Non-Clinical Homecare Software

Non-Clinical Homecare Software Market Outlook

The global Non-Clinical Homecare Software Market is projected to reach approximately USD 6.5 billion by 2035, growing at a robust CAGR of around 10.5% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2035. The market is being significantly propelled by the increasing demand for efficient management of homecare services, accelerated adoption of telehealth solutions, and the growing emphasis on enhancing patient outcomes through innovative technology solutions. Additionally, the rise in the aging population and the subsequent increase in chronic illness cases necessitate the need for streamlined home healthcare solutions, further augmenting market growth. The extent of digital transformation in the healthcare sector and rising consumer expectations for personalized care options are also contributing to the burgeoning demand for non-clinical homecare software solutions.

Growth Factor of the Market

Several pivotal factors are fostering growth in the Non-Clinical Homecare Software Market. The growing need for improved operational efficiency among home healthcare providers is leading to a greater reliance on software solutions for administrative tasks such as scheduling, billing, and caregiver management. Moreover, advancements in telehealth technology are enabling healthcare providers to offer remote patient monitoring and consultations, which is becoming increasingly important in today's digital-first environment. Additionally, regulatory changes in healthcare policies are demanding enhanced accountability and reporting from homecare agencies, positioning software as a critical tool for compliance and operational success. The convergence of technology with healthcare, coupled with rising consumer awareness regarding homecare solutions, is poised to drive market expansion further. Furthermore, the integration of AI and machine learning into non-clinical homecare software is optimizing service delivery and enhancing user experiences, thereby presenting robust opportunities for market players.

Key Highlights of the Market

• The market is projected to exhibit a CAGR of approximately 10.5% from 2025 to 2035.
• Increasing adoption of telehealth solutions is a significant driver of market growth.
• The aging global population is expected to demand more homecare services, boosting software needs.
• Partnerships between software providers and home healthcare agencies are on the rise for enhanced offerings.
• AI and machine learning integration is revolutionizing operational efficiency in non-clinical homecare.

By Product Type

Scheduling and Timekeeping Software:

Scheduling and Timekeeping Software serves as a vital component in the non-clinical homecare software market, providing agencies with tools to meticulously manage caregiver schedules and track hours worked. This type of software ensures that the right caregiver is matched with the right patient at the right time, promoting efficiency and reducing the chances of caregiver burnout. Real-time updates and automated scheduling functionalities enhance operational fluidity, allowing agencies to adapt quickly to changing circumstances like caregiver availability or patient needs. Moreover, these solutions typically feature time tracking capabilities, ensuring accurate billing and compliance with labor laws. This software not only streamlines administrative tasks but also contributes significantly to improving patient satisfaction by ensuring timely care delivery.

Billing and Invoicing Software:

Billing and Invoicing Software is crucial for homecare agencies as it automates the revenue cycle management process. With the complexity of healthcare billing, including insurance claims and patient billing, this software helps reduce errors and accelerates payment processes. It allows agencies to generate accurate invoices promptly, monitor billing status, and manage receivables efficiently. Furthermore, the integration of compliance features ensures adherence to regulatory requirements, mitigating the risks associated with billing inaccuracies. By optimizing financial processes, this software not only improves cash flow for homecare agencies but also enhances overall financial health, enabling them to invest in better patient care services.

Caregiver Management Software:

Caregiver Management Software addresses the need for effective management of caregiving staff, encompassing recruitment, training, and performance monitoring. This software enables homecare agencies to maintain a comprehensive database of caregivers, ensuring that they possess the necessary qualifications and skills. Furthermore, it facilitates ongoing training and development, promoting a culture of continuous improvement among caregivers. Performance tracking features allow agencies to assess caregiver effectiveness and patient satisfaction, ensuring high-quality care standards. By streamlining caregiver management processes, this software contributes to enhanced employee satisfaction, which in turn positively impacts patient care outcomes.

