billboard operators are already benefiting from the manufacturing powerhouse that is China.

1.1 China’s Leading Position in the LED Industry

China produces over 80% of the world’s LED displays, with Guangdong, Shanghai, Heibei province, among them, Guangdong(Especially Shenzhen city) is the biggest led display manufacturer base. These provice are home to world renowned factories, dense component ecosystems, and experienced technical teams.

Tips: Did you know? Some of the world’s largest events from World Cup fan zones to Times Square billboards are powered by LED displays made in China.

1.2 Cost Efficiency Meets Manufacturing Expertise

Chinese LED factories aren’t just cheaper, they’re faster, flexible, and technically capable. With advanced SMT lines, custom PCB services, and rapid prototyping abilities, experienced factories can respond to OEM/ODM projects within days.

· Lower labor costs → but with higher efficiency

· Flexible small-batch production → ideal for pilot projects

· Familiar with international projects → better communication, fewer surprises

1.3 Massive Supply Chain: Materials, Manpower, and Speed

What makes China stand out is the speed to market. Need ICs, power supplies, cabinets, or control systems? Everything is within 30–50 km of the factory. That’s why even tight deadlines like “5,000 sqm delivered in 20 days" become possible here.

Need urgent orders for a stadium or government project? Chinese factories are built for that.

1.4 Is Made in China Reliable? Here’s What the Data Says

Some buyers still ask: “Can I trust LED screens made in China?” That’s a fair concern and the answer is yes, if you choose the right manufacturer.

(1) Market Data Highlights:

· Over 75% of LED Display exports to the US and EU come from certified Chinese factories

· 90% of international rental screen fleets use led screens made in China

· Many Tier 1 brands (Europe/US) source from OEMs in Shenzhen

“What global clients really want is consistency. One reliable factory partner, and zero surprises.”

Ready to discover what China LED manufacturing can offer your project?

 [Get a Free Quote] or [Book a Video Factory Tour]

Read More：

· Why Choose Us for Your LED Display Project

· How to choose and check LED Display quality

2. Inside Our LED Display Factory: How We Build LED Displays Step by Step

When you choose a Chinese LED manufacturer, you’re not just buying a product, you’re choosing a production system, a supply chain, and a team. So, what does a real LED factory look like from the inside? Let’s walk you through it, step by step.

2.1 From Floor to Ceiling: A Factory Walkthrough

Our led display production base covers over 5,000㎡, divided into functional zones for Raw Material Storage, SMT, Module assembly, Inspection and aging test, Cabinet assemble, Full led display debugging, Waterproof Testing, package and delivery. Every detail from anti-static flooring to LED-friendly lighting is engineered to support stable, high yield production.

(1) LED Display Raw Material Storage

(2) LED Display production base- SMT Shop

(3) Module assembly

(4) Inspection and aging test

(5) Cabinet assemble

(6) Full led display debugging

(7) Waterproof Testing

(8) Package and Delivery

2.2 What equipment do you use to manufacturer led display?

In the production process of LED displays, each piece of equipment functions like a precise gear, and only through their coordinated operation can high - quality products be manufactured. From the pre - treatment of chips to the assembly of the entire screen, advanced production equipment not only determines production efficiency but also directly affects the performance and lifespan of the display. The following will provide you with a detailed introduction to the core equipment for LED display production and their key functions.

(1) LED Lamp Baking Oven, Removes moisture from LED lamps to prevent cracking during reflow soldering and ensure reliable bonding

(2) Automatic SMT Line, Places components like ICs, resistors, and capacitors onto the PCB with high precision for LED modules.

(3) Reflow Soldering Oven, Heats solder paste to permanently bond components to the PCB for stable circuit performance.

(4) Automatic Spray Coating Machine, Applies conformal coating to protect PCBs from moisture, dust, and corrosion.

(5) LED Module Bottom Case Automatic Assembly Machine, Automatically assembles the module housing and PCB for consistency and speed

(6) Automatic Glue Filling Machine, Dispenses waterproof and UV-resistant glue to seal modules, ideal for outdoor use

(7) Infrared Curing Furnace, Cures glue rapidly using infrared heat to ensure strong sealing and faster production

2.3 Inside a Real Manufacturing Line: LED Display are manufactured step by step

Want to know how your LED screen is really made? Here, we break down each core step, from tiny SMD chips to massive cabinets, so you understand exactly what you're getting.

(1) LED Lamp Baking, to ensure functioning and prevent dead lights

(2) SMT placement, the automatic placement machine precisely places light beads,s, resistors, and other components on the PCB.

