Table:
| ($ in millions) |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| For the year ended December 31: | 2018* | 2017* | Yr.-to-Yr. Percent/ Margin Change |
| Global Technology Services |  |  |  |
| External total gross profit | $10,035 | $10,022 | 0.1% |
| External total gross profit margin | 34.4% | 34.3% | 0.1 pts |
| Pre-tax income | $ 1,781 | $ 2,618 | (32.0)% |
| Pre-tax margin | 5.9% | 8.8% | (2.8) pts |
Paragraphs:
* Recast to reflect segment changes.
The 2018 GTS gross profit margin was essentially flat year to year and reflected benefits from productivity initiatives, including automation of delivery processes infused with AI and global workforce optimization.
Pre-tax income performance reflected continued investment to expand go-to-market capabilities and develop new offerings for the hybrid market.
Question:
What are the benefits reflected from gross profit margin?
Answer: The 2018 GTS gross profit margin was essentially flat year to year and reflected benefits from productivity initiatives