Telehealth Software:

Telehealth Software has gained significant traction in the non-clinical homecare software market, especially in light of the recent global health crises. This software enables healthcare providers to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and share health information seamlessly. It helps patients access care from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for physical visits, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility issues or chronic conditions. Telehealth solutions often incorporate features such as video conferencing, appointment scheduling, and secure messaging, thereby enhancing communication between caregivers and patients. The growing acceptance of telehealth as a viable alternative to in-person visits is expected to significantly influence market growth in the coming years.

Communication and Collaboration Tools:

Communication and Collaboration Tools are essential in ensuring that homecare teams work cohesively to deliver the best patient care. These tools facilitate real-time communication among caregivers, patients, and families, allowing for updates on care plans and ensuring everyone involved is on the same page. Features such as shared calendars, messaging platforms, and document sharing capabilities enhance teamwork and foster a collaborative approach to homecare. With the rise of technology-driven interactions, these tools are becoming vital for maintaining high-quality care, as they enable quick responses to patient needs and improve overall caregiving efficiency. By streamlining communication efforts, these tools significantly enhance patient engagement and satisfaction.

By Application

Home Health Agencies:

Home Health Agencies form a significant application segment within the Non-Clinical Homecare Software Market, as they require efficient management of diverse healthcare services provided at home. These agencies benefit from software solutions that streamline patient intake, care coordination, and documentation processes, which are critical for ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations. By utilizing tailored software, home health agencies can manage a variety of services, including skilled nursing, therapy services, and personal care, while maintaining oversight of patient health outcomes. The integration of analytics within these software solutions allows agencies to track performance metrics, thereby optimizing service delivery and enhancing patient satisfaction.

Hospice Care:

Hospice Care is another crucial application within the non-clinical homecare software market that requires specialized software solutions to manage end-of-life care effectively. These solutions facilitate seamless communication between caregivers, medical professionals, and family members, ensuring that patients receive compassionate and coordinated care during their final stages of life. Hospice care software typically includes features such as pain management tracking, medication management, and patient assessments to monitor quality of life. Additionally, these applications support compliance with regulatory requirements in hospice care, allowing organizations to focus on providing dignified support to patients and their families during emotionally challenging times.

Assisted Living Facilities:

Assisted Living Facilities (ALFs) utilize non-clinical homecare software to manage their operations efficiently by overseeing resident care plans, staff schedules, and compliance reporting. These software solutions help ALFs maintain high-quality living environments, ensuring that residents receive personalized care tailored to their individual needs. The ability to track medication schedules and health assessments through software applications enhances the quality of care provided. Additionally, the integration of resident engagement tools within these software packages facilitates social interaction and activity planning, contributing to improved resident satisfaction and wellbeing. The growing adoption of technology in assisted living is expected to bolster the demand for specialized software solutions in this segment.

Retirement Communities:

Retirement Communities leverage non-clinical homecare software to offer residents a range of services while ensuring operational efficiency. These software solutions allow for comprehensive service management, including lifestyle activities, wellness programs, and emergency response systems. By utilizing software tools, retirement communities can enhance the quality of life for residents, ensuring they remain engaged and active. Furthermore, these solutions facilitate communication with families, providing peace of mind regarding residents' healthcare services and activities. The increasing emphasis on creating vibrant communities for seniors is driving the adoption of innovative software solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of retirement living.

Others:

This category encompasses various other applications of non-clinical homecare software, including services for palliative care, rehabilitation care, and more specialized healthcare offerings. Software solutions in this segment are designed to cater to diverse patient needs, enhancing service delivery across different care settings. The increasing number of service providers entering the homecare market is necessitating the adoption of specialized software that can adapt to the unique service offerings of each organization. By utilizing tailored applications, providers can ensure efficient operations, maintain high-quality care standards, and enhance the overall patient experience.

By Distribution Channel

Direct Sales:

Direct Sales is one of the primary distribution channels for non-clinical homecare software, offering vendors the opportunity to establish direct relationships with healthcare providers. This channel allows companies to provide personalized demonstrations, training, and support, ensuring that clients fully understand the software's capabilities and benefits. By engaging directly with customers, vendors can tailor their offerings to meet the specific needs of various healthcare organizations, resulting in a more customized user experience. Additionally, direct sales enable companies to gather valuable feedback and insights from clients, fostering continuous improvement in their products and services.