(3) Reflow soldering, the PCB board passes through a high-temperature reflow furnace to achieve electrical.

(4) Semi-finished led module test, to Ensure functionality before proceeding to the next stage

(5) Coat with three proof paint, to prevent water, dust and corrosion, short circuit and electric leakage, enhance shock resistance and weather, resistance

(6) Install the bottom case for PCB, to prevent leakage during the subsequent black glue injection process

(7) Glue Filling (Outdoor Modules), For outdoor LED modules, a waterproof glue is applied to protect the surface

(8) Cover mast, to improve the contrast and protect LED.

(9) Led module manufacturing is ready , some modules need to install handles and quick locks for fast maintenance

(10) Module testing: Individual modules are lit for testing 24-48 hours, for dead lights, color deviation, and other issues.

(11) Cabinet assembly, modules are installed in the cabinet, and the power supplies, fan, control system are connected with cables

(12) Aging test, according to the order, splice the cabinets of each order into a complete led display for 72 hours aging test of full brightness, stability and color consistency.

(13) Debagging, after the screen is installed, it must be debugged before it can play normally. 

(14) Final quality inspection: Each unit is scanned, and a quality inspection report output.

(15) Packaging, qualified led display will be packaged for delivery. We will package the led display according to the requirest

2.4 Factory Video Tour: See It for Yourself

Want to see how your screen is made before placing the order? We offer live video tours, real-time walkthroughs with our team to showcase the machines, materials, and quality control steps.

How led display are made video

Want to see our production line live? Schedule a factory video tour now.

[Book a Video Factory Tour] or [Request LED Display Brochure]

3. Quality Control You Can Trust: How We Ensure Long-Term Reliability

When you're investing in LED displays, you’re not just buying a screen, you're buying long-term performance. Here's how we make sure every screen that leaves our factory earns your trust.

3.1 Raw Material Inspection: LEDs, ICs, Power supplies, Cables, PCB, Cabinets

High quality products start with strict control of raw materials. We conduct batch - by - batch inspections on the following core materials:

（1）LED Lamp Beads: Uniformly sourced from first - tier brands (e.g., Nationstar, Kinglight), with batch - wise detection of brightness and color coordinates.

（2）Driver ICs: Using international brands such as ICN and MBI as standard, avoiding low - cost substitute components.

（3）Power Supplies: Employing renowned industry brands like Meanwell, G - energy, Lianchuang, and Rongdian to ensure stable power supply.

（4）PCB Circuit Boards: Optimizing PCB design to guarantee uniform brightness across the entire screen and excellent heat dissipation.

（5）Cabinet Structural Components: Measuring tolerances, inspecting strength, flatness, and anti - corrosion treatment.

Cheap components = short lifespan. We never compromise.

3.2 On-Board Testing, Module Testing, Aging, and Final QA

Fourth-level quality inspection: Ensure that each module and full led display is qualified for delivery

We will inspect throughout the entire production process, mainly including:

(1) Board-level testing: Functional testing and voltage/current testing of the circuit board after component placement

(2) Module testing: Color consistency, dead pixels, and brightness differences checked one by one after assembly

(3) Aging test: Continuous lighting for 72 hours, simulating high-load operation, to screen for hidden faults

(4) Shipment final QA: Appearance, function, and stability are subject to final acceptance after the entire screen is assembled

For you, this means: No surprises What you approve in video inspection is what you get on site.

Still unsure if the quality will hold up? Let us send you a sample module to test.

[Apply for a Free Sample Module] or [Talk to Our Teams]

More helpful read：

· How We Control LED Display Quality

4. Customization & OEM Services: Tailored to Your Market Needs

If you're looking for more than just standard screens — you're not alone.

80% of our global clients need tailored solutions that match their unique projects, branding, or installation environments.

4.1 From Drawing to Delivery: OEM Process Overview

Our OEM process is designed to minimize your effort and maximize results:

Based on years of OEM experience, we have created a standardized custom process:

(1) Demand Communication (1–3 days): Define dimensions installation environment, maintenance methods, system requirements, brightness, etc.

(2) Design Proposal (24 Hours): A complete quotation sheet (including product parameter introduction, size,, technology, product images, price, delivery date, etc.)

(3) After PO confirmation, the company's internal process takes 1 day

(4) Custom LED solution by internal engineering team (2-3 days): Drawing, making BOM, etc.

