Business Analytics

Database providers continuously strive to streamline the research process, so it’s worth your time to check the databases' Help links to see if any changes have been made to the search functions.  Before you even begin searching a database, consider these steps for creating a list of relevant words and terms:

• Try to state your information need in a sentence, question, or phrase and identify the key terms:

                What impact does advertising have on children’s diets?

• Think of other words that could describe your topic.  General information from encyclopedias, for example, would be helpful.   Search the Library catalog for your topic and encyclopedias (i.e. ethics AND encyclopedias). You could also consult a thesaurus.

• Use Boolean operators* (AND, OR) to combine synonymous terms:

**Start with these basic steps to business research **

1. Is your company-
   • Publicly traded or privately owned?  You'll find more information on publicly-traded companies' requirements to file statements with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
   • Look for a ticker symbol (unique identifier for a stock).  Google company name, search the database Mergent Online.   See Find the Ticker.
2. Try the following databases to locate a company profile: Business Insights: Essentials, Mergent Online,
3. Check the company website for news and publications links, but review this information critically. The company's website is a marketing tool, typically used to showcase company accomplishments.
4. Search library business databases for current articles, legal action, and product news. 
5. Company financials.  Annual reports are useful, but remember, these documents are directed to shareholders and typically emphasize positive achievements.  Look for form 10-K documents and interim financial statements filed with the SEC for more objective information.  Find them on EDGAR and in library databases (Mergent Online or Business Insights: Essentials, for example).
6. Identify company strategies, usually stated in "Item 1. Business" of the 10-K.  ​​
7. Locate industry profiles and identify your company's competitors (IBISWorld).

See Where to find it in a Database, a chart indicates which databases to search for specific types of information (industry reports, articles, SWOT analysis, etc).