Distributors:

The Distributor channel plays a significant role in expanding the reach of non-clinical homecare software by connecting vendors with a broader client base. Distributors often have established relationships within the healthcare industry, making it easier for software vendors to penetrate new markets and demographics. By leveraging the distributor’s expertise and networks, vendors can increase their market presence and drive sales more effectively. Furthermore, distributors typically provide additional support services, such as marketing and customer education, which can enhance the overall client experience and drive product adoption.

Online Platforms:

Online Platforms have become increasingly popular as a distribution channel for non-clinical homecare software, offering a convenient and accessible option for healthcare providers. These platforms allow vendors to showcase their products to a global audience, enabling potential customers to demo the software, read reviews, and compare offerings with ease. The rise of e-commerce and digital marketing strategies has made it easier for software companies to reach target markets and generate leads through online channels. Additionally, many online platforms offer subscription models, allowing clients to easily adopt and scale solutions based on their needs without significant upfront investment.

Others:

This category includes additional distribution channels such as value-added resellers, system integrators, and direct partnerships with healthcare organizations. Each of these channels plays a vital role in enhancing the accessibility and adoption of non-clinical homecare software. Partnerships with healthcare consultants or industry experts can also facilitate market entry and improve software positioning. By utilizing a multi-channel approach, vendors can ensure that their solutions are widely available and meet the diverse needs of healthcare providers, ultimately leading to increased market growth.

By Pricing Model

Subscription-based:

The Subscription-based pricing model has emerged as a favored approach in the non-clinical homecare software market, allowing healthcare providers to access software solutions through periodic payments. This model offers flexibility and affordability, making it an attractive option for organizations of varying sizes, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that may have budget constraints. Subscription-based models often include tiered pricing options, enabling clients to select functionalities that suit their specific operational needs. Furthermore, regular updates and support services are typically included in the subscription, ensuring that organizations benefit from the latest features and enhancements without additional costs.

One-time License:

The One-time License pricing model allows healthcare organizations to purchase software outright, making it a suitable option for those preferring a fixed investment rather than ongoing payments. This model can be beneficial for larger organizations that have the capital to make upfront investments and prefer complete ownership of their software solutions. However, this approach may require additional costs for updates, maintenance, and technical support, which can impact long-term budgeting. Despite these considerations, the one-time license model can provide a sense of financial predictability for organizations that wish to budget their software expenditures over the long term.

Freemium:

The Freemium pricing model allows organizations to access basic functionalities of non-clinical homecare software at no cost, with the option to upgrade to a paid version for additional features. This model is particularly appealing for startups and smaller organizations that wish to explore software solutions without a financial commitment. By offering a no-cost entry point, vendors can attract a larger user base, which may later convert to paid subscriptions as organizations grow and require more advanced functionalities. However, the success of the freemium model relies heavily on the software's ability to demonstrate clear value, encouraging users to transition to paid tiers.

Usage-based:

The Usage-based pricing model ties costs to the actual use of the software, charging clients based on the volume of transactions or features they utilize. This model provides flexibility for organizations that may experience fluctuating demand for homecare services. Clients can scale their expenses in line with their operational needs, making it an attractive option for organizations that may experience seasonal variations in service levels. However, this model requires careful tracking and reporting to ensure accurate billing, and it may complicate budgeting processes for some organizations. Overall, the usage-based pricing model aligns costs with resource utilization, presenting a fair and adaptive approach to software expenses.

By Region

In the regional landscape, North America dominates the Non-Clinical Homecare Software Market, accounting for over 40% of the global share. The region's growth is primarily driven by technological advancements, the presence of major software vendors, and a strong emphasis on enhancing homecare services due to the increasing aging population. Additionally, supportive healthcare policies and rising healthcare expenditures contribute to the accelerating demand for software solutions across the region. The North American market is projected to maintain a robust CAGR of around 10.8% during the forecast period, reflecting the sustained investment in healthcare technology and the push for more efficient homecare management solutions.