(5) Raw material purchase (2-12 days): Purchase according to order and warehouse stock situation

(6) Sample confirmation (2–3 days): Sample module mold, engineer do the first sample test and confirmation

(7) Mass production (7–2 days): Enter SMT, wave soldering, brush three-proof paint, test, assembly, aging, QC out of the factory and other processes

(8) Brand packaging &; delivery (1–2 days): Custom packaging, arrange transportation

OEM cooperation does not require complex communication, we provide English drawings, online conference communication to quickly implement

4.2 Logo Printing, Cabinet Design, System Integration

We go beyond led screens, we build your brand into the product.

· Customized logo printing: Logo can be printed on the box and packaging

· Customized cabinet structure: Custom iron cabinet/aluminum cabinet/diecasting cabinet, front maintenance/rear maintenance, curved cabinet, etc.

· System integration compatibility: Support synchronous/asynchronous control card, built-in audio//cooling solution

Want to launch your own LED product line? We’ll help you build from scratch.

4.3 Serving AV Projects, Rental, DOOH, and More

Our customization capabilities are widely used across industries:

（1）AV system integrators: conference room, command center, auditorium large screen system, flexible interface, seamless splicing

（2）Stage and rental customers: quick structure   anti-collision and shock-resistant box   high refresh rate display

（3）Advertising operators/DOOH customers: high-brightness outdoor screen   waterproof and weatherresistant design   easy maintenance modules

（4）Education/enterprise customers: All-in-One integrated machine   simple operation interface   multi-system compatibility

No matter your industry, we can make the led screen fit your environment, not the other way around.

4.4 Your Ideas, Engineered in Our Factory

Every great project starts with an idea, even if it's on a napkin.

Tell us what you want, and our engineers will bring it to life.

Customer Story:

"We sent them the CAD drawings of the theater and within two weeks they had completed the design of the LED wall, and even simulated the stage lighting test, which greatly saved our project cost and time." — South Africa Stage Design Company

Have a custom project in mind? Let our engineers review it for free. [Get OEM Quotation Now]

5. What Are Our LED Display Product Lines

We provide a full range of LED display products manufactured in-house, including:

5.1 Rental LED Display

Designed for temporary installations and event scenarios, our rental LED displays combine rapid deployment with superior visual performance. Featuring quick-lock cabinet structures, anti-collision frames, and high refresh rate panels, these displays ensure seamless splicing and vibrant imagery for concerts, exhibitions, stage shows, and more. Engineered for durability and easy maintenance, they minimize setup time while maximizing impact.

Explore our full range of rental LED display solutions to find the perfect fit for your next event.

5.2 Outdoor Fixed LED Display

Built to withstand harsh environmental conditions, our outdoor fixed LED displays deliver stunning visual performance in any weather. Equipped with IP65-rated waterproof cabinets, high-brightness panels (up to 5,000 nits), and anti-UV coatings, these displays ensure clear visibility under direct sunlight while resisting rain, dust, and temperature fluctuations. Ideal for billboards, commercial facades, and public venues, they combine durable construction with energy-efficient design.

Discover our complete outdoor fixed LED display range to elevate your outdoor advertising and digital signage projects.

5.3 Indoor LED Video Wall

Engineered for immersive visual experiences, our indoor LED video walls redefine display excellence in corporate spaces, control rooms, and entertainment venues. Featuring ultra-slim bezels, seamless splicing technology, and fine-pitch pixel configurations (down to 0.9mm), these walls deliver razor-sharp imagery and vibrant colors with minimal visual gaps. Integrated with low-noise cooling systems and energy-saving designs, they ensure long-lasting performance in 24/7 operation environments.

Explore our diverse indoor LED video wall collection to find the perfect solution for your next digital installation project.

5.4 Poster LED Display & All-in-One Conference LED Display

(1) Poster LED Display

Designed for eye-catching digital signage, our Poster LED Displays combine sleek aesthetics with intuitive operation. Featuring slim profiles, high-definition panels, and built-in media players, these displays effortlessly showcase advertisements, promotions, and dynamic content in retail stores, airports, and public areas. With easy content management via WiFi or USB, they transform static spaces into interactive visual hubs.

(2) All in One Conference LED Display

Revolutionizing meeting spaces, our All in One Conference LED Displays integrate display, touchscreen, whiteboarding, and video conferencing functionalities in a single unit. Equipped with 4K ultra-clear resolution, anti-glare screens, and multi-device connectivity, they enable seamless collaboration through features like real-time annotation, screen sharing, and remote participation. Ideal for modern offices and educational institutions, they eliminate the need for fragmented AV setups.

