Library resources provide access to high quality information that is otherwise behind a paywall. Try these databases for information related to your company and industry.
Business Research Sources
Some of the resources used for business research will be familiar to you and some may be new. Take a moment to learn more about the types of information sources you can use to learn more about your company and indutry.
Industry Reports
What they are: Comprehensive analyses of specific industries, often published by consulting firms or market research companies
Use in research:
Understand market size, growth trends, and key players
Support your analysis of industry dynamics or competitive forces
Trade Publications
What they are: Magazines or newsletters produced by are for professionals in a specific industry
Use in research:
Gather expert opinions, practitioner insights, and real-world applications
Especially useful for smaller or more niche industries
Share Holder Reports
What they are: Official documents (e.g., annual reports, 10-K filings) released by publicly traded companies to inform investors
Use in research:
Analyze financial performance, strategic goals, risk factors and sustainability efforts
Extract data for case studies or financial modeling.
Local/National News
What it is: Reports from media outlets on current events, trends, and business developments
Use in research:
Highlight recent developments, controversies, or regulatory changes
Especially important for smaller and local companies that may not be covered in other published sources
Academic Journals
What it is: Peer-reviewed articles written by scholars and experts
Use in research:
Provide credible theories, models, and findings to support your research framework
Especially important for smaller and local companies that may not be covered in other published sources
Govt. Agencies
What they are: Data and reports from official agencies (e.g., USDA, EPA, Dept. of Transportation)
Use in research:
Access reliable statistics, regulations, and economic indicators
Identify agencies that impact your industry to find data and legal information