Europe also represents a substantial portion of the Non-Clinical Homecare Software Market, with a market share of approximately 30%. The region is experiencing growth due to rising healthcare costs, increasing demand for home healthcare services, and regulatory initiatives aimed at improving patient care quality. Countries such as Germany and the UK are leading the adoption of homecare software solutions as providers seek to optimize operations and enhance the patient experience. The European market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of around 9.5% from 2025 to 2035, driven by ongoing investments in health IT infrastructure and the expansion of telehealth services.

Opportunities

The Non-Clinical Homecare Software Market presents numerous opportunities for growth and innovation in the coming years. One of the most significant opportunities lies in the growing demand for telehealth services, particularly post-pandemic, as patients and providers alike recognize the benefits of remote consultations and monitoring. Software companies can capitalize on this trend by developing user-friendly and secure telehealth platforms that enhance patient and provider interactions. Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning can provide valuable insights into patient care trends, allowing homecare agencies to personalize services and improve health outcomes further. As healthcare systems increasingly shift toward value-based care, software solutions that facilitate data collection, analytics, and reporting will be crucial for organizations striving to meet quality benchmarks.

Moreover, the rise of smart home technologies and the Internet of Things (IoT) provides ample opportunities for non-clinical homecare software solutions to expand functionalities. By integrating IoT devices into homecare software, providers can monitor patient health metrics in real-time, enabling proactive interventions and enhancing overall care. Additionally, partnerships between software vendors and healthcare organizations can pave the way for innovative solutions tailored to meet specific industry needs, driving mutual growth. As the market continues to evolve, organizations that prioritize scalability, adaptability, and patient-centered design will be well-positioned to capitalize on emerging trends and expand their market presence.

Threats

While the Non-Clinical Homecare Software Market is poised for growth, several threats could impede its expansion. One significant threat is the increasing concern over data privacy and security, which is paramount given the sensitive nature of health information. With the rise in cyber-attacks targeting healthcare systems, software vendors must prioritize cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive patient data. Failure to do so can result in severe reputational damage, regulatory penalties, and loss of consumer trust. Additionally, the rapid pace of technological advancements means that software providers must continuously innovate to stay competitive. Those unable to keep up with emerging trends risk obsolescence as clients migrate to more advanced solutions offered by competitors. Furthermore, regulatory changes and compliance requirements can pose operational challenges, necessitating ongoing adaptation and resource allocation by software vendors.

Another potential restraining factor for the Non-Clinical Homecare Software Market is the resistance to change among healthcare providers and staff accustomed to traditional methods of care management. Many organizations may hesitate to invest in new software solutions due to fears of high implementation costs, training challenges, or disruptions to existing workflows. Ensuring ease of integration with current systems and providing comprehensive training and support are crucial for overcoming such resistance. Additionally, the diverse needs of the homecare industry mean that one-size-fits-all solutions may not meet the specific requirements of every organization, leading to dissatisfaction and potentially stifling market growth. Addressing these concerns through tailored offerings and robust support mechanisms will be essential for market players looking to capitalize on the opportunities within this sector.

Competitor Outlook

• Epicor Software Corporation
• AlayaCare
• MatrixCare
• ClearCare
• Homecare Homebase
• CuraSource
• CareSmartz360
• TheraNest
• Brightree
• Kareo
• WellSky
• CareCloud
• HealthWyse
• PointClickCare
• MedAxiom

The competitive landscape of the Non-Clinical Homecare Software Market is characterized by the presence of a diverse range of players, each striving to establish a foothold in this rapidly expanding industry. Companies are focusing on innovation, with many investing significantly in research and development to create advanced solutions that cater to the evolving needs of homecare agencies. The competitive dynamics are also influenced by mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, and strategic alliances, as organizations seek to bolster their service offerings and expand their market reach. Many companies are emphasizing the importance of customer service and support to differentiate themselves from competitors, recognizing that the user experience is crucial for customer retention and loyalty.