Dive into our comprehensive LED display product series for smart city terminal, and discover how our solutions can elevate your next project’s visual impact.

5.5 XR Virtual Studio LED Display

Engineered for next-generation virtual production, our XR (Extended Reality) Virtual Studio LED Displays bridge the gap between physical and digital worlds. Featuring ultra-high refresh rates (up to 7680Hz), cinematic color accuracy and low latency performance, these displays create immersive backdrops for film shoots, live broadcasts, and virtual events. The curved or flat panel configurations, combined with advanced motion tracking integration, enable real-time environment rendering that synchronizes with camera movements, eliminating the need for green screens and enhancing production efficiency.

Explore our rental focused XR LED display series to unlock limitless creative possibilities for your virtual studio projects.

6. How Do Our LED Display Services Ensure a Smooth Project Experience?

From planning to after-sales, our comprehensive service system ensures your LED display project is executed efficiently, reliably, and with peace of mind.

6.1 Project Management

We coordinate and manage every phase of your LED display project, from concept to completion to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery.

6.2 Structural & Mechanical Design

According to your led display requirements, custom designed mounting structures, frames, and enclosures ensure safe and stable installation in any environment.

6.3  Installation, Software Setup & System Integration

We provide expert installation and integrate LED screens with AV systems, control platforms, and networks, ensuring seamless functionality.

6.4 Creative Content Design & Production

We create high-quality videos, animations, and visuals tailored for LED display performance if needed

6.5 On-Site Technical Support

Technicians are available for on-site support during critical moments, such as live events or system launches.

6.6 Remote Monitoring & Diagnostics

Real-time remote monitoring systems allow fast issue detection and resolution, minimizing downtime

6.7 Spare Parts Management

We maintain a strategic spare parts inventory to enable quick replacements and reduce operational disruptions.

6.8 After-Sales Support & Lifetime Maintenance

From warranty to upgrades and emergency repairs, we offer long-term service for stable performance.

Ready to start your LED display project or need tailored support?

Explore our full-service workflow and see how we simplify every step.

Read the full LED Display Service Guide

Talk to Our Team

7. From Order to Delivery: Transparent Process, On-Time Shipment

And for many overseas customers, the first time working with a Chinese factory can often be filled with uncertainties: unclear processes, difficult lead-time control, low communication...Here, from the moment you place an order, you’ll have a clear, controllable, and traceable workflow.

7.1 What Happens After Your PO: Timeline & Milestones

Once we receive your Purchase Order (PO), here’s what happens:

(1) First, we'll confirm the order, finalize requirements like specs and payment terms, and set up the production schedule, this usually takes 1–2 working days.

(2) Next, we'll prepare all documents: logo designs, BOM lists, technical drawings, cabinet structures, system setups, and packaging plans, this stage takes 1–3 days.

(3) Then we'll purchase raw materials based on the BOM, including PCBs, LED lights, ICs, kits, power supplies, cabinets, and control systems, it takes 2–10 days, depending on each material's lead time.

(4) During production, we’ll go through SMT pasting, module semi-finished production, assembly, testing, cabinet integration, 72-hour aging, and final inspection, this takes 10–25 days, depending on how customized the product is.

(5) Finally, we’ll pack the order in cartons, plywood cases, or strong flight cases (packaging varies by product) and arrange shipment.

7.2 Communication Best Practices for Global Orders

We understand the challenges of time zones, language, and technical details. That’s why we provide:

· English sales technical engineer: follow up on sales progress, and provide technical after-sales service by engineers

· Online project group management: use WhatsAppWeChat/Teams to build a project group

· Reporting: provide the required information to customers in the form of text, pictures/videos, and assist customers in handling-sales issues

· 24-hour response mechanism: no matter which country, we ensure a quick response

 “No more email chains. Their WeChat group help me solve problem timely.” — Customer say

7.3 Logistics Support: Sea, Air, DDP Options

You can choose from various shipping methods based on your budget and urgency:

We support multiple shipping methods to flexibly match your delivery time and cost budget:

· EXW: Customer arranges own pick-up and transportation

· FOB/CIF: Suitable for bulk orders, lowest cost, 20-40 days to port

· Air Express: Suitable for samples or urgent projects 3–10 days delivery

· DDP Door to Door Service: Can include customs clearance and tax directly to your warehouse, reducing your operational

7.4 Sample Orders, Batch Production & Final Packaging

We welcome both sample orders and volume production:

