2005 Q1 Questions and Answers
Q. I’m working on a market analysis within a specific industry. What are some of the commonly used resources to compile information about a market including size, growth trends, etc.?
A. When secondary research is combined with primary research it can be very useful in gaining a better understanding of a specific market when considering entry of a new product or service or for competitive analysis purposes. The information that is essential in a comprehensive market analysis is generally available through several publications and on line resources. A market analysis is typically separated into several categories including economic, social, political, technological and industry specific. Some of the sources of information that we have found useful in our analysis of markets include…
- Statistical Abstract of United States
- Survey of Manufacturers
- The Conference Board
- Federal Reserve Bulletin
- Economic Indicators annual report
- Marketing Economic Guide
- Department of Commerce
- Applied Science and Technology Index
- Concentration Ratios in Manufacturing
- Robert Morris Associates Industry Ratios
- Input-Output Survey
- Monthly Labor Review (productivity ratios)
- Dun and Bradstreet
- Federal Trade Commission
- Bureau of Economic Analysis
- Industry Trade associations
- Business periodicals