Among the key players, AlayaCare stands out for its comprehensive cloud-based software designed specifically for home health and community services. The platform offers a suite of functionalities, including electronic health records, scheduling, billing, and telehealth, making it a one-stop solution for homecare providers. MatrixCare, another major contender, specializes in software for both home healthcare and senior living, with a focus on improving operational efficiencies and enhancing patient outcomes through technology. Epicor Software Corporation provides an array of solutions tailored to various verticals, including health and wellness, further expanding its influence in the homecare software market.

Additionally, companies like ClearCare and Homecare Homebase are making significant strides in the market by offering intuitive user interfaces and robust features that streamline administrative tasks for homecare agencies. ClearCare's platform focuses on caregiver scheduling and management, while Homecare Homebase stands out for its billing and documentation capabilities. The commitment to continuous improvement through customer feedback and the integration of cutting-edge technologies like AI and machine learning will be vital for maintaining competitiveness in this fast-evolving market landscape. As the demand for non-clinical homecare software continues to grow, established players, as well as new entrants, will need to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities presented in this dynamic environment.

• 1 Appendix

  • 1.1 List of Tables
  • 1.2 List of Figures

• 2 Introduction

  • 2.1 Market Definition
  • 2.2 Scope of the Report
  • 2.3 Study Assumptions
  • 2.4 Base Currency & Forecast Periods

• 3 Market Dynamics

  • 3.1 Market Growth Factors
  • 3.2 Economic & Global Events
  • 3.3 Innovation Trends
  • 3.4 Supply Chain Analysis

• 4 Consumer Behavior

  • 4.1 Market Trends
  • 4.2 Pricing Analysis
  • 4.3 Buyer Insights

• 5 Key Player Profiles

  • 5.1 Kareo
    • 5.1.1 Business Overview
    • 5.1.2 Products & Services
    • 5.1.3 Financials
    • 5.1.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.1.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.2 WellSky
    • 5.2.1 Business Overview
    • 5.2.2 Products & Services
    • 5.2.3 Financials
    • 5.2.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.2.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.3 MedAxiom
    • 5.3.1 Business Overview
    • 5.3.2 Products & Services
    • 5.3.3 Financials
    • 5.3.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.3.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.4 AlayaCare
    • 5.4.1 Business Overview
    • 5.4.2 Products & Services
    • 5.4.3 Financials
    • 5.4.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.4.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.5 Brightree
    • 5.5.1 Business Overview
    • 5.5.2 Products & Services
    • 5.5.3 Financials
    • 5.5.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.5.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.6 CareCloud
    • 5.6.1 Business Overview
    • 5.6.2 Products & Services
    • 5.6.3 Financials
    • 5.6.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.6.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.7 ClearCare
    • 5.7.1 Business Overview
    • 5.7.2 Products & Services
    • 5.7.3 Financials
    • 5.7.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.7.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.8 TheraNest
    • 5.8.1 Business Overview
    • 5.8.2 Products & Services
    • 5.8.3 Financials
    • 5.8.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.8.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.9 CuraSource
    • 5.9.1 Business Overview
    • 5.9.2 Products & Services
    • 5.9.3 Financials
    • 5.9.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.9.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.10 HealthWyse
    • 5.10.1 Business Overview
    • 5.10.2 Products & Services
    • 5.10.3 Financials
    • 5.10.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.10.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.11 MatrixCare
    • 5.11.1 Business Overview
    • 5.11.2 Products & Services
    • 5.11.3 Financials
    • 5.11.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.11.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.12 CareSmartz360
    • 5.12.1 Business Overview
    • 5.12.2 Products & Services
    • 5.12.3 Financials
    • 5.12.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.12.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.13 PointClickCare
    • 5.13.1 Business Overview
    • 5.13.2 Products & Services
    • 5.13.3 Financials
    • 5.13.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.13.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.14 Homecare Homebase
    • 5.14.1 Business Overview
    • 5.14.2 Products & Services
    • 5.14.3 Financials
    • 5.14.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.14.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.15 Epicor Software Corporation
    • 5.15.1 Business Overview
    • 5.15.2 Products & Services
    • 5.15.3 Financials
    • 5.15.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.15.5 SWOT Analysis