We place the same importance on small orders as we do on large orders, you can operate as follows:

· Sample orders (1–5㎡ To confirm product quality, installation method, system compatibility

· Small batch orders (5–50㎡): Suitable for project pilot, bidding purposes

· Mass production orders (0㎡ and above): Access to the standardization process, full inspection, custom packaging, unified shipping

We will:

· Assign a project manager to each order· Shoot packaging videos/photos for filing

· Provide after sales manuals and technical documents

Ready to ship LED displays to your country? Let’s plan your delivery.  [Request Lead Time for Your Project]

Read More：

· LED Display Shipping & Packaging Tips

· How to Import LED Screens from China

8. Real Projects, Real Trust: What Our Global Clients Say

8.1 Outdoor led display installed on column

8.2 Outdoor led display installed on wall

8.3 Indoor led display wall mounted

8.4 Collaboration That Lasts Beyond One Project

We are not a "one-and-done" manufacturer，we aim to be your long-term partner. Many of our clients have worked with us for 3–10+ years, growing their business alongside ours.

Many of our clients started with a first sample order and have grown into stable monthly shipments, building brands and growing together with us.

Here’s why they choose us:

· Stable production → Ensures projects never get disrupted

· Consistent quality → Drives high customer repurchase rates

· Rapid response → Problems get solved anytime, every time

· Customization capabilities → Helps clients quickly differentiate and capture markets

Do you want to know if we’ve done a project like yours? Just ask.

[Request a Case Similar to Yours] or [Show Me More Project Photos]

Helpful Reads: 

· Explore Our Case Studies

· Outdoor DOOH Billboard Case in Africa

9. FAQs About LED Display Manufacturing in China

When purchasing an LED display, you may have many questions. Below, we have organized the questions that customers are most concerned about to help you quickly understand the core information

Q1: How long does LED display production take in China?

A1: Typical production time depends on order size and customization.

· Small batch/sample orders usually take 7–10 days.

· Bulk orders (100㎡+) often require 3–4 weeks including testing and packaging.

· Custom designs may add 1–2 weeks for R&D and tooling.

Q2: What certifications should LED displays have for EU and US markets?

A2: Key certifications:

· CE marking for EU compliance.

· RoHS to confirm hazardous substances are restricted.

· FCC certification for US radio frequency standards.

· UL listing for electrical safety in the US market.

Q3: Can I get a sample before placing a mass order?

A3: Yes, we offer sample orders.

· Samples usually take 7–10 days to produce.

· We recommend sample testing to verify quality and fit your application.

· Sample costs are typically refundable upon bulk order.

Q4: What is the MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) for LED screens?

No MOQ limited, sample order, small order, middle size order, big order, both fine

Q5: How is the warranty and after-sales service handled?

A5: We provide:

· 1-2 year warranty on all LED displays, extend warranty time can be under talk

· Free technical support via email and video call.

· Fast shipment of replacement modules and parts.

· Optional on-site service for if customer needed (additional cost).

Q6: How do you handle custom logo printing and cabinet design?

A6: We support OEM customization:

· Provide your logo files and design requirements.

· Our design team creates 3D mockups for approval.

· Once confirmed, we proceed with printing and production.

 Have more questions? Contact us anytime for professional answers.

 [Contact Our Support Team] or [Request a Free Consultation]

More helpful read：

· LED Display Warranty & Maintenance Guide

10. Get in Touch: Request a Factory Tour or Free Quote

Are you ready to learn more? Want to visit our factory in person and witness our manufacturing capabilities? Or do you already have project requirements and want to an accurate quote? We are always ready to serve you!

10.1 Want to See Our Factory Live? Schedule a Video Call

We provide online video factory visit service, which allows you to fully understand the production line, equipment, and quality control process.

· You can see the real environment and listen to the engineer's introduction of production details.

· Book a video visit to grasp the details of cooperation easily without leaving home.

10.2 Tell Us Your Project — We’ll Build It

Whether it's a standard model or a complex customization, we have a professional team to support every step of the way.

· Send us your specifications and budget requirements, and we'll tailor a solution for you.

· Get a free quote, quick response, to help your project move forward smoothly

10.3 Download Factory Profile & Company Brochure

Click the Contact button in the lower right corner to download our product catalog.

Take immediate action to embark on a high-quality LED display cooperation journey!

· [Get a Free Quote] or [Book a Video Factory Tour] or [Talk to Our Engineers]

More helpful read:

· Why Choose Us for Your LED Display Needs