Getting Down to BusinessAn Introduction to Business Research

“Not only was I able to find the information that I needed, the different business

research sources opened my eyes to what was really going on in the business world

and how everything tied together.

What was even a bigger asset to me however was the effect it had on how I now

perceive the classes that I am taking. I am not just learning theories and terminology

but can see where what I am learning is used and how it ties into every other class I

am taking.

The business research class has taken me to another level of understanding and

insight in my studies and the way the business world works in general.”

- Fall 2010 Business Certificate Student

Getting Down to Business

Jeff Graveline, JD, MLISReference Librarian for Business, Mervyn H. Sterne Library

An Introduction to Business Research

Mechanics of the Program

• 8 fifty-five minute sessions • Must complete 6 of 8 sessions

• Hands-on research practice

• Series of weekly in-class questions

• Offered during Spring & Fall semesters

You’ll learn how design an effective research plan

You’ll learn to identifysources to meet your

information needs

You’ll get hands-on research experience

What can you expect?

There are effective ways to useWikipedia & Google

Jimmy Wales on Wikipedia:

“It is pretty good, but you have to be careful with it. It's good enough knowledge, depending on what your purpose is.”

wikiPros

wikiCons

wikiTips

- Use it as a starting point

- Look at the references & notes

- Explore further readings

• Use quotes for phrases

• Use Google Scholar for scholarly materials

• Look at the site’s domain

• Use the advanced search option

Beginning your research

• Identify the research need

• Develop research question (if necessary)• Is it predefined or open ended?• Should be clear and concise

• List all pieces of information you need

• Brainstorm• Search terms

• Using research question, develop a synonym list• Sources

• List all possible places to look• Supplement throughout research process

Beginning your research

• Set parameters• Date needed• Amount & timeliness of info• Create realistic timeline

• Begin your research• Break into manageable bits• Chunk related items together• Tackle small portions at a time

• Maintain research log • Creates research trail• Allows you to find info later• Helps with citation

Common Types of Research

• Company research

• Industry research

• Domestic & foreign markets

• Marketing data

• Demographics

• Financial research

Sources of Business Info

• Books

• Periodicals, journals & trade pubs

• Company web sites• SEC filings, financials, corporate governance disclosures, press releases

• Federal, state & local data

• Stock trading data

• Research & market reports

Sources of Business Info

• Rankings & market share

• Trade associations

• Proprietary databases

• Indexes, directories & annual pubs

• Blogs, podcasts & social media

• NGOs, international orgs

Keys to remember

• Begin by clearly articulating your research need(s)

• Research planning saves time

• Work with manageable chunks • Knowing general & specific sources gives you a starting point

Thank you for attending.

Jeff GravelineMervyn H. Sterne Library

jgraveli@uab.edu(205) 934-6364