• 6 Market Segmentation

  • 6.1 Non-Clinical Homecare Software Market, By Application
    • 6.1.1 Home Health Agencies
    • 6.1.2 Hospice Care
    • 6.1.3 Assisted Living Facilities
    • 6.1.4 Retirement Communities
    • 6.1.5 Others
  • 6.2 Non-Clinical Homecare Software Market, By Product Type
    • 6.2.1 Scheduling and Timekeeping Software
    • 6.2.2 Billing and Invoicing Software
    • 6.2.3 Caregiver Management Software
    • 6.2.4 Telehealth Software
    • 6.2.5 Communication and Collaboration Tools
  • 6.3 Non-Clinical Homecare Software Market, By Pricing Model
    • 6.3.1 Subscription-based
    • 6.3.2 One-time License
    • 6.3.3 Freemium
    • 6.3.4 Usage-based
  • 6.4 Non-Clinical Homecare Software Market, By Distribution Channel
    • 6.4.1 Direct Sales
    • 6.4.2 Distributors
    • 6.4.3 Online Platforms
    • 6.4.4 Others

• 7 Competitive Analysis

  • 7.1 Key Player Comparison
  • 7.2 Market Share Analysis
  • 7.3 Investment Trends
  • 7.4 SWOT Analysis

• 8 Research Methodology

  • 8.1 Analysis Design
  • 8.2 Research Phases
  • 8.3 Study Timeline

• 9 Future Market Outlook

  • 9.1 Growth Forecast
  • 9.2 Market Evolution

• 10 Geographical Overview

  • 10.1 Europe - Market Analysis
    • 10.1.1 By Country
      • 10.1.1.1 UK
      • 10.1.1.2 France
      • 10.1.1.3 Germany
      • 10.1.1.4 Spain
      • 10.1.1.5 Italy
  • 10.2 Asia Pacific - Market Analysis
    • 10.2.1 By Country
      • 10.2.1.1 India
      • 10.2.1.2 China
      • 10.2.1.3 Japan
      • 10.2.1.4 South Korea
  • 10.3 Latin America - Market Analysis
    • 10.3.1 By Country
      • 10.3.1.1 Brazil
      • 10.3.1.2 Argentina
      • 10.3.1.3 Mexico
  • 10.4 North America - Market Analysis
    • 10.4.1 By Country
      • 10.4.1.1 USA
      • 10.4.1.2 Canada
  • 10.5 Middle East & Africa - Market Analysis
    • 10.5.1 By Country
      • 10.5.1.1 Middle East
      • 10.5.1.2 Africa
  • 10.6 Non-Clinical Homecare Software Market by Region

• 11 Global Economic Factors

  • 11.1 Inflation Impact
  • 11.2 Trade Policies

• 12 Technology & Innovation

  • 12.1 Emerging Technologies
  • 12.2 AI & Digital Trends
  • 12.3 Patent Research

• 13 Investment & Market Growth

  • 13.1 Funding Trends
  • 13.2 Future Market Projections

• 14 Market Overview & Key Insights

  • 14.1 Executive Summary
  • 14.2 Key Trends
  • 14.3 Market Challenges
  • 14.4 Regulatory Landscape

Segments Analyzed in the Report

The global Non-Clinical Homecare Software market is categorized based on

By Product Type

• Scheduling and Timekeeping Software
• Billing and Invoicing Software
• Caregiver Management Software
• Telehealth Software
• Communication and Collaboration Tools

By Application

• Home Health Agencies
• Hospice Care
• Assisted Living Facilities
• Retirement Communities
• Others

By Distribution Channel

• Direct Sales
• Distributors
• Online Platforms
• Others

By Pricing Model

• Subscription-based
• One-time License
• Freemium
• Usage-based

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East & Africa

Key Players

• Epicor Software Corporation
• AlayaCare
• MatrixCare
• ClearCare
• Homecare Homebase
• CuraSource
• CareSmartz360
• TheraNest
• Brightree
• Kareo
• WellSky
• CareCloud
• HealthWyse
• PointClickCare
• MedAxiom