This is a selected guide for research on Industry Information in the McFarlin Library Collection.
Industry research is important for strategic planning. Designing marketing plans, tracking company performance, assessing competitors, and evaluating capital investment all depend on good industry intelligence.
Also information is often not provided exactly as you may be seeking it. Many general resources provide background on a broad level which still contribute to a good business analysis. Once you've spent some time evaluating the industry, related research such as company assessment will be easier.
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Industry data is often reported in broad or aggregated form. Use it to provide background for your analysis.
The following steps will help organize the research process:
Industry norms and business ratios
Industry ratios give an average of costs and expenditures in specific industries. Company strength can be evaluated by comparing the company ratios to the industry standard. Ratios are used for financial analysis of assets, debt, sales, profit, labor, advertising, etc.
Use our Business Databases to find detailed information and articles.
Sources of economic statistics assess the overall direction of the economy. They are typically collections of data from a variety of originating agencies. They may also provide a useful historical pattern.
Economic Report of the President
Industry Information on the Web
Searching for industry information on the Web requires creativity. Possible sources are trade or professional associations related to the industry.
Web site for Census data such as Economic Censuses and Current Industrial Reports.
